What Are Relocation Car Rentals in New Zealand?
Traveling in New Zealand can be pricey, especially for one-way car rentals. But relocation car rentals offer a cheap alternative. Rental companies need to move cars between locations, so instead of paying for transport, they let travelers drive them for a low cost or even free.
You can find relocation car rentals for as little as $1. This is a great way to save money while exploring the country. In fact, studies show that using relocation car rentals can save travelers up to 80% on standard rental costs.
Where to Find Relocation Car Rentals in New Zealand?
You can find relocation car rentals on these websites:
- Transfercar NZ – The biggest site for cheap relocation car rentals.
- Imoova – Offers affordable one-way relocation car rentals in New Zealand and Australia.
- Rental company websites – Brands like Jucy, Apex, and Thrifty also list relocation car rental deals.
Since deals change daily, checking often helps you grab the best relocation car rentals available.
What’s Included in a Relocation Car Rental?
Most relocation car rentals come with basic insurance and a set time limit (e.g., Christchurch to Auckland in three days). Some deals also include:
- Free fuel vouchers
- Discounted ferry tickets
- Upgraded insurance options
However, availability is limited, so being flexible with dates and routes is key to securing the best relocation car rentals.
My Experience: How I Used a Relocation Car Rental to Pick Up My Repaired Vehicle
I needed to get from Christchurch to Picton to pick up my car from the repair shop. A regular one-way rental was too expensive, so I found a $1 relocation car rental on Transfercar NZ—a Hyundai i30 for two days.
Booking and Pick-Up Process
Booking was simple:
- Signed up using a credit card (debit cards don’t work).
- Got a confirmation email from Transfercar and the rental company.
- Picked up the car at Christchurch Airport.
I added basic insurance for $83 (full coverage wasn’t an option). Before driving, I took photos of the car to avoid any damage disputes.
The Drive to Picton
The Hyundai i30 was nearly new, with under 10,000 km on it. It had Apple CarPlay, making navigation easy. After 4.5 hours of driving, I reached Picton and picked up my car. Since I had the relocation car rental for two days, I took a side trip to Blenheim for a solo camping night before returning the car.
Using a relocation car rental felt like getting a business-class upgrade for economy price—same reliable vehicle but for a fraction of the cost!
Returning the Relocation Car Rental
The next day, I returned to Picton and dropped off the rental with no extra charges. Since the deal included a full tank of fuel, I didn’t need to refuel—saving even more money!
For just $1 plus insurance, I saved hundreds of dollars compared to a normal one-way rental!
Are Relocation Car Rentals in New Zealand Worth It?
If you’re flexible with travel plans, relocation car rentals are an amazing budget travel hack. To make the most of them:
✅ Have a credit card ready
✅ Be flexible with dates and destinations
✅ Check insurance options to avoid hidden costs
For budget travelers, relocation car rentals offer a cheap way to explore New Zealand while enjoying a reliable ride.
For even more ways to save on travel, check out our guide to practical budget travel tips.
FAQ: Relocation Car Rentals in New Zealand
Q: Do I have to pay for fuel with a relocation car rental?
A: Some deals include a free tank of fuel, while others require you to return the car with a full tank. Always check the rental conditions.
Q: Can international travelers rent relocation car rentals?
A: Yes! As long as you have a valid driver’s license (some companies may require an International Driving Permit), you can book a relocation car rental.
Q: What happens if I return the car late?
A: Late returns may result in extra fees, so be sure to stick to the agreed drop-off time.
Q: Are relocation car rentals only for cars?
A: No! Some companies also offer relocation deals for campervans and motorhomes.
Q: How often do relocation car rental deals become available?
A: Deals change frequently—sometimes daily. Checking sites like Transfercar NZ regularly increases your chances of finding the best relocation car rentals.
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