New Zealand Self-Drive Information

New Zealand is perfect for a self-drive vacation. It is long and narrow and at any given point, you are no farther than 70 miles from the ocean. The tremendous diversity of its topography is comparable to an entire continent. Within a few hours travel you can go from subtropical beaches to alpine glaciers, from fiords to rainforests and from cosmopolitan cities to great tracts of wilderness. With so much to see and do, we recommend that you allow at least two weeks to explore this extraordinary country.

New Zealand highways (in the main) are of a high standard; main highways are sealed and offer no difficulty for motorists from overseas. Those routes not sealed are generally well-graded and maintained. Visiting drivers can generally expect to average 90km per hour during a day's drive in New Zealand.

Driving licenses

Any visitor may drive in New Zealand, using a recognized valid driving permit and an International Driving Permit for a maximum period of 12 months from date of arrival in New Zealand or until the expiry of the licence, whichever is the earlier. Licenses must be carried when driving, in addition to a valid passport.

Inter-Island Ferry

A drive-on/drive-off service operates several times daily between Picton and Wellington (approx. 3.5 hours). Advance bookings are recommended especially during peak periods (December, January, February, public and school holidays).

Vehicle Rental - Go as you please

If you are on holiday, visiting friends or relatives, or on business, you can get about whenever you like with a vehicle arranged by GOWAY. We have a full range of cars and fully equipped motorhomes for you to choose from.