| |
| It's hard to find a more beautiful drive than the road to Aoraki/Mount Cook |
|
 |
|
Self-drive heaven
In New Zealand the scenery shapes the road, so driving is part of the pleasure not a just a passage between destinations.
Many visitors choose to explore New Zealand by car - the roads are excellent, congestion is non-existent and the scenery is stunning. At any time you can stop for an impromptu picnic or a hike through a conservation park. It’s all about freedom, and wondering what’s around the next corner.
Renting a car or motorhome helps to keep your itinerary flexible, so you can make the most of opportunities when they cross your path. There are dozens of stunning scenic driving routes to choose from, each exploring a unique part of New Zealand’s landscape.
Get behind the wheel
Well-formed roads and clear signage support the freedom of self-drive exploration in New Zealand. The traffic is generally light and delightful stopovers appear frequently. The country offers steadily changing geographies, passing quickly from farms to forests, river plains to mountain passes and long stretches of dramatic coastline. Every day is distinctly different.
In New Zealand, cars drive on the left side of the road. Signposting follows standard international symbols and all distances are in kilometres (km). The speed limit is 100 kilometres per hour on the open road and 50 kilometres per hour in urban areas.
You’ll find all New Zealand roads, including those in rural locations, are signposted. Tourist travelling routes are of a generally high standard and the main roads are sealed. There are multi-lane motorways and expressways on the approaches to the larger cities, with most roads being dual carriageways.
You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You must carry your licence or permit with you at all times when driving. Drivers and passengers - in the front and back seats - must wear a safety belt.
South Island scenic delights
New Zealand's uncrowded South Island roads offer endless opportunities for easy driving and photo stops along the way. Getting around is half the fun!
Christchurch, known as 'The Garden City' due to its expansive parks and gardens, is an elegant city that is also home to a bustling arts and cafe culture.
A wildly exciting environment that's irresistible to adventure seekers describes Queenstown. The ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ also has stunning scenery that is majestic, awe inspiring and almost unbelievable.
Widely regarded as the Southern Hemisphere's best preserved heritage city, Dunedin and the Coastal Otago region offer plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities including penguins, sea lions, fur seals and albatross.
The Catlins is an area of surprising natural beauty with forest, countryside and coast. A visit to the Catlins provides a touch of enchantment, like you’ve slipped through a magical gateway into a different world.
|
 | Find a travel agent | |
|
 |
|
| KIWI SPECIALISTS |
Kiwi Specialist Travel Agents in India are the experts on all things New Zealand. Find an agent who will help you plan your dream New Zealand holiday.
|
|
|
 |
Read more ›
|
| Feature Article | |
|
|
|
| SOUTHERN ALPS |
Cloud piercing mountains, glacial lakes, dramatic skies and wildflower meadows, the mountain ranges known collectively as the Southern Alps rise majestically like the spine of the South Island.
Photo credit: Julian Apse
|
|
|
|
Read more ›
|
| Driving Routes | |
|
|
|
| DRIVING ROUTES |
Find a driving route for your New Zealand holiday. Maybe you know where you want to go, maybe you don't. Either way there's a route for you.
Photo credit: Ben Crawford
|
|
|
|
Read more ›
|
|
Are you looking for a great Travel Deal from India to New Zealand? Check out the latest offers available from our partners.
| 
| 
