Best Day Trips from Queenstown by Car
Queenstown is an incredible base, but some of the best experiences in the South Island are just a short drive away. Here are our favourite day trips you can do with a rental car from Queenstown.
Arrowtown (20 minutes)
Just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is one of New Zealand’s best preserved gold rush towns. Wander the tree-lined main street, grab a coffee at one of the local cafes, and visit the Lakes District Museum to learn about the area’s history. In autumn, the poplar trees that line the streets turn gold and it’s one of the most photographed spots in the South Island.
Glenorchy (45 minutes)
Head north along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to reach the tiny settlement of Glenorchy. From there, you can continue on to Paradise, a remote and dramatic valley that has been used as a filming location for Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The road to Paradise is unsealed in parts, so we recommend a SUV for this one. Glenorchy is also the gateway to some of New Zealand’s best hiking trails such as Routeburn, Greenstone and Caples tracks.
Wanaka (1 hour)
Cross the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in New Zealand, and drop down into the Wanaka basin for the day. The drive itself is spectacular, and Wanaka offers beautiful lake views, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. If you are travelling with kids, Puzzling World is always a hit.
Cromwell (45 minutes)
Head east along State Highway 6 towards Cromwell, known for its stone fruit orchards and the beautiful lake created by the Clyde Dam. Stop at one of the roadside fruit stalls in summer and pick up fresh cherries, apricots, or peaches. The Cromwell Heritage Precinct features restored 1860’s buildings from the gold rush era which is also well worth exploring.
Milford Sound (4 hours)
If you are up for a longer drive or want to jump on a day tour from town, the road to Milford Sound is widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world. It is a full day trip, but the fjord itself is unlike anything else in New Zealand. You can break up the travel time with a night in Te Anau. We recommend planning ahead for this trip as the cruises can book out in advance. There are also no shops or petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound so make sure you are filled up with petrol and stocked up with food and drink for the day.
Ready to explore? Book your Queenstown rental car online and hit the road.
One-way car hire from Queenstown
Heading to Christchurch, Wellington, or Auckland after your Queenstown trip? Bargain Rental Cars offers one-way hire, so you can pick up in Queenstown and drop off at any of our 24 locations across New Zealand. It’s a great option if you’re planning to road trip the South Island — hire from Queenstown, explore at your own pace, and drop off in Christchurch before flying home.
One-way fees apply. Use the booking tool above to get an instant price for your dates and route.
Frequently asked questions — car hire Queenstown
Do I need to hire a car in Queenstown?
It depends on your itinerary. If you’re staying in central Queenstown and sticking to town, you can get around on foot or by using the local shuttle services. But if you want to visit the ski fields, explore Arrowtown or Glenorchy, or do any day trips, a hire car is by far the most flexible and cost-effective option. Most visitors find it’s well worth it for at least part of their stay.
Where do I pick up my rental car at Queenstown Airport?
Bargain Rental Cars operates from 31 Glenda Drive, Frankton — a short shuttle ride from the terminal. When you arrive at Queenstown Airport, a BRC shuttle will transfer you directly to the branch. On return, we’ll shuttle you back in time for your flight.
Can I drive a standard rental car to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables?
Yes. Both ski fields are accessible without requiring a 4WD. However, we recommend hiring an AWD vehicle during winter — the access roads can be icy and the extra ground clearance and AWD capability makes a real difference. Chains may be required in heavy snow; ski field operators will advise on the day.
Is a 4WD/AWD required for driving in Queenstown in winter?
Not for most standard routes around Queenstown. However, if you’re planning to drive the Crown Range to Wanaka, or visit ski fields during heavy snowfall, an AWD vehicle is strongly recommended. We have SUVs and AWD vehicles available at our Queenstown branch — select your preferred vehicle type in the booking tool above.
Can I hire a car in Queenstown and drop it off in another city?
Yes — Bargain Rental Cars offers one-way hire between Queenstown and our other branches, including Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland. A one-way fee applies. Enter your pickup and drop-off locations in the booking tool to see the full cost instantly.
How much does it cost to hire a car in Queenstown for a day?
The hire car cost in Queenstown for a day will depend on the type of vehicle you require. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
How much does it cost to hire a car in Queenstown for a week?
The hire car cost for a week in Queenstown will depend on the type of vehicle you require. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
How much does it cost to hire a car in Queenstown for a month?
The hire car cost for a month in Queenstown will depend on the type of vehicle you require. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
What car hire type do people usually go for in Queenstown?
SUV is a popular category, followed by touring sedan and commuter compact
How much does it cost for an SUV car hire in Queenstown?
The hire car cost for an SUV in Queenstown will depend on the season and on the length of the rental. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
What rental car companies are available in Queenstown?
You will find various options for rental car companies in Queenstown. From high end to budget. Bargain Rental Cars offer vehicles to suit most requirements, from SUVs, Hybrids, Station Wagons, Sedans, Compact, People Movers and Minibuses.
Which rental car companies offer the cheapest car hire rates in Queenstown?
Bargain Rental Cars offer everyday low prices on car hire in Queenstown. If you find a cheaper option we can beat it by 10%*. Find more details here https://www.bargainrentalcars.co.nz/offers/price-beat/
Which rental car pick-up locations are popular in Queenstown?
Bargain Rental Cars branch is located in Frankton. A short drive from Queenstown Airport.
Why should I book a rental car in Queenstown with Bargain Rental Cars?
When you rent a vehicle from Bargain Rental Cars, you are supporting a 100% New Zealand owned and operated, family business. You will always be provided with a personal service that ensures you get a rental vehicle that is not only a pleasure to drive but gives you value for money.
What do I need to rent a car in Queenstown?
To hire a vehicle in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars you will need a valid car driver’s licence and a credit card for security. If you are unable to provide a credit card, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.
Can I rent a car in Queenstown with a debit card?
Yes, you can with Bargain Rental Cars. If you are unable to provide a credit card for security, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.
Am I old enough to rent a car in Queenstown?
You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you are 18 years old or older. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.
What are some tips for picking up the right rental car in Queenstown?
City driving: A compact or economy car is ideal for places like inner Queenstown.
Road trips: Opt for a comfortable sedan, SUV, or station wagon with enough boot space.
Mountain, snow or rural areas: Consider a 4WD or AWD for better handling on gravel roads or alpine routes.
Group travel: Go for a people mover or minibus (6–12 seats) to travel together and save on fuel.
Do I need an SUV or 4WD for Queenstown in winter?
If you are planning to drive to the ski fields or travel on roads that may be affected by ice or snow, we strongly recommend hiring an SUV or AWD vehicle. Roads around Coronet Peak and The Remarkables can be affected by snow and ice during the winter season, and some roads require vehicles to carry chains. Our team can help you choose the right vehicle for your trip.
Where can I find an Queenstown car rental if I am younger than 25?
You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you are younger than 25. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.
Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a car in Queenstown?
You can drive with your home country driver’s licence if it is in English. If your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my Australian Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold an Australian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my U.S. Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a U.S. driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my UK Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a UK driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my Canadian Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a Canadian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my German Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a German driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my French Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Queenstown from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a French driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Queenstown with my Restricted Driver’s license?
With Bargain Rental Cars, if you’re holding a NZ Restricted Licence, you’ll be good to hire and drive a BRC rental car (Please note: You can only rent cars on your restricted licence. Vehicles such as minibuses and cargo vans are not permitted). For insurance purposes you are subject to the conditions of your licence. You may be liable for any insurance claim should a claim result from driving outside those conditions. You must be at least 18 years of age at the time of pick-up. A Mandatory Insurance fee of $20/day applies with an excess of $4950 in case of any incident with the vehicle.
In Queenstown, is fuel included in the rental?
No. Cars are typically supplied with a full tank and must be returned full.
Are ferry crossing between islands allowed in New Zealand?
You are allowed to take a car from Bargain Rental Cars on the ferry. Please note the ferry cost is not included with the rental.
Are child seats required for children to be in a car in Queenstown?
Yes, by NZ road rules, children must be secure in an approved child restraint (click here for more info).
Can rental car hires be extended in Queenstown?
At Bargain Rental Cars we allow booking extensions, however, this will depend on availability. We cannot guarantee any extension but will do our best to accommodate your request.
Is roadside assistance available with my car rental in Queenstown?
At Bargain Rental Cars, All our vehicles are covered by NZ Roadside Assistance with 24-hour roadside assistance service for any vehicle-related breakdowns.
