If you are looking for affordable rental cars in Tauranga, Mt Maunganui and Tauranga Airport, you came to the right place. From small compact cars to station wagons, suv and minibuses. Easy online booking and free cancellation for your peace of mind.
Our staff will go the extra mile to provide our customers with an excellent experience from the time of booking to the return of the vehicle.
Free Cancellation up to 48hrs before pickup
100% Kiwi Owned & Operated for over 25 years
Everyday low prices
We don’t charge credit card fees on payments
One way hires available to and from Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Queenstown and Christchurch
We don’t charge for an additional driver – You can have as many as you want
All hires come with 24hrs roadside assistance
All hires come with free basic insurance for drivers over 25 and you can reduce your excess if you wish to do so
24 Locations Nationwide. Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch & Queenstown
We have a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to touring, SUV’s, people movers and minibuses
Book the car instantly using our online booking system
Superb customer service
15% Discount* on your next car rental with BRC.
Enjoy NZ. Pay Less on Your Rental Car and Visit More Places!
If you are part of NZ Emergency Services you can enjoy a 10% discount on your next rental*.
Have you got a firm quote from another car rental company and their price is better than ours? No Problem, we can beat that price by 10%*
The rental car cost for a day in Tauranga will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $15/day for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
The rental car cost for a week in Tauranga will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $105/week for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
The rental car cost for a month in Tauranga will depend on the type of vehicle you require, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $450/month for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
SUV is a popular category, followed by touring sedan and commuter compact
The rental cost for a SUV for a day in Tauranga will depend on the length of the hire, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $30/day for a small/compact SUV excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
You will find various options for rental car companies in Tauranga. 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.
Bargain Rental Cars offer everyday low prices on car hire in Tauranga. If you find a cheaper option we can beat it by 10%*. Find more details here https://www.bargainrentalcars.co.nz/offers/price-beat/
Bargain Rental Cars Tauranga branch is located in Gate Pa (Opposite the New World supermarket)
Yes, Bargain Rental Cars offer one-way car rental from and to Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, Hamilton and Christchurch.
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.
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.
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.
You can hire a car in Tauranga 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.
You can hire a car in Tauranga from Bargain Rental Cars if you are younger than 25. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.
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.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold an Australian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a U.S. driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a UK driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a Canadian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga 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.
Yes, you can hire a car in Tauranga 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.
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.
No. Cars are typically supplied with a full tank and must be returned full.
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.
Yes, by NZ road rules, children must be secure in an approved child restraint (click here for more info).
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.
At Bargain Rental Cars, All our vehicles by 24-hour roadside assistance service for any vehicle-related breakdowns.
Situated on the edge of the sparkling Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is a city that captures the heart with its coastal charm, natural beauty, and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or planning a longer North Island road trip, Tauranga delivers something for everyone—from rugged hiking trails and glowing waterfalls to family-friendly beaches and buzzing waterfront culture.
If you’re looking to make the most of your time in this vibrant coastal city, here are five top experiences you won’t want to miss.
1. Climb to the Top of Mount Maunganui
No trip to Tauranga is complete without taking on the iconic Mount Maunganui, also known as Mauao. This ancient volcanic cone marks the entrance to the harbour and stands proudly as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The walk to the summit is relatively short but offers a good workout, with panoramic views as your reward. As you ascend through native bush, the city slowly unfolds below you—along with sweeping coastal views of the Pacific Ocean and white-sand beaches that seem to stretch forever.
Once you’ve made it back down, treat yourself to a dip in the nearby hot pools or grab a smoothie at one of the stylish cafes that line the beachside promenade. Whether you’re there for sunrise, sunset, or a mid-day adventure, Mount Maunganui is an essential stop.
2. Escape to Nature at McLaren Falls Park
Just 20 minutes out of town, McLaren Falls Park is a sprawling retreat full of waterfalls, forest walks, and peaceful lakeside scenery. It’s a haven for picnickers, campers, and anyone looking to unwind in nature.
The park is best known for its namesake falls, which tumble down mossy rocks into tranquil pools—a great spot for photos or a refreshing dip on a hot day. Walking trails weave through native bush and alongside the lake, offering plenty of chances to encounter birds and other wildlife.
Stick around after dark to experience one of the area’s best-kept secrets: a magical glowworm trail. As night falls, parts of the bush light up with the soft glow of thousands of tiny creatures, turning your evening walk into something straight out of a fairytale.
3. Experience Waterfront Living on The Strand
Tauranga’s waterfront district, The Strand, is where the city’s energy really comes to life. With views out across the harbour and a steady hum of activity, it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or an evening out.
Along the promenade, you’ll find an eclectic mix of eateries, from gourmet restaurants to casual fish and chip shops. It’s also home to quirky public art and the beloved bronze sculptures of Hairy Maclary and friends—characters from the iconic Kiwi children’s books.
By day, it’s family-friendly and laid-back; by night, it comes alive with music, craft cocktails, and locals unwinding at cozy bars. The surrounding area also features boutique shops and art galleries, giving you a taste of Tauranga’s creative spirit.
4. Go Dolphin Watching in the Bay of Plenty
Tauranga’s coastal location makes it a prime jumping-off point for marine adventures, and one of the most memorable is a dolphin cruise. Several local tour companies offer boat trips into the Bay of Plenty, where you have a high chance of spotting playful pods of dolphins swimming alongside.
Depending on the season, you might also see orcas, pilot whales, or even humpbacks on their migratory path. These tours often include commentary from experienced marine guides, offering insights into the local ecosystem and the behavior of the wildlife you encounter.
Some operators even give you the option to swim in the open water near the dolphins—an experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your New Zealand adventure.
5. Soak Up the Sun at Papamoa Beach
For a more relaxed pace, head to Papamoa Beach—a long, peaceful stretch of golden sand just a short drive from central Tauranga. It’s a quieter alternative to Mount Maunganui’s busy main beach and a favorite with locals for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking in the sunshine.
Papamoa is perfect for long walks along the surf, collecting shells, or kicking back with a good book. The beach is patrolled in summer months, making it a safe place for families, and there’s plenty of space to find your own private spot away from the crowds.
Just inland, the suburb of Papamoa offers a welcoming blend of local cafes, markets, and parks, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the area. It’s also a great place to experience Tauranga’s laid-back coastal lifestyle at its best.
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