Hi All: We are debating if we should rent a car upon arrival in Auckland Airport or if we should rent it the day we plan to leave Auckland (2 days later) and begin our North Island tour. I have heard that parking is tough and expensive and people are exhausted after the overnight flight, so driving isn't recommended. On the other hand, it's expensive to get back and forth from the airport. Do we need a car to get around Auckland. Just looking for the best option. I know we can rent in Auckland city, so that is an option that would work just not sure of the best plan. Any thoughts on this? Thanks for your help
Posted by
Colorado Springs
3116 posts
No need for a car in Auckland, and as you've noted you don't want to tackle LH traffic jetlagged and sleep deprived after a long flight anyway.
Better (I think) to collect your car in the city as you depart for your North Island adventure.
You're in for a real treat. NZ isn't as nice as you've heard - it's actually a lot nicer than that.
Posted by
OP
98 posts
We are so excited! Tickets bought yesterday, so we are really going! Thanks for all of your advice.
Posted by
Kamarooka
483 posts
Pretty sure the Sky Bus from Airport to CBD is only about $NZD17 (USD10?). Uber to CBD is around $NZD45 ((USD27?). So not really that expensive. Less than the hire car will cost you and less hassle.
We are picking up a small campervan from near the airport day of arrival but it is less than 4 hrs flying for us and we are used to driving on the left.
I would think best option is to either Sky Bus or Uber into town after the long haul flight and time zone changes.
You could rent one the next day if you want to do anything much out of town. It's been 25 years since my last visit to Auckland so I am not sure about the public transport situation.
Posted by
OP
98 posts
thanks. Yes. We confirmed to get it from the city. After so many hours on a plane, we may just go with Uber vs a shuttle that takes you to multiple places, but I will decide closer to the time. Now time for hotels etc. I know a different topic, but do you all think that hotels are the way to go or can we do Airbnb? Not sure of the environment there in this regard. Some places really frown upon Airbnb, so was wondering your thoughts. Thanks