Car Rental in Te Anau | Compare Cheap Car Hire Te Anau

Landmarks in Te Anau
Last updated: Jul 2, 2025

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24 May 2025

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Car Rental Information for Te Anau

About Te Anau

Te Anau is a charming town located in the Southland region of New Zealand’s South Island, renowned as the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Its stunning natural setting on the shores of Lake Te Anau makes it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The town serves as the starting point for exploring the famous Milford Track and other iconic hiking trails. Visitors are drawn to Te Anau for its tranquil lake views, lush forests, and proximity to dramatic fjords and waterfalls. The area offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting, including rare native birds. Te Anau’s friendly small-town atmosphere combined with its access to some of New Zealand’s most spectacular wilderness areas makes it a must-visit for travelers seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure.

Rental Requirements

  • Valid driver's license
  • Credit card in driver's name
  • Minimum age: 21 (25 for some vehicles)

Popular Rental Companies

  • Hertz
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Budget

Driving in Te Anau

Major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz operate in nearby Queenstown and Invercargill, with options to pick up vehicles for travel to Te Anau. Typical daily rental costs range from NZD 60 to 120 depending on vehicle type and season, with weekly rates offering discounts. Drivers must hold a valid driver’s license, and the minimum age is usually 21, with additional fees for drivers under 25. Roads around Te Anau are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, especially on routes to Milford Sound. Parking in Te Anau is available in town centers and near trailheads, often free or low cost. Tourists benefit from renting a car to explore the region independently, as public transport options are limited and many attractions are spread out.
Do you need to rent a car for Te Anau? Renting a car is highly recommended for visitors to Te Anau. It provides the freedom to explore the surrounding natural attractions at your own pace, including remote hiking trails and scenic drives. While shuttle services exist, a rental car offers greater flexibility and convenience, especially for day trips to Milford Sound and other nearby sites.

Explore Te Anau

Things to Do in Te Anau

Popular activities in Te Anau include hiking on world-famous tracks like the Milford and Kepler Tracks, guided tours of the glowworm caves, kayaking on Lake Te Anau, fishing, and wildlife watching. Adventure seekers can enjoy jet boating and scenic flights over Fiordland. Cultural experiences include learning about Māori heritage and local conservation efforts.

Essential Te Anau Information

Type: City
Currency: NZD
Timezone: Pacific/Auckland
Best Time to Visit: Best time to visit is summer for outdoor activities, but winter offers beautiful snowy scenery.
Languages: English, Māori

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