From United States
+1-8007618913
From Canada
+1-2897685366
From United Kingdom
+44-2035140670
From Japan
+81 3-4578-4029
From Argentina
+54-2657459025
From Chile
+56-226665927
From Colombia
+57-6017940262
From Mexico
+52-7449800692
From New Zealand
+64-99508740
From Peru
+51-17009061
From Switzerland
+41-445514539
From Thailand
+66-25088458
From Singapore
+65-31585008
From Australia
+61-1800-507-258
From Turkey
+90-850-390-7486
From Italy
+39-800729010
From Portugal
+351-304500663
From Brazil
+55-6140426960
From France
+33-970019487
From Israel
+972-23752163
From Germany
+49 6107 6353100
From China
+86-1089171020
From South Korea (Domestic calls only)
00308 491 0209
From other countries or regions
+1-8007618913
Live chat Email us Service Code: 6530458236
logo_img

Plan Your Drive From Palmerston North to Wellington

Discover the flexibility and convenience of a one-way car rental.

Can I rent a car from Palmerston North to Wellington?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Palmerston North to Wellington. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for NZ residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical New Zealand national photo ID.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, ranging from US$10.46 to US$17.18 per day depending on the provider.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years.
    Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version)
    • Original driving licence + NZTA Translation. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) certifies translations for self-driving rental vehicles. Free online NZTA for Japanese driver's license holders: https://www.qeeq.com/nzta-topic.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, ranging from US$10.46 to US$17.18 per day depending on the provider.
requirements.image

How much does renting a car from Palmerston North to Wellington cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 41/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 52/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 93-US$ 417US$ 0-US$ 341US$ 123-US$ 478Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 143US$ 54US$ 245Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 143-US$ 415US$ 54-US$ 341US$ 245-US$ 472Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 94-US$ 538US$ 0-US$ 341US$ 154-US$ 264Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 203US$ 54US$ 477Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 134-US$ 570US$ 0-US$ 341US$ 181-US$ 934Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Be aware that there may be an added fee for one-way rentals due to vehicle drop-off at a different location.
  • Vehicle Choice: Ensure the chosen vehicle suits the journey and local terrain from Palmerston North to Wellington.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: Check if the rental policy restricts travel beyond designated areas or regions.
  • Rental Duration: Plan your trip duration to align with the rental period to avoid extra charges.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel return policy, whether it's full-to-full or pre-paid.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Stops Along the Route: Identify rest areas and attractions to make the journey more enjoyable.
  • Check Weather Conditions: Ensure safe driving by reviewing the weather forecast for the route.
  • Emergency Numbers: Keep essential contact numbers, such as roadside assistance, at hand.
  • Allocate Ample Time: Schedule your journey to avoid rushing and ensure a stress-free experience.
  • Verify the Route: Update your GPS or maps for the most efficient and accessible path.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel before returning the car to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure to use the correct fuel type specified for the vehicle.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price in Wellington is approximately NZD 2.60 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Check tire pressure regularly to ensure efficient fuel usage.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

refueling-bg
Palmerston North Parking

Parking in Palmerston North is generally affordable, with hourly rates in the city center ranging from NZD 1.50 to NZD 2.50.

Free parking is available in some suburban areas.

Consider using public parking lots for longer durations.

Wellington Parking

Wellington offers various parking options, including metered street parking and parking buildings.

Hourly rates in central Wellington range from NZD 3.00 to NZD 5.00.

Use mobile apps to locate available parking spots in real-time.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMate: Allows you to find and pay for parking in advance.

PayMyPark: Offers features for managing parking sessions.

Wilson Parking: Provides real-time parking availability and booking options.

parking-bg

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Palmerston North to Wellington:
State Highway 1 (SH1) Direct Route
Highway 2 hours

A straightforward route taking you through Levin and Kapiti Coast with smooth roads and ample stops available.

Levin , Kapiti Coast , Paekakariki
Foxton Beach Scenic Route
Scenic 2.5 hours

This route meanders through coastal areas, offering beautiful beach views and quaint town vibes.

Foxton Beach , Otaki , Waikanae
Manawatu Gorge Historic Route
Historic 3 hours

A historical journey passing through the magnificent Manawatu Gorge, ideal for history enthusiasts.

Ashhurst , Woodville , Pahiatua Track
Essential Road Trip Planning Tips

Vehicle Condition Check: Ensure your car rental has been thoroughly checked for fuel, tires, and overall conditions before the trip.

Route Familiarity: Familiarize yourself with alternative routes and emergency exits, especially for long-distance trips.

Budget Planning: Confirm and allocate for rental fees, refueling, road tolls, and potential parking costs.

Convenience in Stops: Research and plan convenient stops for refreshment, rest, and fuel refills along the planned route.

Travel Insurance: Consider car rental insurance to cover damages or incidents during the journey for peace of mind.

Weather Updates: Stay informed on weather forecasts as they can impact travel times and route safety.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When planning your drive from Palmerston North to Wellington, selecting a car rental company that offers reliable vehicles and optional one-way rental services is essential. Below are some recommended companies for this route.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighExtensive
Avis$ModerateGood
Budget$$ModerateGood
Europcar$$$HighExtensive
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

companies-img1
Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

companies-img2
Best Rates

Compare across providers

companies-img3
24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

companies-img4
Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Centers at Palmerston North and Wellington

Rental car pickup at Palmerston North:

Located at the airport terminal; follow the car rental signs upon arrival.

Operating hours:

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM; hours may vary by company.

Free shuttle service to car center:

Shuttle buses run every 15 minutes for rental car pickups and returns.

Drop-off at Wellington:

Drop-off is located near the Wellington Airport terminal, with clear signage guiding within the area.

Pro Tips for Palmerston North Airport(PMR) Car Rentals

To ensure a smooth experience, confirm your rental details in advance, such as insurance, fuel policy, and return options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pick up a rental car in Palmerston North and drop it off in Wellington?

Yes, many car rental companies offer the option to pick up a car in Palmerston North and drop it off in Wellington. This one-way rental service is popular for travelers who plan to explore the region without returning to the starting point.

Are there additional fees for one-way car rentals on this route?

Most rental companies charge a one-way fee for the convenience of dropping off the car at a different location. The fee amount varies by company, so check the terms and conditions before booking.

What are the recommended car types for this journey?

If you're traveling from Palmerston North to Wellington, any car type can be suitable depending on your needs. Compact cars are great for fuel efficiency and solo travelers, while SUVs or vans are ideal for families or groups.

How long does it take to drive from Palmerston North to Wellington?

The drive from Palmerston North to Wellington typically takes about 2 hours via State Highway 1, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Are there vehicle drop-off locations at Wellington airport?

Yes, most major car rental companies have drop-off locations at Wellington Airport, making it convenient for travelers to finalize their journey.

Ready to Book Your Palmerston North to Wellington Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ