Car hire in Hamilton, New Zealand

Use the same magic that powers our flight search to find cheap car rental in Hamilton

Compare car hire on price, ease of pick-up, a fair fuel policy and more

Find Hamilton car rental deals you can amend or cancel if your plans change

Select your Hamilton pick-up location

There are 8 car hire locations in Hamilton. Choose the cheapest or easiest now.

The most popular car rental companies in Hamilton

Hiring a car in Hamilton: Fast facts

Here's everything you need to know to hit the road happy.
Most popular car hire companyBargain Rental Cars
Most popular carCompact, 4-5 doors
Average daily priceR 2,159
Best time to book2 weeks before

How to book the best car rental deals in Hamilton

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Hamilton car rental search.

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Hamilton

  • Whether you need a small car for scooting around the city or an SUV for a road trip, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Hamilton. Pick from options averaging R 2,179 a day and get going for less.

  • Lock in your ride in August and watch the savings add up. It's the cheapest time of year to rent a car in Hamilton, with average daily rates of R 294.

  • Land a cheap rental car in Hamilton by booking in advance. You're more likely to get the best value with the most choice.

  • Ezi, Bargain Rental Cars and Thrifty are some popular providers offering car hire deals in Hamilton.

  • The coverage Ezi or another company includes with your Hamilton car hire can differ, so always check the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.

  • Booking one-way could land you a cheaper deal on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Just choose 'Return car to a different location' when looking for a car for rent in Hamilton.

  • Avoid any unexpected fees by choosing a car hire in Hamilton with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.

  • Explore without limits by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you need without paying more.

  • Jetting into Hamilton? Think about picking up one of the car rentals in Hamilton International Airport. That way, you can start your adventure not long after arrival.

Compare car hire types in Hamilton

  • Small: These cheap rental cars in Hamilton may be small in size, but they're big on practicality. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to drive, great on mileage, and just the thing for short trips.

  • Medium: Not too small, not too big, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of interior space and fuel efficiency and are great for small families and couples.

  • Large: Long drives fly by in this Hamilton car hire category. Also known as full-size, they've got the engine power for lengthy trips. The extra space and comfort make them a great option for families and groups of friends.

  • SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and scenic backroads alike.

  • Van: Select this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Hamilton that can handle the heavy stuff. Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's supplies, luggage or whoever's along for the ride.

Insurance and optional extras

  • Choosing excess insurance for your Hamilton car hire gives you peace of mind. It protects you from paying a big excess fee in case of damage or theft. Insurance policies can vary from one provider to another, so check how each one stacks up.

  • Upgrade your ride with extras like a navigation system or mobile Wi-Fi. They can make your drive more efficient and enjoyable when you rent a car in Hamilton.

Good to know

  • Are you a younger driver? Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your car hire in New Zealand. Rules can vary, and certain restrictions or fees could apply. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to explore your options.

  • If you're going away with the kids, check if you should add a child car seat to your Hamilton car hire booking. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.

Hit the road: Where to drive from Hamilton

  • Make time for the biggest attractions in the city once you've found your car hire deal in Hamilton. Hamilton Pools and Hamilton Gardens are essential viewing before leaving town.

  • When you're ready to check in, JetPark Hamilton Airport New Zealand and Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton offer a welcome break in Hamilton.

  • Around 97 kilometres north of central Hamilton, Manukau City should be on your itinerary. Make your way to must-see sights like Japanese park and C3 Manukau.

  • Flat Bush Holiday Accomodation and Manukau Motor Lodge are reliable accommodation options in Manukau City.

  • Or pick up your cheap car hire in Hamilton and then set out for Tauranga. About 80 kilometres east of Hamilton, Mauao / Mount Maunganui summit and Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park are top attractions that are well worth the trip.

  • Relax after a big day out in Tauranga at Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers. Or swap the wheel for a well-earned rest at Hugo & Carters Backpackers & Motel.

  • Up for a bonus adventure? Hastings is a top road trip destination that's around 241 kilometres south-east of Hamilton. Plan to make a few pit stops at Cherry blossom forest and Cornwall Park.

  • Look for a room at Valdez Motor Lodge or Mangapapa Hotel. They're an ideal base for exploring everything Hastings has to offer.

Frequently asked questions

On average, hiring a car in Hamilton will set you back around R 2,159 per day or R 2,263 per week. 
The cheapest car to rent in Hamilton is an intermediate SUV. The most popular is Compact, 4-5 doors.
The cheapest car hire companies in Hamilton are currently Bargain Rental Cars and Ezi.
Bagging the best car hire deal depends on when you book  – often, it pays to book your wheels as far in advance as possible. But according to our data, the cheapest month to rent a car in Hamilton is currently August.
On average, around R 2,263. But the best price we found for car hire for a week in Hamilton is R 2,107.
If you're looking for freedom to explore Hamilton, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Hamilton that have free cancellation
Yes – you can easily find car hire companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select ‘Return car to a different location’ when you search with us.
Public transport can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, for as long as you want. And you'll be able to discover more outside of Hamilton.
Most places – Hamilton included – allow under 25s to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance excess for young drivers. 
The cheapest price we found for an economy car is R 502 per day. The average price per day is around R 1,235.
Of course. Most major car hire companies like Bargain Rental Cars, Budget and Ezi offer baby and child seats as an add-on when you book.
Other travellers rated Bargain Rental Cars as the best overall in terms of experience.
Yes – van hire is available in Hamilton.