New Year car hire prices hit $1700 median
Kicking off 2027 with a summer holiday has always been a quintessential New Zealand tradition. As Kiwis flock to beaches and holiday hotspots, the demand for rental cars at Auckland Domestic Airport skyrockets. Securing a vehicle for the first week of January means navigating a highly competitive market driven by peak seasonal tourism. Our latest data reveals what travellers can expect to pay for a seven-day New Year rental.
Across 126 available listings, the median weekly price sits at a hefty $1705.65, though savvy renters can still find bargains. Apex stands out as the clear budget leader, consistently offering rates significantly lower than major international brands like Europcar and Hertz. The pricing spread between the cheapest and top-tier vehicles is massive, highlighting the importance of comparing suppliers.
The airport fleet remains heavily reliant on standard petrol vehicles, with electric and hybrid options making up a surprisingly small fraction of the inventory. Most rentals are standard 5-seaters, though larger groups can find 7 to 12-seater vans if they are willing to pay a premium. Renters should lock in their preferred size early to avoid being stuck with costly last-minute upgrades.