Great value rental rates and exclusive special deals
Why book a rental car with us?
We’re here for you when you need us
Thousands of vehicles to choose from worldwide
On most cars up to 72 hours prior to pickup
Thrifty has New Zealand covered
Excited for your next trip? Thrifty has 33 depots across New Zealand and a versatile fleet to suit any purpose. They are a reliable, affordable rental brand, with perks such as unlimited kilometres and Roadside Assistance coverage. Thrifty car rental is the brand of choice for deal hunters and convenience seekers.
Explore our special offers
5% Off 5% Off Thrifty New Zealand Auckland, Blenheim, Christchurch, Dunedin, Gisborne, Greymouth + 18 more 01 November 2024 - 31 December 2025
Great range and Qualmark approved: Thrifty Car Rental New Zealand
Dotted throughout the North and South Islands of New Zealand, you have ample options of pick-up locations and vehicles to choose from when you book your car hire with Thrifty. You can also sign up for their Blue Chip Member Program to gain access to quicker reservations, a free authorised additional driver, priority counter service, and more. The program is free and easy to join.
Thrifty car rentals vehicle options
Thrifty offers 16 types of vehicles to suit a variety of travel requirements, from quick business trips to Auckland to weeks long cross country road trips and everything in between. Enjoy quality cars at an affordable price.
Car and Passenger Vehicles
Choose from Compact, Economy, Intermediate, Hybrid and Sport models, from the most recognisable brands. Toyota is a customer favourite, with the Corolla, Yaris and Camry top rentals for many years. The Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Qashqai are popular in the compact SUV category. There’s also a Sport Elite Ford Mustang on offer. Most vehicles feature a reversing camera, Bluetooth capability and air conditioning.
Truck, Bus, Ute, Van, 4WDs
For larger groups and big jobs, there is a great range of heavy duty vehicles to choose from, including full size SUVs, cargo vans, 4WD utes, and minibuses. From a Kia Carnival minivan 8 seater to a Premium 4WD Ford Ranger, the Thrifty range has it all. All have automatic transmission and great features like the reversing camera.
So easy to pick up a Thrifty rental car
Thrifty has locations all across the country, with 19 depots in the North Island and 14 depots in the South Island. Pick up a rental from Thrifty at locations as far north as Kerikeri and as far south as Invercargill. With depots located at airports and other travel hubs and the option to rent one way itineraries, you have a multitude of options for your travel plans and preferences.
Thrifty rental cars: Frequently asked questions
Expand all
Is Thrifty and Hertz the same company?
In November 2012, Thrifty, joined the Hertz family of brands when Hertz acquired the Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc.
Is Thrifty or Budget better?
Thrifty and Budget offer comparable services. Stock availability and personal preference will be the biggest factors in choosing between these top companies.
Does Thrifty have hidden fees?
The price you are quoted at the beginning of the rental is an estimate, due to options and conditions that may change as a result of the rental, such as fuel surcharges, toll passes, additional drivers, etc. Your invoice will clearly outline any charges. You may also enter your promo / discount code before you finalise your booking to save more.
Can I add an additional driver to my booking in New Zealand?
Yes, you may request an additional driver for your booking. An additional driver fee may apply which will be confirmed at time of reservation. Only drivers listed on the Rental Agreement are permitted to drive Thrifty vehicles.
Do I need a credit card in New Zealand?
Thrifty’s preferred method for payment is credit card. Credit cards are accepted nationally. Book great deals on Thrifty rental cars now!
Does the quote include all fees and charges in New Zealand?
Once you enter your travel details like collection date/time, drop off date/time, you will be quoted with the cost of renting the vehicle for the allotted time. Upon collection of the vehicle, you may have the option to add other features, accessories and extra protection. Other factors such as fuel charges may be added on at a later date.
Please note that fuel charges are not included. However, if you are an AA Member, there are exclusive New Zealand AA Member discount rates available for you. For fuel, there is a 20 % off the best base of the day rate plus a 20 cents per litre AA Smartfuel discount.
Will my overseas driving licence be accepted in New Zealand?
You will need a full and valid driver’s licence to get New Zealand rentals that displays the renter’s name and details in English. Driver’s licenses that are not in English must be accompanied by an English translation and/or an International Driving Permit.
How do I book a rental car in New Zealand?
Type your age and the collect location/drop off location with the dates and times into the search function. Once you have selected your preferred Thrifty car hire, you will then have the option to add on ‘extras’ such as child seats and GPS units. Add the details as per the prompted requirements to complete the booking. Bring a valid license and a credit card in your name to the depot to collect the vehicle.
