Car rental Otago Region

Nestled in the southern parts of New Zealand's South Island, the Otago Region is a vast expanse of awe-inspiring natural beauty. A car is perhaps the best way to navigate the well-maintained roads and highways as well as to take in the spectacular view outside your window.

Insider tip:

Keep left! Unlike in the UK, you must drive on the left-hand side of the road in New Zealand. Also, remember that distances can be deceptive - the winding roads and diverse terrain can make journeys longer than they appear on the map.

Must-See Attractions

From the historic city of Dunedin to the beautiful vineyards of Central Otago, there's a lot to see and do in the region.

Historical Dunedin

Known as the Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin is a city with a distinctly Scottish feel. It's home to Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, and the impressive University of Otago which was established in 1869.

Nature and Adventurous outdoors

See the rare yellow-eyed penguins at Moeraki, or travel to Middle Earth as you visit various filming locations for 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' within the region.

World-class Vineyards

Central Otago is one of the world's southernmost winemaking regions, known for its Pinot Noir wines. Enjoy wine tasting tours, relax in the sophisticated vineyard restaurants, or simply enjoy the beautiful views.

Navigating the Weather

The Otago Region generally has a temperate climate, but the weather is often changeable. Winters can be cold with frequent frosts and occasional snow, while the summers are warm but rarely extreme. Layering your clothing is recommended as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

Local Currency

The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

Seasonal Events

Otago hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival in Dunedin, Central Otago Pinot Noir celebration, and the winter games in Queenstown and Wanaka.

We hope you’re excited to embark on your journey. Happy travels!