Welcome to RaD Car Hire Nelson & Marlborough Car, SUV, Ute, MPV, Minibus & Van Rentals
Welcome to the vibrant Marlborough Sounds on the South Island of New Zealand! Picton is a picturesque seaside town on the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound, which accounts for 150km of New Zealand’s coastline. Explore the breathtaking scenery with a Picton car rental from RaD Car Hire. Grab a deal today and get on the road in a spacious and modern Picton car hire at an budget-friendly price.
Why Hire a RaD Rental Car in Picton?
At RaD Car Hire in Picton, we want you to have the best rental experience possible. Our premium range of late-model vehicles for hire in Picton offers various choices to suit your budget and travel needs.
If you’re here on a business trip, get to your meetings on time in one of our economy hatchbacks or compact SUVs. Looking for rental cars in Picton with more room? Everyone gets a comfortable seat in our 8-seater MPVs, 12-seat minibuses and cargo vans. Carry more equipment with a 4WD double-cab ute with a tow bar and bike rack.
We offer a hassle-free online booking process for car rental in Picton, New Zealand. First, enter your required rental period, then choose one of our available Picton rental cars to suit your budget and travel requirements. Rent a car in Picton from RaD, and the price includes GST, unlimited kilometres, and full standard insurance. Now you’re set to travel around the incredible South Island to uncover its hidden gems and create a memorable experience to last a lifetime.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service
When you book your Picton car rental online, you can indicate if you’d like us to collect you from the Picton Ferry. We pick up from the Bluebridge Ferry Terminal or the Interislander Ferry Terminal building. Alternatively, advise our friendly team via New Zealand phone - 03 573 7787. We offer this Picton ferry pick-up service free of charge with any RaD hire car booking. If you’re running late and won’t arrive at the Picton Ferry terminal at the allocated time, contact the Picton office so we can make alternate arrangements for you to collect your vehicle.
Our Ferry Terminal Location
You can rely on RaD for car rentals at the Picton Ferry Terminal. Our office is conveniently located at the Interislander Ferry Terminal. Situated on the outskirts of Picton CBD, the Picton Ferry Terminal meets all incoming Cook Strait ferry sailings, serving as the connection point for people travelling between the two main islands of New Zealand.
Car Hire Picton Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a car in Picton?
For cheap car rental in Picton, check out our deals page to take advantage of promotions and seasonal specials. Make sure you book your rental car before the New Zealand holiday periods when prices increase.
What is the most popular rental car in Picton?
Our economy car rentals in Picton, such as the Honda Jazz, are perfect for visitors to zip around the city centre. Holiday-makers who plan to hit the slopes or further afield on the South Island love the power of our Honda CRV Touring or Hyundai Tucson SUVs. Whatever you need, RaD has a great Picton car rental to suit your travel needs and budget. Note that a minimum hire period may apply.
Can I rent a car from Picton and return it to a different location?
Yes, you can rent a car from our Picton branch and return it to another RaD depot. Book a one-way car hire from our Picton Ferry location and return it to any of our depots on the North Island or South Island. To view our high-quality car rental range, head to our booking page and browse our wide selection of vehicles. Enter your pick-up and drop-off dates and locations to receive an instant quote!
How much does an intermediate car rental cost in Picton?
Along with excellent service, we work hard to offer great prices on our fleet of late-model rental cars. Our intermediate range of cheap car hire in Picton includes Honda CRV Touring or Hyundai Tucson SUVs. We guarantee you’ll rent a car in Picton, New Zealand, from RaD at a great price to help stretch your budget further.
How much does it cost to rent a car long-term for a month in Picton?
Whether you’re in town on holiday or on a business trip, we make renting a car and travelling the South Island of New Zealand easy. Save even more money and book your rental car in Picton for longer. Head to our booking page, enter your travel dates to view our available late-model rental cars and lock in a great price to suit your budget.
What are the requirements for car rental in Picton?
You must hold a valid driver’s licence to hire and drive our Picton Ferry hire cars. We accept international licences, but you must provide a translation if it’s not in English. We also require a credit card to secure your rental car reservation.
How old do I need to be to rent a car in Picton?
You must be over 18 to secure a Picton car rental and drive in New Zealand. You need to select our Full Risk Cover if you hold a restricted licence. Conditions apply to drivers under 25 - contact us to find out more when you’re ready to rent a car from our Picton Ferry Terminal location.
When is the best time to visit Picton?
The weather in Picton is generally fine year-round; however, the best time to hire a Picton car rental and visit the region is between October and May. During this time, you’ll find plenty of events to attend, such as the February Marlborough Food and Wine Festival.
What are some tips for driving in Picton?
If you’re considering travelling on the Picton Ferry with your car rental, be advised that vehicles aren’t insured on the ferry. Finding a replacement car hire in Wellington may be more convenient. If you’re considering this, speak with our friendly staff on our Picton location phone number 03 573 7787, or email [email protected]. If this is your first time driving in New Zealand, check out our useful driving tips.
Where can I drive to from Picton?
Once you rent a car in Picton on the South Island of New Zealand, you have loads of fantastic driving options to explore the surrounding areas. Travel along the Picton Foreshore, admiring the harbour. Walk along the waterfront, dine in world-class restaurants, or take a relaxing boat cruise. Embark on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds to enjoy picturesque coastal views and stunning hiking trails.
Why not select a designated driver and indulge in tastings of the region’s famous Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals? Or, you can join one of the many wine tours to learn about the winemaking process. Kaikoura is located two hours south of Picton, a coastal town renowned for its marine wildlife encounters. Travel along the rugged coastline, go whale watching, or swim with dolphins.
What’s the speed limit in Picton?
In urban areas, the default speed limit is typically 50 kph. However, watch for signs indicating reduced speeds in specific areas, such as school zones. The speed limit on highways and motorways is commonly 100 kph.
Where are the best places to park in Picton?
You’ll find three locations in the CBD to park your Picton car hire. The first hour is free in all Marlborough District Council car parks. For on-street parking, download the Paymypark App or register your details at a Pay by Plate meter and follow the prompts on the screen. The Bluebridge ferry terminal and Interislander terminal offer long-term parking options.
How much does petrol cost in Picton?
In New Zealand, global supply and demand determine fuel prices. In the second quarter of 2023, fuel prices have ranged from 2.51 to 2.68 NZD per litre.
Attractions and Things to Do in Picton
Queen Charlotte Track
The Queen Charlotte Track is the most popular walk within the expansive Marlborough Sounds region. This multi-day walking and mountain biking trail boasts 70km of lush forest, incredible wildlife, and spectacular scenery. Along the Queen Charlotte Track, you can spot numerous bays, coves, and pristine beaches that invite you to take a refreshing swim or engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also find various accommodation options, such as campsites, lodges and resorts.
Floating Maritime Museum
The Edwin Fox Museum is an old merchant sailing ship that once transported immigrants to New Zealand and Australia. The Edwin Fox was retired around 1950 and preserved as a museum piece.
EcoWorld Aquarium
Meet the locals at EcoWorld Picton Aquarium & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. See colourful creatures such as New Zealand pot-bellied seahorses, giant squid, and Little Blue Penguins.
Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary
Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of New Zealand’s most unique birdlife. Walking tracks around the nature reserve allow visitors to enjoy bird song, native bush, and fantastic views.
