How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Road Trip in New Zealand

Planning a budget-friendly road trip in New Zealand is easier than you think. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this guide is packed with practical tips for cheap car rentals NZ, affordable accommodation, free activities, and a realistic budget breakdown for a week-long adventure.

At RaD, we know a thing or two about planning trips on a budget. We have been helping travellers to do it for years, passing on all our experience and sharing our tips when it comes to the best places to stay, things to do and where to find the cheapest eats in town.

In this handy post, we have brought together some of the best tips from our team located all around the country, as well as drawing on real experiences from locals, backpackers, and international travellers,  helping you to get the advice you need to help you explore New Zealand without breaking the bank.

Ready to start saving? Read on…

How to Score Cheap Car Rentals NZ

Your car rental is usually one of the biggest parts of your road trip budget, but with a little planning, you can save a lot:

  • Browse your options: RaD Car Hire offers a wide range of vehicles across New Zealand at some of the country’s most competitive prices. As a locally owned and operated business, we also know the country like the back of our hands and can let you explore New Zealand on your terms, without blowing your budget.
  • Pick the right car: Fuel-efficient hatchbacks or compact sedans are wallet-friendly and perfect for city streets, winding mountain roads, or long highway drives. Choose your size based on who’s travelling with you and where you’re going. At RaD, we have no hidden fees which means no nasty surprises when it comes to your final payment.
  • Unlimited kilometres: Check if your rental includes unlimited kilometres - extra fees can quickly add up on longer trips. At RaD, all our cars come with unlimited KMs so there’s nothing holding you back when it comes to exploring beautiful Aotearoa.
  • Book smart: Early bookings often snag the best rates. Flexible travellers can look for relocation deals - one-way trips at a discount, sometimes even with ferry crossings included. If you are looking at one-way deals, think about starting your adventure in the South Island. A lot of rental car companies need to get their fleet back up to the North Island over the busy summer period, so this is where you are most likely to find a one-way rental relocation deal.
  • Check the fine print: Make sure insurance, roadside assistance, and total pricing are transparent. Local brands often offer better support than big international operators.

RaD Staff Tips:

  • Auckland Airport Branch: “Planning a North Island adventure? Book early - our hatchbacks are popular and sell out fast during school holidays.”
  • Christchurch Airport Branch: “Heading to the West Coast? Unlimited kilometres are a lifesaver, especially if you’re hitting Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.”
  • Wellington Branch: “If you’re looping through the capital, small cars are ideal for city streets and parking - our compact sedans are perfect.”

Where Can I Find Free and Cheap Camping in NZ?

When you are budgeting for your trip, the next biggest cost is usually accommodation. That being said, accommodation doesn’t have to blow your budget. Here are ways to sleep cheaply or even for free:

  • Freedom camping: NZ allows certified self-contained vehicles to camp on public land, but check local restrictions and signage. This won’t be possible in a rental car, however, if you are reading this post and have decided to rent a campervan, this definitely becomes a great option but make sure you invest in a self-contained camper, otherwise you risk an infringement.
  • DOC campsites: Department of Conservation sites are simple but scenic, costing around $6–$15 per person/night. Booking ahead is smart during peak season. These are typically found on some of our Great Walks but can also be found dotted around the country in prime, but often remote, locations.
  • Holiday parks and hostels: YHA hostels and Top 10 Holiday Parks offer shared kitchens and showers - great for social travellers. These are probably the most popular options with budget travellers and can often be found in prime locations, especially the holiday parks.
  • Alternative options: Couchsurfing, WWOOFing, and WorkAway offer free accommodation in exchange for a bit of work or socialising. This will obviously depend on how long you are travelling for and what you want to get out of your trip. If this is purely a vacation, then some of the paid options might be a better use of your time if you want to see more of the country.
  • Airbnb: Smaller towns and villages often have budget-friendly options away from main tourist hubs. There are some absolute hidden gems on there as well, and you will often find that your hosts will be super-friendly and very receptive to budget travellers.

RaD Staff Tips:

  • Tauranga Branch: “Freedom camping near Mount Maunganui is amazing in summer - just remember to bring water and check council bylaws.”
  • Queenstown Branch: “DOC campsites around Lake Wakatipu offer incredible lakeside views. Book early in peak season.”
  • Napier Branch: “For quiet nights, try low-cost campsites along the East Coast - it’s cheaper than central city motels and often more scenic.”

What Are the Most Affordable Things to Do on an NZ Road Trip?

  • Nature dominates: Hikes, waterfalls, beaches, and lakes often cost nothing. Top picks include Fiordland, Abel Tasman, Coromandel, and Waikato. Look out for Regional and National Park signs on your road trip adventure. Sometimes the best stops are the unplanned ones so keep an open mind – you never know what hidden gems you might discover.
  • Adventure on a budget: Bungy jumping, jet boating, and skydiving can add up, but look for student discounts, off-peak rates, and package deals. There are also some great deals site here in NZ for our international visitors including Bookme, GrabOne, and Wotif.
  • Experience local culture: Farmers’ markets, community events, galleries, and historic sites are low-cost ways to engage with Kiwi life. Check out local directories for more information and keep your eye on local noticeboards for upcoming events.
  • Cook your own meals: Stock up at supermarkets and use campsite kitchens or picnic spots to save on dining out. Pak n Save tends to be the cheapest supermarket in NZ, however, keep an eye on the discounted fresh food which you will find in most supermarkets towards the end of the day.

RaD Staff Tips:

  • Wellington Branch: “Don’t miss free exhibitions at Te Papa - it’s perfect for a rainy day without spending a cent.”
  • Rotorua Branch: “Check out the Redwoods forest walks. Free trails and an evening lights display for a small fee make it super budget-friendly.”
  • Christchurch Branch: “Hokitika Gorge is free and perfect for photos. Pair it with a bakery stop for cheap, hearty lunch options.”

Popular Budget NZ Road Trips and Sample Itineraries

1. Auckland → Rotorua → Taupo (North Island Classic):

  • Drive: Auckland → Coromandel → Rotorua → Taupo
  • Stay: Freedom camp at Coromandel beaches, hostels in Rotorua, DOC sites near Taupo
  • Do: Cathedral Cove walk, free thermal pools, Redwoods Night Lights, Huka Falls hike

Read more: 10 Top Destinations Within a 3-Hour Drive of Auckland

2. Christchurch → Greymouth → Franz Josef (West Coast Adventure):

  • Drive: SH73 via Arthur’s Pass → Greymouth → Hokitika → Franz Josef/Fox Glacier
  • Stay: DOC or holiday parks along the West Coast
  • Do: Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, Hokitika Gorge, glacier walks (free options available)

Read more: Exploring the West Coast: Greymouth and Hokitika Highlights.

3. Queenstown → Milford Sound:

  • Drive: Queenstown → Te Anau → Milford Sound, loop to explore Fiordland
  • Stay: DOC sites near Te Anau, budget motels or hostels
  • Do: Lakeside walks, Eglinton Valley, Milford Sound cruise ($60–$100)
  • Budget meal tip: Local bakeries and supermarket delis offer pies, sandwiches, and salads under $10.

Read more: Scenic Drives from Queenstown You Can’t Miss

RaD Staff Tips:

  • Rotorua Branch: “Lake Okareka is perfect for a quiet freedom camp evening - highly recommended!”
  • Te Anau Branch: “Stay overnight near Milford Sound to beat the early morning crowds—plus, it saves driving fatigue.”
  • Auckland West Branch: “If you’re starting in the North Island, try combining Rotorua and Taupo in one week - plenty of free hikes and budget-friendly thermal pools.”

How Much Does a Week-Long Budget Road Trip Really Cost?

Here’s a realistic 7-day breakdown per person*:

RaD Tip: “Team up with fellow travellers to share car and fuel costs. Hunt for all-in pricing, loyalty, and relocation deals to stretch your budget further.”

* This is an estimated budget only and is indicative of how much things could cost on your trip.

How to Take Your Road Trip Further for Less

  • Travel off-season: Avoid December–February when prices and crowds peak.
  • Explore local: Small towns often have quirky attractions, local events, and affordable eats.
  • Carpool or rideshare: Use online groups safely to split costs or cover short segments.
  • Pack light: Smaller cars = cheaper rentals. Avoid excess baggage.

RaD Staff Tip – Nationwide: “Packing smart and sharing rides can reduce costs significantly. Ask your local RaD branch for tips on hidden gems along your route - they know the country!”

Budget NZ Road Trip FAQs

Can you road trip New Zealand on a backpacker’s budget?

Absolutely. Budget travel NZ is realistic for solo, couple, or group trips if you prioritise cheap car rentals, free camping, and mostly self-catering.

What’s the cheapest way to rent a car in NZ?

Compare local brands, book early or use relocation deals, and choose fuel-efficient models. Always check mileage limits and insurance.

Are there hidden costs with budget car hire?

Watch for insurance excess, kilometre caps, late return charges, and cleaning fees. Always read the rental agreement.

Where are the best free camping spots?

DOC campgrounds, certain council freedom camping sites, and roadside reserves. Check signage and local rules.

Will I get good food for cheap on the road?

Yes. Supermarkets, local bakeries, and campsites with kitchens make self-catering easy and affordable.

What’s a typical daily spend on a budget NZ trip?

NZ$65–NZ$140 per day, including car rental, fuel, budget accommodation, self-catering, and one paid attraction.

With a little planning, flexibility, and insider tips from the RaD team, a budget-friendly New Zealand road trip isn’t just possible, it’s one of the best ways to experience the country’s scenery, culture, and people.

Ready to hit the road? Pick up your car at RaD Car Hire branches in one of our 22 branches around the country, including major hubs in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Queenstown, and let your Kiwi adventure begin.

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