One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport

Location: Auckland Airport (AKL) City: Auckland Country: New Zealand

One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL) — Complete Guide

One way car rental is the ideal solution for travelers who want to pick up a vehicle at Auckland Airport (AKL) and drop it off at a different location, eliminating the need to loop back. This search is incredibly popular at Auckland Airport because New Zealand’s long, narrow geography naturally encourages road trips from north to south. International visitors, families on multi-city itineraries, and business travelers frequently choose this flexible option. The key benefit is complete itinerary freedom — start your journey the moment you land without wasting a single day retracing your route.

What to Expect When Renting One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

The one way rental category at Auckland Airport covers a broad spectrum of vehicles, from compact hatchbacks to spacious SUVs and people movers. You will typically find well-maintained vehicles that are less than two years old, with many suppliers refreshing their fleets annually to ensure reliability for long-distance journeys across New Zealand’s varied terrain.

Vehicle types commonly included in this category range from economy cars suited for solo travelers or couples through to mid-size sedans, crossover SUVs, and eight-seater minivans for larger groups. Example models you might receive include the Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, or a Toyota Hiace for group travel. Automatic transmissions dominate the fleet at Auckland Airport, reflecting what most international travelers are comfortable with, although manual options are available if specifically requested in advance. A standard sedan seats five adults and accommodates two large suitcases and two carry-on bags, while an SUV provides higher ground clearance and space for three large suitcases.

Which Rental Companies Offer One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)?

All major international and local rental companies at Auckland Airport support one way rentals, though drop-off fees and vehicle availability vary significantly by supplier and target location. The table below compares the leading providers to help you make an informed decision.

Supplier Available Models Starting Price Per Day (USD) Customer Rating Deposit Amount Free Cancellation Window Notable Features
Avis Toyota Corolla, RAV4, Highlander $55 4.3/5 $300 48 hours Avis Preferred express pickup, extensive South Island depot network
Hertz Kia Sportage, Toyota Camry, Mitsubishi Outlander $52 4.4/5 $250 24 hours Gold Plus Rewards skip-the-counter, 24/7 roadside assist
Budget Hyundai i30, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Qashqai $42 4.1/5 $200 48 hours Frequent weekend specials, competitive long-term rates
Europcar Peugeot 308, Mitsubishi ASX, Holden Equinox $48 4.2/5 $280 72 hours Privilege loyalty program, newer European fleet mix
Thrifty Mazda 3, Toyota RAV4, Kia Carnival $40 4.0/5 $200 24 hours Lower deposit holds, Blue Chip rewards program

Average Pricing for One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

One way rental pricing at Auckland Airport typically carries a drop-off surcharge that varies depending on the distance and demand at the return location. Dropping a vehicle in Christchurch or Queenstown usually incurs a fee between $150 and $350, whereas returning to Wellington may cost between $75 and $200. These surcharges are sometimes built into the daily rate or listed separately at checkout.

  • Daily rate (low season, May-September): $35 — $65 for a compact car, $55 — $90 for an SUV
  • Daily rate (high season, December-February): $70 — $120 for a compact car, $100 — $170 for an SUV
  • Weekly rate: $210 — $390 for compact cars, $350 — $650 for SUVs
  • Monthly discount: Typically 15% — 25% off the standard weekly rate for rentals exceeding 28 days
  • Additional driver fee: $8 — $15 per day, per additional driver
  • Young driver surcharge (under 25): $15 — $30 per day, often with a restricted vehicle selection
  • Insurance add-on costs: $12 — $30 per day depending on coverage level

Insurance Options for One Way Car Rental

Insurance is the aspect of renting that causes the most confusion, particularly for international visitors unfamiliar with New Zealand's arrangements. Standard rates at Auckland Airport almost always include basic Collision Damage Waiver, but the excess liability remains significant — typically between $2,000 and $4,000, meaning you are responsible for damage costs up to that amount.

Full Protection or Super Cover reduces your excess to zero or a nominal amount, usually $100 or less. Third-party liability is included, as required by New Zealand law, covering damage to other vehicles and property. Personal accident insurance for medical expenses is often bundled into full protection packages or available as a standalone option at $5 to $8 per day. Tire and windshield coverage is particularly worth considering if you plan to drive on gravel roads around the South Island, as many standard policies exclude glass and underbody damage. Premium credit cards often include rental car insurance, but in almost all cases this excludes larger vehicles like minivans and 4WDs, and liability excess amounts in New Zealand can still apply. For peace of mind with one way rentals, full excess reduction is the generally recommended choice.

Requirements to Rent One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

Meeting the rental requirements at Auckland Airport is a straightforward process, but preparing documents in advance will save you significant time at the counter. The minimum age to rent is 21 years for most suppliers, though drivers between 21 and 24 face mandatory young driver surcharges and are often restricted from renting larger SUVs, vans, and luxury vehicles. A full, unrestricted driver’s license held for at least 12 months is required across all companies.

International visitors must present a valid license from their home country. If that license is not in English, an International Driving Permit or an approved English translation from the NZ Transport Agency is mandatory. You will need a physical credit card in the primary driver’s name for the security deposit hold; debit cards are generally not accepted for the hold, even if they can be used for final payment. Companies typically place a hold of $200 to $500 on your card until the vehicle is returned, so ensure sufficient available credit. A passport is required for identification, and if your home address differs from what appears on your license, a second form of identification may be requested. Larger vehicles such as eight-seater vans do not require special license endorsements in New Zealand, as a standard car license remains valid.

Pickup & Return Process for One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

The rental car counters at Auckland Airport are conveniently located in the arrivals hall of the international terminal, directly after you clear customs and walk into the public meet-and-greet area. Domestic terminal passengers can reach the same counters via a short signposted walkway. All major brands operate desks here, so there is no shuttle bus required — simply walk to your chosen supplier, complete the paperwork, and collect your vehicle from the adjacent parking structure.

At pickup, present your booking confirmation, driver’s license, International Driving Permit if required, passport, and credit card. Perform a thorough vehicle inspection before driving away; photograph any existing scratches, dents, or windshield chips with your phone and ensure they are noted on the condition report. The fuel policy for nearly all one way rentals is full-to-full, meaning you collect the car with a full tank and must return it full. Keep your fuel receipt from the final fill-up as proof. Returning the vehicle at your destination city follows that location’s specific instructions, which your supplier provides at pickup. After-hours returns are available at most major depots — you will park in the designated rental bay and drop the keys in a secure box. Late returns typically incur a grace period of 29 minutes before an extra day’s charge applies.

Best Times to Book One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

Booking in advance is the most reliable way to secure competitive rates and guarantee vehicle availability for your preferred drop-off location. International visitors should aim to book at least six to eight weeks before travel for shoulder season trips and three to four months ahead for December through February, when demand peaks dramatically. The Christmas-New Year period sees rental vehicles across all categories booked out, and one way availability becomes especially scarce for popular routes heading south.

The lowest rates typically appear for bookings made midweek, with Tuesday and Wednesday often offering the best pricing. School holiday periods — mid-December to late January, mid-April, and late September to early October — see significant price spikes. Major events such as the Auckland Lantern Festival in February and the Queenstown Winter Festival in June create concentrated demand that pushes one way rates higher on affected routes. Last-minute availability is genuinely rare during summer, though winter travelers can sometimes secure cancellations. Compare rates across multiple suppliers, as one way drop-off fees vary significantly, and an apparent bargain daily rate can be offset by a much higher relocation surcharge.

💡 Insider tip: If your travel dates are flexible, look at rentals that begin on a Wednesday — fleet turnover patterns at Auckland Airport tend to create marginally better one way availability and pricing midweek.

Driving One Way Car Rental in Auckland Airport (AKL) — Local Tips

New Zealand roads are well-maintained but can feel narrow and winding if you are arriving from a country with wide multi-lane highways. State Highway 1 south of Auckland is a modern motorway initially, but once you pass the Bombay Hills, the roads become undivided and require overtaking on the opposite side of the road — something international visitors should approach with caution. Parking in Auckland city center is expensive and spaces are tight; most parking buildings have height restrictions around 1.9 to 2.1 meters, which is relevant if you have rented a larger SUV. In smaller towns and at scenic stops, parking is generally free and plentiful.

Fuel stations are frequent along main highways but can be sparse in remote areas like the central North Island's Thermal Explorer Highway. Fill up whenever your tank drops to half if you are traveling through rural regions. There are toll roads on the Northern Gateway north of Auckland and the Tauranga Eastern Link; these use automatic number plate recognition and must be paid online within five days at nzta.govt.nz — they are not paid at toll booths. The open road speed limit is 100 km/h, reduced to 50 km/h in urban areas, and police strictly enforce limits. For navigation, Google Maps works reliably, but downloading offline maps is essential as cellular coverage drops out in many scenic areas. During winter months between June and August, the Desert Road and sections around National Park can receive snowfall and ice, so carry chains and check conditions before crossing the central plateau.

👉 Rent a GPS unit from your supplier or rely on your smartphone with an offline map downloaded to navigate confidently through mobile black spots.

Popular Routes and Destinations with One Way Car Rental from Auckland Airport (AKL)

The freedom of one way rental opens up some of New Zealand's most iconic road trips. Here are the most popular routes travelers take from Auckland Airport, each offering a distinct experience of the country.

  • Rotorua (Geothermal Wonderland): 220 km, approximately 2 hours 45 minutes. The road is fully sealed highway through rolling farmland. Stop at Tirau for a coffee at its famously corrugated iron buildings. Parking is abundant at Rotorua’s geothermal parks.
  • Wellington (Capital City via the Heart of the North Island): 640 km, approximately 7 hours 30 minutes. State Highway 1 is the main route, with the Desert Road section offering spectacular volcanic plateau views of Mount Ruapehu. The Taihape and Bulls rest areas provide good facilities. City parking in Wellington requires a parking app; book accommodation with parking included.
  • Napier (Art Deco Wine Country): 415 km, approximately 4 hours 45 minutes. Take SH1 south to Taupō then SH5 east. The landscape transitions from lake to vineyard. Rest in Taupō for lake views. Street parking in Napier is metered but readily available outside the compact city center.
  • Bay of Islands (Subtropical Northland Coast): 230 km, approximately 3 hours. Head north via the Northern Gateway Toll Road. Whangārei is a good rest point. Parking in Paihia is free in many visitor accommodation areas, making it an easy destination to explore by car.
  • Queenstown (Ultimate South Island Adventure): This requires a vehicle ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton and a 1,100 km drive from there. The total journey from Auckland, including the ferry, spans several days. The scenery is extraordinary, with photo stops at every turn. Book the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry well in advance. Queenstown offers paid parking in the town center, but your accommodation will typically provide a space.

One Way Car Rental vs Other Vehicle Categories — Which Should You Choose?

While one way car rental is a rental arrangement rather than a vehicle type, it is important to consider what vehicle category works best for your one way journey. The flexibility of not returning to Auckland means choosing the right vehicle for your entire route matters even more, as changing vehicles midway is not possible under one booking.

Comparison Factor Compact Sedan Mid-Size SUV People Mover/Van
Daily Rate (USD) $40 - $80 $65 - $130 $90 - $170
Passenger Capacity 5 adults 5 adults comfortably 8 adults
Luggage Space 2 large + 2 carry-on 3 large + 3 carry-on 4 large + 4 carry-on
Fuel Efficiency 6-8 L/100km 8-10 L/100km 10-13 L/100km
Road Suitability Sealed roads only, limited on gravel Excellent on all surfaces Good on highways, wide turning circle
Best For Solo travelers, couples, short trips Families, mixed terrain routes, winter driving Large groups, multi-generational family trips

Frequently Overlooked Details When Renting One Way Car Rental

Several details routinely catch travelers off guard and are worth addressing before you confirm your booking. Insurance excess amounts on basic packages are substantially higher than what many overseas visitors expect, typically ranging from $2,500 to $4,000. Mileage limits on one way rentals are almost always unlimited, but a small number of deeply discounted promotional rates impose a cap of 200 km or 300 km per day before excess charges of around $0.25 per kilometer apply — verify this at booking. Cross-border travel on rental vehicles from New Zealand to Australia is not permitted, and taking a rental car on the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry between the North and South Islands is usually allowed, but you must inform your rental company in advance so the vehicle is expected at the destination port.

Additional equipment such as GPS units are available at $8 to $15 per day, child seats at $7 to $12 per day, and roof racks at a similar daily rate. Vehicles should be returned in a reasonably clean condition; excessive mud, sand, or interior soiling from beach trips or rural driving may incur cleaning fees of $50 to $150. Toll transponders are not standard in New Zealand rental fleets — you must manage toll payments yourself through the NZTA website. Breakdown assistance is generally included, but confirm that the coverage extends to remote areas and covers call-out fees for issues like flat batteries or keys locked inside.

Pros and Cons of Renting One Way Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

Choosing a one way rental represents a trade-off between maximum itinerary flexibility and higher upfront costs. Understanding the advantages and drawbacks will help you decide if this is the right choice for your New Zealand trip.

Advantages:

  • Complete itinerary freedom — you are not constrained by a loop-back requirement, which is invaluable in a country with linear geography
  • Significant time savings, potentially reclaiming one or two full days that would otherwise be spent driving back to Auckland
  • The option to fly out of cities like Christchurch or Queenstown dramatically expands the scope of a two-week trip
  • No backtracking means you experience a greater variety of landscapes and regions
  • Ideal for relocation specials during off-peak seasons, which can slash rental costs

Potential Drawbacks:

  • One way drop-off fees add between $75 and $350 to your rental cost, making it more expensive than a return-to-origin booking
  • Vehicle choice is sometimes more limited, particularly for one way rentals to smaller regional depots
  • High season availability is tighter, and last-minute one way bookings during summer are both expensive and difficult to secure
  • The ferry cost and logistics for crossing between islands adds planning complexity and expense

Money-Saving Tips for One Way Car Rental Rentals at Auckland Airport (AKL)

Securing the best possible rate on a one way rental requires a strategic approach. Implement these practical tips to keep costs under control.

  • Book early during high season: Rates for December through February increase sharply as availability shrinks. Lock in your booking three to four months in advance.
  • Look for relocation deals: Rental companies occasionally offer heavily discounted rates on vehicles that need to be moved to a different depot. These appear with little notice, so check regularly a week or two before your intended travel dates if you are flexible.
  • Join loyalty programs before booking: Avis Preferred, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, and Europcar Privilege are free to join and often unlock member-only rates and discounts of 5% to 10%.
  • Check for airline and corporate discounts: If you belong to any frequent flyer program, professional association, or corporate benefits scheme, you may have access to negotiated rental rates that waive or reduce one way fees.
  • Bundle flight and car rental: Booking platforms frequently offer package discounts when you reserve your flight and rental car together. The savings can offset a significant portion of the one way surcharge.
  • Decline add-ons you already own: Bring your own child seat if traveling with young children, and use your smartphone for GPS navigation to avoid daily equipment fees.
  • Refuel just before returning the vehicle: With full-to-full fuel policies, refueling within a kilometer or two of the return depot ensures you do not pay the supplier's marked-up refueling rate.

👉 Compare one way car rental rates for your dates at Auckland Airport and lock in the best available price today.

About Auckland Airport (AKL)

Auckland Airport, New Zealand’s busiest and largest international gateway, serves as the arrival point for the vast majority of international visitors. Located 20 km south of Auckland’s city center, the airport connects travelers to the entire country through a network of domestic flights and, critically for renters, direct access to State Highways 1 and 20. The airport operates two terminals — international and domestic — linked by a walkway, with the rental car counters situated within a few minutes’ walk of the arrivals areas. As of 2026, the airport handles approximately 16 million passengers annually, with significant peaks during the southern hemisphere summer.

Having a rental car transforms the Auckland Airport experience from simply a transit point into the starting line of an adventure. Within 30 minutes of leaving the terminal, you can be on a black-sand surf beach on the west coast or sampling wines on Waiheke Island via a short ferry ride with your vehicle. The best seasons to visit are late spring through early autumn — October to April — when the days are long and road conditions are at their most favorable. Annual events that tighten rental availability include the Auckland Anniversary Day regatta in late January, Pasifika Festival in March, and the New Zealand International Film Festival in July and August. Book your one way rental well ahead if your travel coincides with these dates to avoid disappointment.

👉 Reserve your one way car rental at Auckland Airport now and start your New Zealand road trip the moment you land.

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Rental at Auckland Airport (AKL)

Daily rates for a one-way rental from Auckland Airport typically start around $35 to $50 for a compact economy car. Mid-size sedans and SUVs often range from $55 to $90 per day. The final price depends heavily on the drop-off location; returning the vehicle to a distant city like Wellington or Christchurch incurs a significant one-way surcharge, which can be a flat fee added to your total. Booking in advance almost always secures a better rate than arranging a one-way rental on arrival.

The most affordable option is usually a compact hatchback or economy car from major suppliers like Budget or Avis. However, 'cheapest' needs to factor in the one-way fee. A small car rented for a drop-off in Hamilton might have a low surcharge, while a relocation rental deal, where you drive a vehicle back to its home base for a heavily discounted rate, can be the absolute cheapest. These deals are often limited to specific routes and timeframes, requiring flexibility.

Yes, a security deposit is mandatory. If using a credit card, a hold of approximately $200 to $500 is placed on the card, covering the insurance excess. Debit card users often face a higher hold, potentially $500 to $800, and must meet stricter identification requirements. The funds are frozen for the rental duration and released upon the car's safe return. Ensure your card has sufficient available balance to avoid issues at the pickup counter.

Absolutely, one-day hires are common. A popular route is collecting a car at Auckland Airport and dropping it in a nearby city like Hamilton or Tauranga. Be aware that the one-way drop fee can make a single-day rental relatively expensive on a per-day basis. Unlimited mileage is standard, so you are free to cover the distance directly. Book a full 24-hour cycle for the best value, as late returns can trigger extra hourly charges.

Yes, renting for a month or more unlocks substantial savings. Extended one-way rentals of 28 days or more often have significantly reduced daily rates, sometimes dropping to $20-$30 per day for an economy car, and the one-way drop fee is frequently waived or heavily discounted on long-term hires. Rental companies are incentivized to keep cars moving, so a month-long booking that relocates a vehicle is a win-win, offering you the lowest total cost.

You will find a broad selection, from compact Toyota Corollas and Hyundai i30s to mid-size SUVs like the Toyota RAV4. For one-way trips, popular choices with good fuel economy and reliability are always in stock. Availability of specific models like a larger 4WD for crossing to the South Island or a minivan for family groups can be guaranteed by booking in advance. The vehicle you receive will be in the same class, but not always the exact make and model shown online.

Yes, and it is the default. The vast majority of rental cars in New Zealand are automatic, matching local driving preferences. This is a relief for visitors from North America or Asia not used to manual 'stick shift' cars. If you specifically want a manual transmission for a road trip, you will need to request it specially, and options are very limited, usually to a few sportier or budget-conscious models.

A standard compact car seats 5 adults and fits 1 large suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. A full-size sedan provides more legroom and trunk space for 2 large suitcases. For 5 adults with luggage and ski gear, an SUV is essential. A minivan can seat 8 people and still take 3 large bags. It is vital to check the 'passenger and luggage capacity' guide on your booking page to avoid an unsafe, overloaded vehicle.

Yes, baby capsules, child seats, and booster seats are available for rent. Booking them in advance is non-negotiable, as inventory is limited. Expect to pay around $25 to $40 per rental for a child seat. New Zealand law requires children under 7 to be in an approved restraint. You are permitted and encouraged to fit the seat yourself to ensure your child's safety, as staff will typically point out the anchorage points but leave the secure fitting to you.

GPS units are an add-on, usually costing $5 to $10 per day. Many modern rental cars now include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, allowing you to project your phone's map app onto the car's screen. Data coverage can be patchy outside of cities, so if you rely on a phone, download offline Google Maps for your route. A standalone GPS unit from the rental company is a reliable backup for remote areas.

The minimum age is 21 for most companies. If you are between 21 and 24, a young driver surcharge of roughly $15 to $25 per day applies. Not all vehicle types are available to young drivers; luxury cars, large SUVs, and performance models are usually restricted. A full license held for at least one year is also a standard requirement for any renter, regardless of age.

It is possible, but it is significantly more restrictive. Major companies may accept debit cards, but often only with proof of a return travel ticket and a second form of ID. The security hold is taken directly from your bank account, not just a credit card's limit, so those funds are unavailable for a week or more after the rental. A credit card makes the pickup process seamless and is strongly recommended.

If your overseas license is in English, you do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Licenses in other languages require an official English translation from an approved service or an IDP. You must carry your physical home license, plus the IDP or translation, at all times while driving. Digital copies on a phone are not legally acceptable and will result in a fine if presented to police.

No. Rental companies require a full, unrestricted driver's license that has been valid for at least 12 months. Learner permits, provisional, and restricted licenses are not accepted under any circumstances. This policy is strict and validated at the counter. If a booking is made by a full license holder, they are the only person authorized to drive; they cannot add a restricted license holder as an additional driver.

Your rental includes basic third-party liability insurance and a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with an excess. This means if the car is damaged, your maximum financial liability is capped at the excess amount, typically between $1,500 and $3,000. It does not cover damage to the roof, underbody, tires, or windshield unless you purchase a more comprehensive package. Personal belongings are also not covered.

It is highly advisable. New Zealand's roads include narrow, winding highways and unsealed gravel sections where windshield chips from loose stones are common. A full protection plan, often called 'Zero Excess Cover,' reduces your liability to $0 for most damage. Given that a single chip repair can cost $200 and a new windshield well over $600, the daily cost of the extra cover provides strong peace of mind and financial security.

The excess, or deductible, is the maximum dollar amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket for damage repairs. If you have a standard policy with a $2,000 excess and cause $3,000 of damage, you pay $2,000. If the damage is only $500, you pay $500. This liability applies to each separate incident. Pre-purchasing excess reduction insurance lowers this amount, potentially to zero.

No, tires and windshields are typically excluded from standard inclusions. Given the high incidence of stone chips on New Zealand roads, this is a critical gap. A broken windshield from a thrown stone is the most common claim. Comprehensive or premium coverage packages are the only way to cover these items. Without it, you are liable for the full cost of a replacement tire or windshield repair, which you must pay directly when returning the car.

The rental car counters for all major companies are located in the arrivals hall of both the domestic and international terminals. After completing paperwork, you walk to the adjacent multi-level parking garage to collect your vehicle. Off-airport providers, often offering lower rates, operate a continuous free shuttle bus. Their pickup zone is just outside the arrivals exit, and the ride to their nearby depot takes about 5 minutes.

This depends entirely on the drop-off branch. Major city-center and airport locations often have a secure key-drop box for after-hours returns, especially if you notify them in advance. However, smaller regional depots typically do not. You must check the specific branch's operating hours when booking. If an after-hours return is not possible, you are responsible for the vehicle's security until the branch officially reopens.

The standard policy is 'full-to-full'. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Pre-paid fuel options exist where you pay for a full tank upfront and can return it empty, but this is almost never good value unless you can estimate the exact distance. Missing even a single bar on the fuel gauge will result in a refueling charge at a premium rate per liter, plus a service fee.

For on-airport brands like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar, no shuttle is needed; you walk to the cars directly from the terminal. For lower-cost providers such as Ezi Car Rental and Go Rentals, a quick, free shuttle bus service is required. The pickup area is clearly marked outside the arrivals hall, with shuttles arriving every few minutes. The transfer to their nearby premises takes less than 10 minutes.

A standard sedan or SUV is perfect for sealed state highways and city driving. However, for one-way trips venturing onto gravel roads or alpine passes, like the road to Milford Sound, a 4WD provides far better stability. Rental contracts often prohibit driving on unsealed roads in standard cars. Always choose a vehicle matched to the most rugged terrain on your planned route, not just the airport collection point.

Yes, most major rental companies explicitly allow ferry crossings, making a one-way trip from Auckland to Christchurch via Wellington feasible. You must arrange your own ferry ticket for the vehicle and return the car to the company's depot in the destination city on the other side. You are not allowed to just drop the car at the ferry terminal. Confirm the policy with your provider, as some budget operators restrict cross-strait travel.

The Northern Gateway Toll Road on SH1 north of Auckland and the Tauranga Eastern Link are electronic toll roads with no cash booths. Your rental car's number plate is automatically photographed. Most rental companies offer a prepaid electronic tag service, or they will bill your credit card for the toll plus a small admin fee, maybe $2 to $3 per trip. You can also pay the toll yourself online within five days.