Auckland is a magical city: with a beautiful skyline, plenty of exciting volcanic and mountainous landscapes, and a rugged coastline further afield, you could have it all without ever having to leave the city boundaries. But, it’s also the northern metropolitan hub to a wider landscape - New Zealand is renowned worldwide for being home to some incredibly beautiful natural sights, and you’ll likely want to explore it all while on holiday here.
Pick up your Hertz rental car from Auckland Downtown and head off on an adventure you’ll never forget. Whether you’re staying in and around Auckland itself, or you’ll go on to travel the rest of the North Island before heading across to the South Island, you can do it all easily, with a rental car.
Adventure from Auckland, with Hertz
It’s no secret that New Zealand is frequently used as a backdrop for some serious blockbuster films. With mountainous surroundings, misty lakes, and stunning coastal regions, there is no country quite like it, which is why many film directors venture here to film their latest movie.
One of the most famed movie series of all time, ‘The Lord of the Rings’ as well as ‘The Hobbit’, was filmed all over New Zealand. From the misty mountains of Queenstown and Milford Sounds to the depths of Mordor near Taupo, there are locations across the country that you’ll likely recognize. One of these attractions is just a two-hour drive from Auckland Downtown, making it an easy trip for a day adventure. Hobbiton is one of the most famous movie sets in the world, and fans flock here all year round to see what it was like in this mythical village. Learn about what life was like for the Hobbits of Hobbiton and the famous movie franchise; take pictures, try the food, and the drink, and immerse yourself in this mythical realm.
Just a short drive either from Hobbiton or from Auckland Downtown is Rotorua. Rotorua is a popular tourist destination due to the plethora of activities here, but it’s also a town that gives a fantastic insight into the geothermal activity of New Zealand, as well as the Māori history and culture. You can relax in the geothermal hot springs, take in the wonder of the geysers, or set out to experience traditional Māori life, either through a traditional stay or in one of the many museums throughout the town.
Explore Auckland in your Rental Car
Of course, for many of you, you’ll want to explore Auckland city itself before venturing further afield.
The city itself is well worth a day exploring, with the harbour and wharf area, the Sky Tower, and Mount Wellington all being must-see tourist attractions.
The beaches around Auckland are also something special. Piha, for example, is the home of New Zealand surfing, and it is particularly beautiful. The wild, rough seas, the incredible Lion’s Rock, and the glorious black sanded beach are just spectacular to look at and admire. The surf is wild, so only go in if you are experienced, but for those that want a summer dip, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during these warmer months.
New Zealand is a fantastic place for a once in a lifetime adventure. There is nothing quite like the wild and rugged coastline, mountainous landscapes, epic glacier lakes, and so much more. It’s easy to see why many choose to come to Auckland to begin their New Zealand adventure. Choose to stay in the city centre itself, or head off onto what is likely to be an incredible road trip: the two islands of New Zealand are worth exploring. We can’t wait for you to see it all, starting from your visit to Hertz Auckland Downtown.
