For most people, New Zealand conjures images of majestic snow-capped mountains and verdant forest. However, New Zealand also has beautiful beaches and staggering coastlines. Travelling by hire car in New Zealand allows you to explore all aspects of this enchanting country.

Auckland is snugly situated between two stunning bays and offers breathtaking views over the coastline. The best viewpoint is from the Sky Tower. By cheap hire car in New Zealand, you can reach beaches at Kohimarama and Mission Bay.

A trip to the nation’s capital is essential. Wellington is an attractive city with an excellent shopping district and some historical points of interest. The brand new Te Papa museum is a great way to get a taste for the rest of the country. Beach lovers should head to Oriental Bay to lap up the gorgeous sunshine. If you can’t spend the day here then make sure you make a date to watch the sunset.

Rotorua is a firm favourite among tourists and a great place to explore by car rental. The area is a dramatic composition of lakes, geysers and volcanic, all of which intertwine with a deep rooted Maori culture.

The landscape is equally as captivating as you drive southwards. After viewing the Marlborough Sounds, take a road trip down the remote west coast to the Glacier Country. This is home to the Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier communities.

If you are in the mood for adventure, head to Queenstown where you can go bungee jumping, skydiving, canyon swinging and white water rafting. However, there are other more relaxing activities such as sampling the fine award-winning wines of Central Otago.