Best Rental Car for a New Zealand Family Holiday

best rental cars for a family trip in New Zealand — from the Toyota RAV4 and Highlander SUVs to the 7-seat Alphard. Boot space, comfort and value compared.

Short answer: For most families in New Zealand, a mid-size SUV like the Toyota RAV4 is the sweet spot for boot space, comfort and fuel economy. Larger families or those with lots of luggage are better in a Toyota Highlander or a 7-seat Toyota Alphard, while a smaller family watching the budget can do well in a Toyota Camry sedan.

The right family car depends on three things: how many people, how much luggage, and how far you are driving. Here is how Yes Rentals' fleet lines up against each.

The best all-round family car: Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 (available in 2WD and AWD) is the car most families should look at first. It seats five comfortably, has a generous boot for suitcases and pushchairs, and the higher seating position makes long scenic drives less tiring. The AWD version adds confidence on wet, gravel or winter roads, which matters if your itinerary includes the South Island or ski country.

Best for: two adults and up to three children, road trips with mixed weather, families who want one car that does everything.

The most space: Toyota Highlander

If your RAV4 boot is looking tight, step up to the Toyota Highlander. It offers more interior room and a larger cargo area, so it suits families with older children, bulkier gear, or anyone combining a holiday with sports or outdoor equipment.

Best for: larger loads, taller passengers, longer touring holidays.

For bigger groups: Toyota Alphard (7 seats)

Travelling with grandparents, or two families together? The Toyota Alphard seats seven and is a genuine people mover, with easy access and comfortable second-row seating. For even larger parties, Yes Rentals also runs the Benz Valente (6 seats) and the Toyota Hiace in 10 and 12-seat versions.

Best for: multi-generational trips, small tour groups, families who want everyone in one vehicle.

The value pick: Toyota Camry

If you are a smaller family of three or four with modest luggage and you want to keep costs down, the Toyota Camry sedan is a comfortable, economical choice for motorway and city driving. It carries a family in comfort without the higher running cost of a larger SUV.

Best for: smaller families, city-based trips, budget-conscious travellers.

Which family car should you choose?

What is included for families

Every Yes Rentals booking comes with unlimited kilometres, so a full North and South Island family loop costs the same per day as short trips. You also get 24/7 roadside assistance, free cancellation if plans change, and free snow chain hire on rentals of 7 days or more for winter trips south. Rates start from $15 per day.

If you need child seats or have specific luggage requirements, mention it when you book so the team can confirm availability and fit the right vehicle to your family.

Booking tips for family travel

• Book the size you need up front. Upgrades at pickup depend on availability, so match the car to your group and bags when you reserve.
• Think about the boot, not just the seats. Suitcases, a pushchair and a chilly bin add up fast. When in doubt, size up.
• Consider AWD for winter or gravel. The RAV4 AWD is a small price for peace of mind on cold or unsealed roads.
• Use online check-in. It shortens your time at the counter, which is welcome when you are travelling with tired children.

FAQ

What is the best rental car for a family in New Zealand?

For most families the Toyota RAV4 offers the best balance of space, comfort and fuel economy. Larger families suit the Highlander or the 7-seat Alphard.

Can I rent a 7-seater in New Zealand?

Yes. Yes Rentals offers the 7-seat Toyota Alphard, plus 10 and 12-seat Toyota Hiace vans for bigger groups.

Are child seats available?

Ask when you book so the team can confirm availability and the right vehicle for your family.

Is there a distance limit on family road trips?

No. All Yes Rentals bookings include unlimited kilometres.

Booking a family holiday in New Zealand? Compare family cars and reserve with Yes Rentals from $15/day, with unlimited kilometres and 24/7 roadside assistance. Visit yesrentals.co.nz or call +64 3 420 2878.