Can I use Philippine Driver's License during my visit?

[kermitmd]

Dear folks. Finally, our recce trip this June 2013 are all set up.

I would like to ask for some advice from you guys. Is it possible for me to use my Driver's License (Philippines) in New Zealand?

I would like to rent a small car (Yaris is OK but I am not sure if I would fit in as I am 6ft tall.) so we can visit some places (with the help of GPS and a bit of courage) if possible.

Another thing is, if ever I am allowed to rent and drive a car, how and where should I park the car when we are in the hotel? Kindly enlighten me of the options and the estimated daily cost.

Your advice would be much appreciated. Thanks a lot!

[Dave in NZ]

Yes you can drive in New Zealand with a licence you have gained in your own country as long as it is in english or you have a translation . You can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months before you need to get a NZ licence. The links will explain more. Pay particular note here in the 2nd link about translating your licence

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/resi...riving-nz.html

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/resi...anslators.html

[batgirl1001]

Since your driving license is in English, you need not do anything more to rent a car in NZ. You are allowed to drive up to a max of 1 year on your driving license after which you need to convert it to a NZ license. More importantly, you need a credit card to rent a car. Most major car companies do not like to rent without a credit/debit card.

A yaris should be small but comfy enough for a 6-footer. But it is usually not a cheaper car to rent given that it is new. The older version here is called a vitz. For the rates you pay for a yaris, you are better off renting a sylphy, tiida or other similar types and then you'll get more legroom.

[JandM]

About parking, it depends. Some hotels have private car parks - if so, this will be mentioned on their website. Otherwise, you can ask them where they suggest - a public car park or parking on a street nearby, probably. Your car hire charge will include insurance, so don't be too worried about the car. But don't leave valuables inside it when it is unattended.

[kermitmd]

Thank you very much JandM, batgirl and Dave! I saw over the internet that some areas of interest does not have bus routes so I am considering to drive. 10 days would be definitely too short to explore public transport routes.

Will try to rent car and proceed with the snow-hunt then. Maybe Mt. Ruapehu? I think June would be winter season so it would be a good first-time for my kids (and myself!).

[bulu]

I was charged $20 per day for parking when I was staying in a hotel in Auckland CBD. I was told that is pretty standard.

My two favorite car rentals are gorentals and aceRentals. I can usually get good cars (ie. Toyota Corolla or Nissan Tilda) for between $29 - $35 per day (10 days rate). These are decent sized cars and very nice to drive. PM me for Promotional Codes which can get you 5-25% off the normal rates.

[JandM]

We used Apex, and were very happy with the service. There's a range of sizes of car available.

[former_epec_sg]

Hi kermitmd,

Goodluck to your journey. Btw, may i know what university you attended in the philippines?