Do I need 4-wheel drive in New Zealand?

Question

I will be in New Zealand for about two weeks in late March and will be renting car. I am starting in Auckland and will end my trip in Queenstown. Do I need a car with 4-wheel drive?

Answer 1

Nah, the roads you will be driving on are some of NZ n=main roads which are sealed.

You may want to get a 4 wheel drive if youre wanting to do some off road driving or not take the normal simple route to Queenstown

Answer 2

Not unless you plan on doing some off-roading and then you may find the rental company forbids you from doing it in anycase.

Roads here are excellent

Answer 3

Depending on what type of 4 wheel drive you are thinking off.  You really don't need one to just trip around to the places you are relating to.  But, of course, if you want to 'look good' in a 'not needed' SUV, sure, go for it but it will cost you in petrol/diesel.