Long road trips are one of the best ways to explore the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand and Australia. From cruising along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to winding through the Southern Alps near Queenstown, the journey can be just as memorable as the destination. However, with rising fuel prices and long distances between towns in both countries, saving gas is a top priority for many travellers.
Whether you’re using your own vehicle or renting a car in New Zealand or Australia, a little planning and smart driving can help stretch each tank of fuel further. In this guide, we’ll share 10 practical gas-saving tips that will help you travel longer distances without draining your budget.
10 Tips to Get the Most Out of a Tank of Gas in New Zealand and Australia
1. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Rapid Acceleration
Aggressive driving habits such as sudden braking, hard acceleration, and speeding burn significantly more fuel. According to the Australian Government’s Your Fuel Consumption Guide, smooth and steady driving can reduce fuel use by up to 25%. Maintaining a steady pace not only helps with fuel efficiency but also makes for a more relaxing road trip.
2. Keep Your Speed in Check
Driving at high speeds increases fuel consumption dramatically. For instance, fuel efficiency typically drops sharply once you exceed 100 km/h. On long open stretches of road in New Zealand and Australia, it’s tempting to speed up,but sticking to the speed limit is better for your wallet and your safety.
3. Use Cruise Control on Highways
When driving long distances on flat highways, cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, improving fuel efficiency. This is particularly useful on Australia’s long outback stretches and New Zealand’s motorways. Just avoid cruise control on steep, winding roads where frequent gear changes are necessary.
4. Lighten Your Load
Every extra kilogram in your car requires more fuel to move. If you’re packing for a long road trip, avoid overloading the boot or roof racks. Items stored on the roof create additional drag, which can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 25% at highway speeds. If you must carry extra luggage, a streamlined roof box is more efficient than an open roof rack.
5. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which means your car uses more fuel to move forward. Before setting off, make sure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This is especially important for long drives through varied terrain in New Zealand and Australia.
6. Plan Your Route and Avoid Traffic
Unnecessary detours and time spent idling in traffic can waste a lot of fuel. Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the most efficient route, and check for road closures or detours in advance. For more planning advice, check out this comprehensive road trip checklist to ensure a smooth journey.
7. Combine Short Trips
When sightseeing in towns or cities, try to group attractions together so you’re not constantly starting and stopping the engine. Short, frequent trips on a cold engine use significantly more fuel than longer, continuous drives.
8. Service Your Vehicle Before You Go
A well-maintained car runs more efficiently. Make sure the oil is changed, the air filter is clean, and spark plugs are in good condition. If you’re renting a car in New Zealand or Australia, most reputable rental companies ensure vehicles are serviced regularly, giving you peace of mind that you’re starting your journey in an efficient and safe vehicle.
9. Use Air Conditioning Wisely
Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, particularly at low speeds. On cooler days, consider using the vehicle’s ventilation system instead. At highway speeds, however, having windows fully down can create drag, so moderate use of air conditioning is usually more efficient.
10. Choose the Right Vehicle
The car you drive can make a big difference. Compact cars, hybrids, and newer models generally use less fuel than large SUVs or vans. If you’re renting, consider fuel-efficient options for your trip. You can also explore whether electric or hybrid rentals are available, especially in cities where charging stations are becoming more common. For inspiration on vehicle choice and travel style, see this guide to road tripping in 2025.
Conclusion
A road trip across New Zealand and Australia is an adventure of a lifetime, but fuel costs can quickly add up if you’re not careful. By adopting smarter driving habits, planning ahead, and considering your vehicle choice, you can make your fuel go further and your trip more affordable.
Whether you’re exploring New Zealand’s geothermal wonders in Rotorua or Australia’s coastal gems along the Sunshine Coast, these fuel-saving tips will help you focus on the journey rather than worrying about the next fuel stop. And if you’re planning to rent a car in New Zealand or Australia, keep these strategies in mind to maximise your mileage and minimise your costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does driving slower save fuel?
Yes. Driving at moderate speeds typically improves fuel efficiency. Speeds between 80–100 km/h are generally the most economical for most vehicles. Going significantly above the speed limit increases fuel consumption and reduces safety.
Does using cruise control help with fuel efficiency?
Absolutely. On long, flat highways, cruise control keeps your speed steady, which reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking. This results in smoother driving and better fuel economy.
Is it better to idle or turn off the engine when stopping?
If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s usually more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine rather than idle. Modern cars are designed to handle frequent restarts without excessive wear.
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