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| Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tamworth Airport (TMW) |
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| Tamworth CBD |
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| Tamworth Westdale |
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On average, car rentals in Tamworth cost around AUD $89 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from AUD $42 per day.
Don't just grab a car at the airport. Compare prices for city and Westdale depots, as they can be 10-15% cheaper. A $25 taxi ride to an off-airport office could save you a good chunk of cash on longer rentals.
For the Country Music Festival or school holidays, book your car months in advance as vehicles sell out and prices skyrocket. For quieter times, it's still smart to book ahead, but it can be worth checking prices again closer to your trip in case a better deal pops up.
If you're renting for five days or more, look for weekly rates. They often work out much cheaper than paying the daily price over and over.
Save a few bucks on petrol. Use a fuel price app to find the cheapest pump in the area, and grab a fuel discount voucher when you do your grocery shopping at a major supermarket.
| Area | Parking Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tamworth CBD | Time-limited street parking | 1-2 hour limits on Peel Street and surrounding blocks during business hours |
| Centrepoint Shopping Centre | Free customer parking | Time limits apply (usually 3 hours) |
| Tamworth Regional Entertainment Centre | Free parking | Large car park for events and shows |
| Tamworth Regional Airport | Short-term and long-term parking available | Electronic payment system at exit |
| Oxley Lookout | Free parking | Panoramic views of Tamworth and Peel Valley |
| Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre | Free parking | Ample parking including spaces for RVs and coaches |
Central Tamworth has a mix of free time-limited spaces (1-2 hours) and all-day areas.
Payment is not required for car spaces in most areas, but time limits are enforced Monday-Friday (8:30 AM-5:30 PM).
RV and caravan spaces are available at designated areas including the Visitor Centre as well as some larger shopping centres.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 40 km/h in school zones during designated times (8-9:30 AM and 2:30-4 PM school days).
Traffic flow: Peel Street (main street) can become congested during business hours. Consider using parallel streets for quicker north-south travel.
Roundabouts: Common throughout Tamworth. Always give way to vehicles already in the roundabout, especially from your right.
School zones: Strictly enforced using fixed speed cameras in some locations.
Heavy vehicles: Tamworth has designated heavy vehicle routes. Be aware of trucks, especially on the Oxley Highway and Kamilaroi Highway.
Railway crossings: Several level crossings exist in Tamworth. Always stop at flashing signals.
Country Music Festival: During January's festival, temporary road closures affect the CBD, particularly around Peel Street for street performances.
Tolls: There are no toll roads in or around Tamworth or anywhere in North West NSW. Tolls only apply near Sydney and Brisbane.
Get a rental car so you can get to:
Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre
Oxley Lookout – views
Nundle – gold mining village
Manilla – paragliding capital
Barraba – silo art
Lake Keepit State Park – fishing, camping, boating
When should I book a rental car for the Tamworth Country Music Festival? Book at least 3-4 months in advance. Vehicles are in extremely high demand and often sell out completely during the festival period (mid-late January).
Is there a charge for parking at Tamworth Regional Airport? The first 2 hours are free, then charges apply. The maximum daily rate is approximately $12 for short-term and $10 for long-term parking.
Can I pick up a rental car in Tamworth and drop it off in Sydney? Yes, one-way rentals to major centres like Sydney are generally available but incur one-way fees (usually $150-300 depending on the company and vehicle).
What type of vehicle is best for exploring around Tamworth? A standard sedan is sufficient for most attractions. If planning to visit national parks or more remote areas, consider an SUV for better ground clearance where permitted by your rental agreement.
Are there toll roads around Tamworth? No, there are no toll roads in or around Tamworth or anywhere in North West NSW. Tolls only apply near Sydney and Brisbane.
How far in advance should I book a rental car for regular (non-festival) visits to Tamworth? For standard periods, booking 2-3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient. For school holidays or when major events are scheduled at the entertainment centre or AELEC, book 4-6 weeks ahead.
Is it possible to rent larger vehicles like minivans or 12-seater buses in Tamworth? Yes, larger vehicles are available but in limited numbers. For minivans, 12-seater buses or similar group transport, book well in advance (6+ weeks) and be prepared to pay premium rates.