Car Rental at Christchurch Airport
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 02:02 on 2021-03-01. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
English
Currency
NZD
Country code
64
Traffic direction
Left-hand
Speed limit out of town
80 - 100 km/h
50 - 62 mi/h
Speed limit within town
30 - 60 km/h
19 - 37 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Airport Car Rental
The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch is one of the main gateways to everything that this majestic, sparsely populated region has to offer, as well as being an interesting destination in its own right. Continuing to admirably recover from the series of earthquakes that plagued the city at the beginning of the 2010s, it is home to a surprising number of landmarks and things to do and has many great places around it that are perfect for day trips. Here are three of them:
- International Antarctic Centre. One of the southernmost cities in the world, Christchurch is a global hub for the exploration of the relatively-nearby Antarctica. Shared by the New Zealandic, Italian, and American Antarctic programs, the International Antarctic Centre is a fascinating place to learn about the majestic seventh continent. Attractions include the experience of what an Antarctic field trip is like, a snow storm room, and even a rescue center for the kororā (or little blue penguin). Visit the centre’s website to find out about visiting.
- Orana Wildlife Park. The largest of its kind in New Zealand, Orana is a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the protection of threatened species. With minimal fencing and many of the animals roaming free, it feels more like a safari than a zoo (visitors, instead of animals, are kept inside portable cages where barriers are necessary). Some of Orana’s inhabitants include silverback gorillas, lions, and many native animals. It also has educational programs about conservation.
- Arthur’s Pass National Park. Named after a mountain pass in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, this is one of the largest and most popular nature reserves in the area. Retaining its original wilderness, Arthur’s Pass National Park is also a great place for climbing, hiking, skiing, or simply taking in the mountain views. Located about 135 km (84 miles) northwest of Christchurch, Arthur’s Pass takes less than two hours to reach and can thus be visited on a day trip (although there are opportunities for accommodation in and around the park). Other, smaller nature areas closer to Christchurch include the Torlesse Tussocklands Park and Waimakariri River Regional Park (both are on the way to Arthur’s Pass), as well as the Banks Peninsula to the east.
Top international routes
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Singapore
- Gold Coast
- Guangzhou
Main airlines
Air New Zealand, the countries flag carrier, provides service from the major cities of New Zealand and Australia in addition to Singapore. Jetstar Airways, Air New Zealand’s low-cost subsidiary, provides service from Auckland and Wellington in New Zealand and Melbourne and the Gold Coast in Australia.
Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier, provides service between Christchurch and the three largest cities in Australian, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Virgin Australia provides year-round service between the airport and Brisbane and Melbourne and seasonal service to Rarotonga and Sydney.
China South Airlines and Emirates serve international routes to Guangzhou in southern China and Dubai, respectively.
Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier, provides service between Christchurch and the three largest cities in Australian, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Virgin Australia provides year-round service between the airport and Brisbane and Melbourne and seasonal service to Rarotonga and Sydney.
China South Airlines and Emirates serve international routes to Guangzhou in southern China and Dubai, respectively.
Terminals
There is a single passenger terminal located at the intersection of two runways, which serves both local and international flights.
Location
Christchurch Airport is about 12 km (7.4 miles) from the city center. Memorial Avenue and Fendalton Road are the main streets connecting the airport to Christchurch.
Most popular types of rental car
- Large cars - from $29 per day
- Medium cars - from $22 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $45 per day
- Small cars - from $17 per day
- SUVs - from $46 per day
Car rental desks
The rental desks for those companies that are located at the airport are in the International arrivals hall across from the customs and biosecurity screening exit. The domestic Baggage Claim area is next to the desks.
The rental companies that are located outside of the airport all provide shuttles to their locations. These shuttles can be found outside of the Regional Lounge at the opposite side of the terminal (exit through Doors 1 or 2).
The rental companies that are located outside of the airport all provide shuttles to their locations. These shuttles can be found outside of the Regional Lounge at the opposite side of the terminal (exit through Doors 1 or 2).
Services and facilities
There are many restaurants, cafeterias, and bars, stores, ATMs, a stretch and relaxation area, a beauty salon, a fitness center, a lost and found office, and a prayer room. The airport is disabled friendly. The Luggage Solutions office, which provides luggage storage services, is located in the check-in hall. You can find more information on the airport's official website.
Nearest gas station
An Allied Fuel gas station is located right next to the airport, at 75 Orchard Rd., from which the rental car returns of the companies located at the airport is just one kilometer away. Lucky Rentals is even closer to the station. It is open 24/7.
For renters returning cars to companies that are not located at the airport, other gas stations may be more convenient. Those returning cars to GO Rentals or Discount Car Rentals are best served by a BP station located on the roundabout of Highway 1 and Harewood Rd, which is directly on the way to those companies’ locations.
If coming from the city center of Christchurch and returning a rental car to Hitch or Right Cars, A Z service station on Wairakei Rd. is the best station to use. If coming from the north along Highway 1, the previously mentioned BP station would be best. And if coming from the south along Highway 1 a Caltex station located at the intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 73, though a little further away, may be the best choice.
For renters returning cars to companies that are not located at the airport, other gas stations may be more convenient. Those returning cars to GO Rentals or Discount Car Rentals are best served by a BP station located on the roundabout of Highway 1 and Harewood Rd, which is directly on the way to those companies’ locations.
If coming from the city center of Christchurch and returning a rental car to Hitch or Right Cars, A Z service station on Wairakei Rd. is the best station to use. If coming from the north along Highway 1, the previously mentioned BP station would be best. And if coming from the south along Highway 1 a Caltex station located at the intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 73, though a little further away, may be the best choice.
Popular one-way rentals
- Auckland (1,075 km / 668 miles)
- Wellington (439 km / 273 miles)
- Queenstown (479 km / 297 miles)
Airport info
Christchurch Airport (CHC)
- IATA: CHC
- ICAO: NZCH
- Name: Christchurch Airport (CHC)
- Size: Large Airport
- Aircraft movements (per year): 94,955
- Passengers (per year): 6,439,703
- Distance from City: 5.6 miles / 9 km WNW of town
- Working hours: 24 hours a day
- Phone: +64 3 358 5029
- Email: info@cial.co.nz
Top 15 Locations near Christchurch Airport
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Car Rental at Blenheim Airport from $35.53 per day246.1 km / 152.9 miles away
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Car Rental at Nelson Airport from $21.48 per day253.0 km / 157.2 miles away
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Car Rental at Wellington Airport from $10.95 per day303.0 km / 188.3 miles away
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Car Rental at Wellington Inter Island Ferry Terminal from $34.57 per day307.8 km / 191.3 miles away
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Car Rental at Dunedin Airport from $31.75 per day328.3 km / 204.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Queenstown Airport from $14.72 per day351.7 km / 218.5 miles away
-
Car Rental at Palmerston North Airport from $45.83 per day433.8 km / 269.5 miles away
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Car Rental at Invercargill Airport from $37.63 per day466.8 km / 290.1 miles away
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Car Rental at New Plymouth Airport from $45.83 per day519.2 km / 322.6 miles away
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Car Rental at Napier Airport from $47.77 per day573.3 km / 356.2 miles away
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Car Rental at Rotorua Airport from $49.42 per day677.7 km / 421.1 miles away
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Car Rental at Tauranga Airport from $49.42 per day717.6 km / 445.9 miles away
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Car Rental at Auckland Airport from $10.80 per day748.0 km / 464.8 miles away
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Car Rental in Auckland Ponsonby from $14.73 per day764.1 km / 474.8 miles away
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Car Rental at Whangarei Airport from $39.06 per day876.0 km / 544.3 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
When are car rental prices cheapest at Christchurch Airport?
The cost of renting a car at Christchurch Airport depends on the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best deal.
Average Rental Price at Christchurch Airport
The cheapest time of the year to rent a vehicle at Christchurch Airport is August when prices for an Economy class start from $27.55. You can see that this is 37% cheaper than the yearly average and 66% cheaper than renting a car in November (when rental prices start at $80.86 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price. But remember that these are average numbers. The exact cost of your rental will depend on your rental length and on how far in advance you book the car. Enter your travel dates at the top of the page to see exact prices and offers!
What’s the most popular rental length at Christchurch Airport?
Travel length differs from one month to another: in June the average rental period is 13 days, while in October, the average rental period is only 3 days.
Average Rental Length
Which is the busiest car rental month at Christchurch Airport?
Travelers are most likely to rent a car at Christchurch Airport in January, while the fewest number of travelers rent in October.
Popularity by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snap Rentals | Toyota Vitz | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| yesaway | Toyota RAV4 | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Bargain Rental Cars | Mazda Demio | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Snap Rentals | Toyota Aqua | 5 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Discount Car Rentals New Zealand | Toyota Yaris | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| yesaway | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 3 | Large cars |
| Mode Car Rentals | Toyota RAV4 | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| yesaway | Subaru Forester 4WD | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Ezu Car Rental | Suzuki Swift | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| Ezu Car Rental | Kia Rio | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
FAQ
Is a Malaysian driver’s license valid for renting and driving in New Zealand?
As Malaysian driver’s licenses are in English, they are valid for renting and driving in New Zealand. Any customer with a driving license that is not in English, will have to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original driving license.
Where do I select glass and tire cover? Or is it covered under Full Coverage?
Yes, glass and tires are covered under Full Coverage. Customers can add Full coverage to their reservation on the booking page when making a reservation. If customers already have a booking with us, they can visit the My Booking page to add Full Coverage or they can get in touch with customer support for assistance.
Does the rental company only take credit/debit card details or do then actually charge the deposit when the customers pick up the car?
"If using a credit card to leave the deposit, the rental company will place a hold on it. This is not a charge and will not cause you to accrue interest. When using a debit card (when allowed) the deposit may be charged instead of just pre-authorized. If renting a car in a different currency than your bank account, this may mean that you may receive a slightly different amount at the end of the rental due to the currency conversion.
Can I take my rental car to the North Island?
Most rental companies in Christchurch allow you to visit the North Island, but there are different methods for this depending on the company. Some companies have locations on both sides of the Cook Straight and, therefore, require you to drop off your car in Picton and pick up a different one in Wellington. Other companies that don't have locations in these cities allow their cars to be taken on the ferries.
Can I rent a car at Christchurch Airport and return it in Queenstown or Auckland?
Yes, one-way rentals are possible, even to Auckland on the North Island (though you may have to switch vehicle when crossing the Cook Straight). There is an additional fee for this, but if you search using the location you'd like to drop the car off at, this fee will be included in the total cost.
Am I allowed to drive on beaches in New Zealand?
While there are some beaches that it is permissible to drive on, no rental company allows their cars to drive on a beach. Doing such will void your rental contract and any coverage you have which could lead to a hefty bill at the end.
Our Customers Reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic, verified, and trustworthy.
VH
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
September 21, 2021
We visited Christchurch to take my granddaughter to the dentist and spent a little time looking at the shops.
BH
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
September 19, 2021
Christchurch is a lovely place to visit
MW
New Zealand
Mitsubishi Pajero
September 18, 2021
Great motels
Mt Cook : Aoraki Court Mote
Methven: Methven Lodge & BnB
Fairlie : McKenzie motels
PT
New Zealand
Nissan March
July 15, 2021
Good value & problem free
CS
Australia
Nissan Teana
July 15, 2021
As a first trip to NZ, we found the Arthur's Pass late night check-in accommodation options really convenient getting from East to West Coast.
RM
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris 2013
July 13, 2021
I drove from Christchurch to Tekapo via Geraldine. It was getting dark but it looked quite scenic after I turned off for Geraldine. I highly recommend staying at The Chalet at Tekapo. It's right on the lake, a few minutes walk from the old church. I saw spectacular sunrises over the lake. The hosts were friendly and helpful. The drive from Tekapo to Queenstown was beautiful as I drove past trees which were totally in frost at midday and I got amazing photos. The Novotel Lakeside in Queenstown was very good, perfectly located for the town centre. Vudu has yummy healthy food and Fergberger is a must do. I had a delicious venison burger.
ND
Australia
Toyota Corolla
June 29, 2021
Christchurch airport
Very easy to find the rental deck
And car in carpark
PM
Australia
Nissan Wingroad
June 28, 2021
The self serve gas station on Wairakei Road was a very handy place to fill up prior to returning the car.
SF
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
June 22, 2021
Akaroa is definitely worth a visit. It is located in a beautiful inlet and has a quaint, timeless quality about it. For anybody who enjoys things-French, you will enjoy the street and business names.
AC
New Zealand
Nissan Tiida
June 10, 2021
Great exploring Chch
KC
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
June 4, 2021
Spent two full days in Christchurch during fine and cold Autumn weather, then drove South to Dunedin for three days, stopping in at Temuka, Timaru and Oamaru on the way.
MK
New Zealand
Mazda Demio
May 26, 2021
The Chinese staff is easy to contact. It seems the rental company is owned by Chinese.
KL
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
May 18, 2021
Devils punchbowl falls in Arthurs pass is worth a look.
About 40 mins return from carpark
WN
New Zealand
Nissan Tiida
April 25, 2021
Great value for money
DM
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
April 23, 2021
Christchurch absolutely 💯 awesomeness 👌
SA
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
April 16, 2021
Lots to see, great cafes
MN
New Zealand
Toyota RAV4
April 15, 2021
Travelled around chritchurch and also a day trip to Hanmer Springs. The car went smoothly
SC
New Zealand
Hyundai iMax
April 14, 2021
Great visit to Hanmer Springs, Forest Amble, Mini Putt, Powerhouse Cafe.
Selwyn Sounds Concert was excellent again.
DS
New Zealand
Toyota Aqua Hybrid
April 6, 2021
Akaroa and Banks Pennisula, just stunning!
RV
New Zealand
Suzuki Swift
April 6, 2021
Expect good service, be kind to those who help as they are doing their best for you.
Top 19 Suppliers at Christchurch Airport in 2021
Interrent
+6402102787307
73 Orchard Rd., Harewood Christchurch 8053 New Zealand
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00
USAVE
+64033582299 / +640508112233
170 Orchard Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8053
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:15
Tue:08:00-17:15
Wed:08:00-17:15
Thu:08:00-17:15
Fri:08:00-17:15
Sat:08:00-17:15
Sun:08:00-17:15
+6433584051 / 0508246784
155 Orchard Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8051
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:00
Tue:08:00-17:00
Wed:08:00-17:00
Thu:08:00-17:00
Fri:08:00-17:00
Sat:08:00-17:00
Sun:08:00-17:00
National
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
+64033579202
Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand
Working hours
Mon:07:00-22:00
Tue:07:00-22:00
Wed:07:00-22:00
Thu:07:00-22:00
Fri:07:00-22:00
Sat:07:00-22:00
Sun:07:00-22:00
Enterprise
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
$16 - $116
SIXT
+6436660026
Ground Floor, Airport Terminal, Rental Car Kiosk, 30 Durey Road, Christchurch 8053
$19 - $86
Keddy
+64033579202
CHRISTCHURCH INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL
$21 - $26
Working hours
Mon:07:00-22:00
Tue:07:00-22:00
Wed:07:00-22:00
Thu:07:00-22:00
Fri:07:00-22:00
Sat:07:00-22:00
Sun:07:00-22:00
Avis
033589661
Terminal Building
Working hours
Mon:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-00:30; 07:00-23:59
Budget
033570231
Terminal Building Christchurch Airport
Working hours
Mon:07:00-21:30
Tue:07:00-21:30
Wed:07:00-21:30
Thu:07:00-21:30
Fri:07:00-21:30
Sat:07:00-21:30
Sun:07:00-21:30
Routes Car & Truck Rentals
+6435951828
11-15 Logistics Drive Harewood Christchurch 8051
$16 - $25
Working hours
Mon:09:00-17:00
Tue:09:00-17:00
Wed:09:00-17:00
Thu:09:00-17:00
Fri:09:00-17:00
Sat:09:00-17:00
Sun:09:00-17:00
Alamo
+6433586554
Christchurch Airport
Working hours
Mon:08:00-16:30
Tue:08:00-16:30
Wed:08:00-16:30
Thu:08:00-16:30
Fri:08:00-16:30
Sat:08:00-16:30
Sun:08:00-16:30
+6468880032
28 Sheffield Cres Burnside, Burnside Christchurch 8053
$13 - $62
Alamo
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
$16 - $115
NUCarrentals
+640800800317 / +640800800312
521 Avonhead Rd,Avonhead,Christchurch, NA 8042
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:00
Tue:08:00-17:00
Wed:08:00-17:00
Thu:08:00-17:00
Fri:08:00-17:00
Sat:08:00-17:00
Sun:09:00-16:00
Ace Rent a car
6433603270 / 033603271
20 Abros Place
Goldcar
+34965233425 / +6402102787307
Wairakei Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00
Surprice
+6436660026
30 Durey Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
+64800808881 / +64092755110
8053, 791 Wairakei Road, Christchurch