Car Rental Christchurch Airport (CHC)
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 02:01 on 2019-12-30. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
English
Currency
NZD
Country code
64
Average car rental length
8 days
Economy car rental price
$67.79 / per day
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
Get your rental car at Christchurch International Airport! Then head to the city, park outside the center, and go on a leisurely walk to appreciate the local atmosphere and architecture. Check out the art galleries, the Christchurch Arts Center, and the Canterbury Museum. Visit the International Antarctica Center to learn more about the fascinating continent that’s so close to New Zealand.
Drive to the nearby Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand’s only open-range zoo, and the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve where you’ll encounter lemurs, kiwis, iguanas, kakas, and other wildlife. Drive the beautiful Summit Road through Port Hills, and, if you’re up for a more thrilling adventure, go on a volcanic and geothermal tour.
Christchurch is a great place to visit, but the surrounding area has even more to offer, so why not get a longer-term car rental? You can head to the southernmost part of the South Island, which is the closest land to Antarctica, explore the Southern Alps, drive all the way to Picton to take the Interislander ferry to Wellington on the North Island, or visit the unbelievable sights around Lake Tekapo. You can even pick up your rental car at Christchurch Airport and drop it off in a different city. Start planning your vacation now!
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 $67 per day
- Medium cars - from $59 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $175 per day
- Small cars - from $73 per day
- SUVs - from $82 per day
Top car rental companies
- Go Rentals (Tel: +6433584051)
- Enterprise (Tel: +6433586554)
- Europcar (Tel: +64033579202)
- Keddy (Tel: +64033579202)
- RightCars (Tel: +6468880032)
- Alamo (Tel: +6433586554)
- Bargain Rental Cars (Tel: +640800566701)
- NuCarrentals (Tel: +640800800317 / +64021417556 / +646433482002 / +640800800312)
- Ace Rent a car (Tel: 6433603270 / 033603271)
- Goldcar (Tel: +34965233425 / +6402102787307 / +64021643649)
- Rhodium (Tel: +34965233425 / +6402102787307)
- Goldcar (Tel: +34965233425 / +6402102787307)
- Surprice (Tel: +6436660026)
- Lucky Rentals (Tel: +64800808881 / +64092755110)
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
- Airport name: Christchurch Airport (CHC)
- Airport type: Public / Civil / Military
- Airport Size: Large Airport
- Elevation AMSL: 37 m / 123 ft
- Runway Surface: Bitumen
- Aircraft movements (per year): 94,955
- Passengers (per year): 6,439,703
- Distance from City: 5.6 miles / 9 km WNW of town
- Airport Hours: 24 hours a day
- Phone: +64 3 358 5029
- Email: info@cial.co.nz
Top 14 Locations near Christchurch Airport
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Car Rental at Christchurch, Downtown from $57.55 per day
-
Car Rental at Blenheim Airport from $72.08 per day245.0 km / 152.2 miles away
-
Car Rental at Nelson Airport from $53.46 per day249.6 km / 155.1 miles away
-
Car Rental at Wellington Airport from $52.08 per day303.9 km / 188.9 miles away
-
Car Rental at Dunedin Airport from $24.40 per day328.0 km / 203.8 miles away
-
Car Rental at Queenstown Airport from $68.56 per day347.1 km / 215.7 miles away
-
Car Rental at Palmerston North Airport from $52.46 per day434.4 km / 270.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Invercargill Airport from $72.08 per day464.7 km / 288.8 miles away
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Car Rental at New Plymouth, from $52.46 per day516.4 km / 320.8 miles away
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Car Rental at Napier Airport from $52.46 per day574.6 km / 357.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Rotorua Airport from $52.46 per day677.1 km / 420.7 miles away
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Car Rental at Tauranga Airport from $52.22 per day716.6 km / 445.3 miles away
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Car Rental at Auckland Airport from $75.11 per day745.1 km / 463.0 miles away
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Car Rental at Whangarei Airport from $36.48 per day872.4 km / 542.1 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 $25.74. 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 $75.53 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 at Christchurch Airport
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.
Christchurch Airport Car Rental Popularity by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hitch Car Rentals | Mazda Demio | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Mitsubishi Outlander | 5 | 4 | SUVs |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Toyota RAV4 | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Toyota Estima | 4 | 4 | People Carriers/Vans |
| yesaway | Toyota Yaris | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Nissan Tiida 2009 | 4 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Mahindra XUV500 | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Hitch Car Rentals | Toyota Prius | 5 | 1 | Medium cars |
| yesaway | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 3 | Large cars |
FAQ
Should I rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
A majority of the ratings and reviews left by Discover Cars’ customers recommend renting a car (8.9 from 10 reviews).
What do you need to rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
In most cases, you need a driver’s license, passport or ID card, and a credit card (in the name of the main driver), and the booking voucher to rent a car. Some companies may have additional requirements (be sure to check the rental conditions).
On what side of the road do they drive in New Zealand?
Drivers must drive on the left side of the road.
Can I rent a car at 18 in New Zealand?
Yes, you can rent a car at the age of 18.
How old do you have to be to rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
You must be between 18 and 64 years old.
Can you rent automatic cars at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
Yes, automatic cars are available from Go Rentals, RightCars and NuCarrentals at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
Can I rent a car with a debit card?
Though most companies require a credit card to leave a deposit, some accept debit cards. Check the rental conditions for more information.
Can I rent a car without a credit card?
Most companies require a credit card to pick up the car. Some may accept debit cards or cash. Check the rental conditions for more information.
What car classes can I rent?
Small cars, Medium cars, Large cars, People Carriers/Vans and SUVs vehicle types are available at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
Can I rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC) with my home country’s driver's license (for example, U.S., U.K., or Australia)?
In most cases, a driver’s license from your home country is acceptable if it uses the Latin alphabet. In some cases, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check the rental conditions for more information.
If your driver’s license does not use the Latin alphabet, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
Do I need an International Driving Permit at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
In most cases, if your driver’s license uses the Latin alphabet, you can rent a car in at Christchurch Airport (CHC) without an International Driving Permit (IDP). In some cases, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check the rental conditions for more information.
If your driver’s license does not use the Latin alphabet, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
How much does it cost to rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
A rental car costs $90 per day, on average. The lowest daily price found in the past 48 hours was $58 at Go Rentals.
How much is car rental for a week?
The average price for a weekly rental at Christchurch Airport (CHC) is $630. In the past 48 hours, the lowest price for a weekly rental at Christchurch Airport (CHC) was $403.
What car rental companies are located at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
Go Rentals, RightCars and NuCarrentals can be found at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
What car rental companies are onsite (in terminal) at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
Europcar and Enterprise are located onsite at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
What car rental companies offer shuttle service at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
NuCarrentals and Alamo offer shuttle service to their location at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
Which car rental companies offer meet and greet at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
RightCars offers meet and greet service at Christchurch Airport (CHC).
What is the best car rental company at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
Ratings and reviews left by our users indicate that the best providers are Aerodrive Car Rental (9.1, 10 reviews), Europcar (8.6, 5 reviews) and Go Rentals (8.4, 7 reviews).
Our Customers Reviews
AS
United Kingdom
Mazda Demio
February 1, 2020
The bus service is good in Christchurch, if travelling further then a car is necessary
FM
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris
November 28, 2019
Christchurch is a city worth exploring and we had fun driving to Lyttleton and Diamond Harbour for some great hiking with spectacular views
AK
Cook Islands
Toyota Estima 2001
October 17, 2019
Christchurch is such a beautiful place it’s be a waste not to rent a car to get around and see it. Also the roads are pretty straight forward, nothing good ole google maps can’t gelp with
CT
Australia
Toyota Corolla Sedan
July 27, 2019
Go to the banks peninsula. Its beautiful.
VM
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla Sedan
July 24, 2019
This was my first time using a rental car. Alena in The Christchurch airport office made it such an amazing experience for me as I was stressing so much. Excellent service:)
DS
New Zealand
Nissan Tiida
July 22, 2019
No issues.
Peace of mind.
CI
United Kingdom
Toyota Corolla Sedan
July 14, 2019
If you're staying in the centre of Christchurch I wouldn't bother hiring a car! Definitely hire from Christchurch if that's where your tour begins!
KK
South Korea
Toyota RAV4
May 6, 2019
It was the best car to travel to New Zealand. And the staff was very kind. The drab and pickup service was also very good. Best of all, the price was low. My trip could have been satisfactory. Thank you.
KH
United States of America (USA)
Toyota Estima 2007
March 31, 2019
I e loved our time in Christchurch and traveling around Canterbury. So many beautiful places to visit and see.
Top 15 Suppliers for Christchurch Airport in 2020
Enterprise
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
Keddy
+64033579202
CHRISTCHURCH INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL
Economy rent a car
Alamo
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
+640800566701
Airpark Canterbury 17/25 Logistics Dr, Harewood, 8544, Christchurch
NuCarrentals
+640800800317 / +64021417556 / +646433482002 / +640800800312
189 Blenheim Rd, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041
Ace Rent a car
6433603270 / 033603271
20 Abros Place
Goldcar
+34965233425 / +6402102787307 / +64021643649
Wairakei Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
Rhodium
+34965233425 / +6402102787307
Wairakei Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
Goldcar
+34965233425 / +6402102787307
Wairakei Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
Surprice
+6436660026
30 Durey Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053
Highly recommended by our customers
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