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 $30 per day
- Medium cars - from $23 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $47 per day
- Small cars - from $18 per day
- SUVs - from $47 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
-
Car Rental at Blenheim Airport from $36.67 per day246.1 km / 152.9 miles away
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Car Rental at Nelson Airport from $22.17 per day253.0 km / 157.2 miles away
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Car Rental at Wellington Airport from $11.30 per day303.0 km / 188.3 miles away
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Car Rental at Wellington Inter Island Ferry Terminal from $35.68 per day307.8 km / 191.3 miles away
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Car Rental at Dunedin Airport from $32.77 per day328.3 km / 204.0 miles away
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Car Rental at Queenstown Airport from $15.19 per day351.7 km / 218.5 miles away
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Car Rental at Palmerston North Airport from $47.30 per day433.8 km / 269.5 miles away
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Car Rental at Invercargill Airport from $38.84 per day466.8 km / 290.1 miles away
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Car Rental at New Plymouth Airport from $47.30 per day519.2 km / 322.6 miles away
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Car Rental at Napier Airport from $49.30 per day573.3 km / 356.2 miles away
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Car Rental at Rotorua Airport from $51.01 per day677.7 km / 421.1 miles away
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Car Rental at Tauranga Airport from $51.01 per day717.6 km / 445.9 miles away
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Car Rental at Auckland Airport from $11.14 per day748.0 km / 464.8 miles away
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Car Rental Auckland Ponsonby from $15.20 per day764.1 km / 474.8 miles away
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Car Rental at Whangarei Airport from $40.31 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 $28.44. 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 $83.46 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 Vitz | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| yesaway | Toyota RAV4 | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Snap Rentals | Toyota Aqua | 5 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Discount Car Rentals New Zealand | Toyota Yaris | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| yesaway | Suzuki Swift | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| yesaway | Toyota Highlander | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Discount Car Rentals New Zealand | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| Snap Rentals | Toyota Corolla | 5 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Snap Rentals | Toyota Yaris | 5 | 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
LW
New Zealand
Toyota Corolla
February 18, 2021
Took a day trip to Hamner Springs. Highly recommend the hot pools. Super fun day!!!
Check out the Christchurch inner city via flamingo scooters.
Visit the new Margaret Mahy playground in the inner city, not just for kids!!!!
JB
New Zealand
Mazda Demio
January 20, 2021
Travelled around Canterbury and Marlborough Sounds. There were quite a few roads in the Sounds that were unsealed. And quite narrow, pays to be extra vigilant.
Worth the drive though, very beautiful country.
KR
New Zealand
Nissan Qashqai
January 15, 2021
Driving through the South Island is a must-do. So many beautiful places to see. I liked being able to pull over and enjoy the beauty
DH
New Zealand
Suzuki Swift
December 29, 2020
Great way to see the sights
RY
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris
December 4, 2020
Spread out city sometimes longer distances
DR
New Zealand
MG3 Hatchback
November 28, 2020
Road conditions were beyond expectation and the views were stunning !
GG
New Zealand
Toyota Vitz
November 13, 2020
Christchurch is fabulous, new places, great coffee shops, just be careful there are a lot of motorways and the people drive like deranged lunatics, I didn't stay long but will next time and check out other places in Christchurch,it's a beautiful bustling city.
PC
New Zealand
Toyota Aqua
November 6, 2020
Christchurch has great parks and open spaces. Take time to stop and enjoy the parks, natural environment.
KW
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris
October 26, 2020
Was such an easy place to visit using gps
FO
New Zealand
Mitsubishi Mirage
October 12, 2020
Love Christchurch, I go there several times a year.
SM
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris
October 7, 2020
Cool city has a great vibe about it
AD
New Zealand
Toyota Vitz
October 1, 2020
South Island is a great place to visit. When you rent a car try to rent a car with a real full cover insurance.
New Zealand roads have lots of stones coming to your car especially the car windscreen. Many of the drivers know little about driving and crash your car in car parking. You need to have a full insurance for your peace of mind.
SS
New Zealand
Toyota Vitz
August 30, 2020
Love Christchurch. Awesome NZ History and culture. We also visited Oamaru and can say the same things.
LM
New Zealand
Toyota Yaris
July 13, 2020
Driving down the west coast of the south island is awesome sightseeing. Our country is so beautiful.
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.
Top 20 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
+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:07:00-20:00
Tue:07:00-20:00
Wed:07:00-20:00
Thu:07:00-20:00
Fri:07:00-20:00
Sat:07:00-20:00
Sun:07:00-20:00
Enterprise
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
$16 - $119
SIXT
+6436660026
Ground Floor, Airport Terminal, Rental Car Kiosk, 30 Durey Road, Christchurch 8053
$20 - $88
Keddy
+64033579202
CHRISTCHURCH INTERNATIONAL TERMINAL
$22 - $26
Working hours
Mon:07:00-20:00
Tue:07:00-20:00
Wed:07:00-20:00
Thu:07:00-20:00
Fri:07:00-20:00
Sat:07:00-20:00
Sun:07:00-20:00
Economy rent a car
+6493033912
Christchurch Airport, 30 Durey Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8053
$54 - $59
Working hours
Mon:07:00-18:00
Tue:07:00-18:00
Wed:07:00-18:00
Thu:07:00-18:00
Fri:07:00-18:00
Sat:07:00-18:00
Sun:07:00-18:00
Avis
033589661
Terminal Building
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
Budget
033570231
Terminal Building Christchurch Airport
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
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 - $64
Alamo
+6433586554
20 RON GUTHREY RD,
$16 - $118
Routes Car & Truck Rentals
+6435951828
11-15 Logistics Drive Harewood Christchurch 8051
$16 - $26
Working hours
Mon:08:30-17:30
Tue:08:30-17:30
Wed:08:30-17:30
Thu:08:30-17:30
Fri:08:30-17:30
Sat:08:30-17:30
Sun:08:30-17:30
NUCarrentals
+640800800317 / +640800800312
189 Blenheim Rd, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041
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
Rhodium
+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
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