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Travel Guide

Book a Great Deal on Car Rental in Christchurch

lyttleton port and harbour panorama christchurch

Search, compare and book your car rental for Christchurch with VroomVroomVroom. Use our search comparison tool to find reliable and affordable vehicles from New Zealand’s leading rental car companies.

Quick Facts on Hiring a Car in Christchurch

Vehicle ClassesEconomy, Compact, Intermediate, Standard, Fullsize, Premium, Luxury, Passenger Van, SUV, Sport, Wagon/Estate
Number of Depots4 in CBD
SuppliersAvis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty

Christchurch Airport Collection

Begin your travels of New Zealand’s South Island as soon as you land. Book your rental car for collection at Christchurch Airport and one of our six on-site suppliers are sure to suit your needs.

Top Rental Car Tips in Christchurch

Christchurch is the gateway to the natural wonders of the South Island, including Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, and Wanaka. Despite the restoration work still underway in the CBD following the 2011 earthquake, there’s plenty to see and do in Christchurch. Here are some of our top tips for exploring Christchurch and New Zealand:

  1. Christchurch’s grid layout means most destinations are only 20 minutes away, and with plenty of parking in the CBD, including eight Council car parks and paid parking stations, the city makes for a great base during your holiday.
  2. The speed limit in built-up areas of the city is 50km/h, while most highways default at 100km/h. Always drive to the signposted speed limit and conditions of the road.
  3. Be sure to fill your car before returning it to avoid extra fees. Generally, if you fill up within a 20km radius of your drop-off location, your fuel gauge should stay at full.
  4. You can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have a current English driver’s license. If your license is in a language other than English, you must carry an International Driving Permit.
  5. Consider adding extra travel time if driving during Christchurch’s peak hour traffic periods. These are typically weekdays from 6:30am to 8:30am and from 4:30pm to 5:30pm.

Frequently Asked Questions for Christchurch Car Hire

How much does it cost to hire a car in Christchurch?

In February 2019, our customers paid between NZD $34 and NZD $111 per day for a hire car. Prices vary depending on vehicle type, time of year, and booking duration. For current rates in Christchurch, use our price comparison tool.

What is the highest-rated rental car in Christchurch?

The highest-rated rental car in Christchurch, following recent ratings by our customers, is a Toyota Corolla Hatch, Hyundai Accent, Holden Trax, or similar.

What is the highest-rated car hire supplier in Christchurch?

Thrifty is the highest-rated car hire supplier in Christchurch Airport based on recent ratings by our customers.

Where can I pick up or drop off my hire car after hours in Christchurch?

Christchurch has several depots with extended hours to suit. Consider Thrifty’s Khyber Pass Rd depot, which opens from 7:00am everyday and closes at 6:00pm weekdays. For earlier pickups or later drop-offs, consider choosing Christchurch Airport as your collection and return point.

How does insurance work for hire cars?

In New Zealand, you can reduce your rental excess amount by purchasing travel insurance which often includes cover to a specified amount for rental cars. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement for your individual policy, as inclusions vary. Otherwise, you can choose to reduce the excess amount by purchasing excess reduction products from your car hire supplier. Read more here about car rental insurance in New Zealand.

Do I need to wash my rental car before returning it?

No. Unless your vehicle is excessively dirty, you don’t need to wash it. If it is dirty, you may choose to wash it to avoid paying cleaning fees.

Our Guide to Visiting Christchurch

Christchurch is currently still rebuilding following the 2011 earthquake; a testament to the resilience of the city and its people. From a thriving food scene to popular outdoor adventures, this is a city worth exploring as it rebuilds. Here are our go-to spots in and around Christchurch:

Attractions | Accommodation


Attractions

Christchurch Gondola

Address: 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022

Enjoy a birds-eye view of Christchurch from aboard the Christchurch Gondola as you glide over the valley. The journey includes stunning aerial views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps, before reaching the summit where morning tea is served at the Red Rock Café. The Gondola is a short 15-minute drive from Christchurch’s CBD.

Christchurch Tram

Address: 109 Worcester Street, Christchurch 8022

Take a guided tour of the city with a day-long ticket for the Christchurch Tram. See the main landmarks and local sights, including the Botanic Gardens, Cathedral Junction, and the Canterbury Museum.

Christchurch Adventure Park

Address: 225 Worsleys Road, Cracroft, Christchurch 8022

Drive 15 minutes to Christchurch’s Port Hills to find the heart-racing adventures of Christchurch Adventure Park. Spend the day racing through the valley on a mountain bike, soar on the zip-line, and refuel at the on-site cafe. It’s also home to the longest chairlift in New Zealand, which gives views all across the Southern Alps.

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Accommodation

Southwark Hotel & Apartments

Address: 25 Southwark Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011

Perfectly located in central Christchurch, these modern serviced apartments include a kitchenette and 24-hour reception. Southwark Hotel and Apartments are conveniently located a five-minute walk from Hagley Park and the shopping precinct in the CBD.

Ibis Christchurch

Address: 107 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011

Situated in the heart of Christchurch’s CBD, Ibis Christchurch offers 155 well-appointed hotel rooms in walking distance to many of the city’s main attractions, shops, and restaurants.

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