How to find a cheap car hire deal in Christchurch
Searching for a cheap rental car in Christchurch? With prices averaging $253 a day, big savings are just around the corner. Whether you're after a small ride, a spacious family car, or something else entirely, we compare all the best offers to help you spend less.
The cheapest daily price for a rental in Christchurch is $97.
Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? $393 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
If you want to time it right, book around three weeks ahead to grab the best price on a Christchurch car hire.
Yes rentals, Auto-Union and Bargain Rental Cars are some of the most popular providers in the city. Use them as a starting point to compare offers.
The coverage Yes rentals or another company offers for your Christchurch car hire can differ, so be sure to read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra fee.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to lock in a good deal if the provider needs to move vehicles between sites. Find the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Save money on fuel by picking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect the car with a full tank and bring it back full, so you only pay for what you use.
Pack more into your journey by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average $291 a day.
Not far behind, this provider offers daily rates of around $300.
The third option also stacks up well on price. Ride away in one of their rentals for roughly $344 a day.
The Economy rental category is a reliable option if you're unsure which wheels are right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's rented the most in Christchurch.
Flying to Christchurch? Think about an airport pick-up
Take the hassle out of arrival day by booking a car hire at Christchurch International Airport. If you're flying to Christchurch through this airport, simply collect your wheels after landing and head out. The drive to the city centre is about 11 kilometres and takes around 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Christchurch
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Christchurch gives you the freedom to explore for less. These nimble, fuel-efficient rides are ideal choices for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the just-right ride you need in your life. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are great for small families and couples.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Christchurch car hire category. Also known as full-size, they're built with bigger engines for better driving. The extra space and comfort make them a top choice for groups of friends and families.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and scenic routes alike.
Van: With options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Christchurch handles big loads and group travel with ease. They're roomy, reliable, and ready to tackle whatever task lies ahead.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a big excess fee. Different Christchurch car hire providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
Upgrade your ride with handy extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. These features can make your trip easier and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Christchurch.
Good to know
Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your rental in New Zealand. Rules can differ, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, simply uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to explore your options.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat rules vary from one place to another, and the correct setup may depend on their height, age and weight. Find out if you need to add one to your Christchurch car hire reservation.
Bring the right documents to make pick-up quick and easy. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (not a screenshot or digital version) and a second photo ID. Also bring along a credit card with room for the security hold. If extra documents are required, they'll be listed in your booking.
If you're unfamiliar with driving in New Zealand, keep in mind that traffic here sticks to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 45kph in built-up areas and around 95kph on highways. Road signs will show if a different limit applies.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.05% applies in New Zealand. The safest way to stay legal to drive is to avoid drinking altogether.
Aim to travel outside high-traffic periods for a smoother trip. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You'll be using the New Zealand dollar (NZD) for day-to-day spending throughout your trip. You may find it handy to carry a mix of cards and cash to cover you in every situation.
English is the language most commonly spoken throughout this country.
Best hotels in Christchurch for drivers
Offering parking, Belmont Motor Inn makes it easy to come and go as you please. This hotel is about 2 kilometres from central Christchurch and also comes with luggage storage and a kitchen.
Alternatively, take advantage of the parking at The Milano Christchurch. The city centre is roughly 2 kilometres from this option, which also features room service and internet access.
Explore the full range of hotels in Christchurch and pick the stay that suits your trip. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to what you need — like 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with on-site charging.
After you've locked in a car hire deal in Christchurch and your hotel, all that's left is deciding where to head to first. Kick things off with top attractions such as Christchurch Botanic Gardens, International Antarctic Centre and The Christchurch Art Gallery.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Christchurch
Around 80 kilometres southwest of central Christchurch, Ashburton belongs on your itinerary. Head straight for can't-miss sights like CharRees Vineyard and Argyle Park.
They've perfected the guest experience at ASURE Adcroft Motel and Bella Vista Motel Ashburton, two accommodation options with parking in Ashburton.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Christchurch and travel roughly 16 kilometres north to Kaiapoi. Featuring ANZ and Kaiapoi Rose garden, its highlights live up to the buzz.
The Riverstone and Pegasus Gateway Motels & Apartments are comfortable places to stay in Kaiapoi if you've got more than a quick stop in mind. Go for one of these and take the hassle out of finding a spot for your ride.
Ready to go the extra mile? Blenheim is a top road trip destination that's about 257 kilometres northeast of Christchurch. Plan to make a few pit stops at Wither Hills Cellar Door and Restaurant and Mt Vernon lookout.
Book a room at Sundowner Motel or 171 On High Motel. They're an ideal base for exploring everything Blenheim has to offer. They also come with parking.
