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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Christchurch
Christchurch
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Christchurch
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Christchurch
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Christchurch
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Christchurch?
Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban life. While public transport is available, renting a car offers unmatched freedom to explore the diverse attractions in and around the city.
Explore the Canterbury Region. Christchurch is the gateway to the Canterbury region, with destinations like Akaroa, Hanmer Springs, and the Southern Alps within easy driving distance. A rental car allows you to experience these scenic spots at your own pace.
Convenience and Comfort. A rental car ensures a comfortable and hassle-free journey, especially if you are travelling with family, carrying luggage, or planning multiple stops. No need to rely on public transport schedules or taxi availability.
Access to Hidden Gems. Discover secluded beaches, charming towns, and picturesque hiking trails that are not easily accessible by public transport. A rental car opens up a world of possibilities for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Christchurch
Before renting a car in Christchurch, be sure to understand the rental terms and conditions. Key considerations include age requirements, driving licence rules, insurance options, and fuel policies. Familiarising yourself with these details ensures a smooth and worry-free rental experience.
Area
1,426 square kilometres (551 square miles)
Population
Approximately 400,000 residents
Time Zone
NZST (UTC+12)
Ideal for
Exploring the South Island
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Christchurch require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, some providers may have specific restrictions or surcharges for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driving licence is required. If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. A passport and a credit card in the driver’s name are also typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard car rentals usually include basic insurance coverage. Additional options like collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection are available. A security deposit is held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon the vehicle’s safe return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyRental agreements often include unlimited mileage. Fuel policies vary, but most require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras such as GPS units or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Christchurch – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22.50 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12.50 / €11.25 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $37.50 / €33.75 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $43.75 / €39.38 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22.50 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €13.50 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Experiences higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to September): Often features discounts
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Christchurch?
To book a car in Christchurch, compare prices, select a vehicle that fits your needs, and carefully review the rental terms. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel periods. Make sure to have your driving licence, credit card, and identification ready when picking up the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use car rental comparison websites to find the best deals based on your travel dates and car preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your itinerary, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring rugged terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Pay close attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, particularly during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your driving licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental car.
General Information About Christchurch
Christchurch is known for its unique blend of urban and natural attractions, with a revitalised city centre and access to stunning landscapes. Understanding traffic rules, parking, and fuel options is essential, especially when venturing beyond the city limits.
As the largest city in the South Island, Christchurch offers a dynamic mix of culture and outdoor adventures. While the city centre is easily walkable, renting a car is beneficial for exploring the wider Canterbury region. Driving in Christchurch is generally straightforward, but it’s important to be aware of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station locations. Planning your routes and parking in advance will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Explore a stunning array of plants and flowers in this beautiful urban oasis.
International Antarctic Centre
Experience the wonders of Antarctica with interactive exhibits and thrilling simulations.
Canterbury Museum
Discover the region’s history and natural heritage through engaging displays.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages located throughout the city for secure, convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but may have time limits, especially in the central business district.
Park & Ride
Utilise park-and-ride facilities on the city outskirts and use public transport to reach the city centre.
Gas Stations in Christchurch
Convenient Availability
Fuel stations are readily available throughout Christchurch and the surrounding areas.
Major Brands
Look for BP, Mobil, Z Energy, and Gull stations.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Christchurch
Contactless Payment
Use contactless payment options for buses and trams for fast and convenient travel.
Watch for Cyclists
Stay alert for cyclists, especially in the city centre and along designated bike lanes.
Plan for Traffic
Allow extra travel time during rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM / 4:30–6:00 PM).
Utilise Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and route planning.
Key Transportation Hubs in Christchurch
Major Bus Stations
Christchurch Bus Interchange
Located in the city centre, it serves as the central hub for local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
Christchurch Railway Station
Provides connections to other parts of the South Island via the TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific train services.
Airports
Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Located approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) northwest of the city centre, serving both domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Christchurch?
Renting a car in Christchurch is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few essential requirements to ensure a smooth experience. Here’s what you’ll generally need:
A valid driving licence is required. If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may have additional surcharges for younger drivers.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Some rental companies may only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or other form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Christchurch as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pleasant enough, really
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 24.03.2025
Quick stop in Christchurch on our road trip. The Botanic Gardens were lovely, although the cafe was a bit underwhelming.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 18.08.2024
Christchurch exceeded expectations! Coastal drives were stunning, and exploring was effortless.
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 24.07.2025
Charming city, easy to navigate with a car. Loved it!
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 06.12.2024
Pretty chilled vibe
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 22.09.2024
Loved my Christchurch weekend! Getting around by car was a breeze, and the city is beautiful.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 20.03.2025
Christchurch was lovely, exploring easily by car. The museum was underwhelming, though.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 20.10.2024
Back in Christchurch after ages, and it felt surprisingly different. Having a car made exploring easy, though the city centre felt a bit less vibrant than I remembered. Still, a nice trip overall.
Isabelle Brown
Reviewed: 04.01.2025
Christchurch was a fantastic spontaneous weekend! Exploring with a car was so easy.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 24.04.2025