How to find a cheap car hire deal in Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Start your adventure off right with a cheap Queenstown Airport rental car. With prices averaging 73 € a day, it's an easy win for your budget and your plans. From zippy compacts to power-packed SUVs, we'll help you find the right wheels at a price that works.
Drive smart from the start by reserving your wheels in August. With average daily rates of 18 €, it's the cheapest month to rent a car in ZQN.
It's all about timing when it comes to finding a cheap ZQN rental car. Book about two weeks before your trip to score the best price.
Yes rentals, Hao Rentals and mode rentals are the most popular providers at Queenstown Airport.
Whether you choose Yes rentals or a different supplier, double-check the coverage on your Queenstown Airport car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Choosing a one-way car hire is often a great hack for cheaper deals. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when looking for a car for rent in ZQN. Providers often have to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can snag some fantastic one-way prices.
Avoid those steep refueling fees by choosing a car hire in Queenstown Airport with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Hit the highway without counting the miles and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and pick 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you explore further.
With a ZQN car hire, you're in control when it comes to your next move. If central Queenstown is your first stop, it's around 8 kilometres west of the airport and a trip of roughly 15 minutes.
If you don't need to drive right away, consider picking up a car hire in Queenstown instead of at the airport. Collect your ride when it suits you and avoid paying for unused rental days.
Compare car hire types from Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Queenstown Airport rental car gets you moving without breaking the bank. These nimble, fuel-efficient rides are great for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, fuel efficiency and space. Easy to manoeuvre in cities and with enough space for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.
Large: Long drives fly by in this ZQN car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra space and comfort make them a popular choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and an open view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged country lanes or zipping along smooth highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you tackle any road.
Van: Select this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Queenstown Airport that can handle the big jobs. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, baggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your ZQN car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Just remember that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you know exactly what's included.
Take your ride to the next level with nifty extras like a reverse camera and GPS unit. These add-ons can make your trip more comfortable and stress-free when you rent a car in Queenstown Airport.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't the same everywhere. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're under the minimum age, you could be hit with extra charges or rules. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your car hire in New Zealand.
Add a car seat to your ZQN car hire booking if you're planning to travel with the kids. Rules change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size and age is always the safest way to go.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Before you go anywhere else, get in some sightseeing around Queenstown first. Top attractions like Air Milford and Southern Lakes make an excellent first impression.
Shift gears and make tracks to Cromwell. Around 40 kilometres east of ZQN, you'll find popular sights like Heliview Flights and Burn Cottage Vineyard.
Alternatively, grab the wheel of your Queenstown Airport car hire and travel around 48 kilometres north-east to Wanaka. Featuring That Wanaka Tree and Lake Shore walkway to Wānaka Tree, there's no shortage of attractions that demand a visit.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Ashburton, roughly 274 kilometres north-east of ZQN. First, swing past CharRees Vineyard, then take your time exploring Argyle Park.