How to find a cheap car hire deal in Christchurch
Searching for a cheap rental car in Christchurch? The booking magic happens here. With prices averaging 75 € a day, we compare the best offers so you can book easily, save more, and hit the road happy.
August is the cheapest month to rent a car in Christchurch. With average daily rates of 23 €, you're on the fast-track to saving.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap rental car in Christchurch. Book about three weeks before your trip to score the best prices.
Leading rental brands such as Yes rentals, Auto-Union and Bargain Rental Cars are popular picks for car hire deals in Christchurch.
The coverage Yes rentals or another supplier offers for your Christchurch car hire can vary, so remember to read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Simply select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for rent in Christchurch. Providers often have to move vehicles between locations, which means you can score some excellent one-way prices.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Christchurch with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You'll also skip the costly refueling charges rental agencies tack on.
Hit the road without watching the miles and racking up extra fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and pick 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you drive as far as you want.
Flying into Christchurch? Consider picking up one of the car rentals in Christchurch International Airport. That way, you can take off on your terms shortly after landing.
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 cars are perfect for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, space and fuel efficiency. Easy to manoeuvre in cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and improved tech features, this Christchurch car hire category includes full-size cars. With roomier back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and a wide-angle view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating trickier terrain or cruising down long stretches of highway, many come with all-wheel drive to keep you steady on any road.
Van: If you're after a car for rent in Christchurch that can handle a small crowd (and all their stuff), a van is the roomy ride you need. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group travel, moving or business needs.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your Christchurch car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, it's a safety net if something happens. Keep in mind that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
Make travel easier when you rent a car in Christchurch by adding a few handy extras. Think things like a GPS unit to be your go-everywhere guide, or reverse cameras that make parking feel effortless.
Good to know
Age requirements often vary by supplier (and even car type), so know the rules before you book. Some companies in New Zealand may rent to younger drivers for an additional fee. If you fall outside the typical age range, just uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to unlock the right options.
Add a car seat to your Christchurch car hire booking if you're bringing the kids. Requirements change from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, weight and size is always the safest way to go.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Christchurch
Snap up a car hire deal in Christchurch and then get ready to discover the city's top attractions, like Mount Herbert/Te Ahu Patiki and Diamond Harbour. Whether you drive or get there another way, you'll want to check out these highlights before you head out of town.
Set yourself up in Christchurch by staying at Duvauchelle Seaside Motel or Snowberry Cottage at Lochsloy Farm Little River.
Shift gears and take off to Ashburton. Around 88 kilometres west of central Christchurch, it's home to favourite sights like CharRees Vineyard and Argyle Park.
Go-to accommodation options in Ashburton include ASURE Adcroft Motel and Bella Vista Motel Ashburton.
Add Kaiapoi to your list of stops. Grab your cheap car hire in Christchurch and drive around 40 kilometres north to take in major highlights such as ANZ and Kaiapoi Rose garden.
Kaiapoi has some comfortable places that make it easy to unwind, such as Kaiapoi on Williams Motel and Silverstream Alpaca Farmstay & Tour.
Why slow down now? Motor on to Timaru, around 145 kilometres south-west of Christchurch. From Timaru - Little blue penguins to Coastal Walkway, it'll bring your trip to a memorable close.
All that's left to do now is sleep. Timaru TOP 10 Holiday Park and Ashbury Park Motel are waiting for you in Timaru.
