How to find a cheap car hire deal in Christchurch (CHC)
Flight just landed? Grab a cheap Christchurch rental car and get on your way for around $77 a day. From short drives to open-road adventures, we'll match your plans with the right wheels.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at Christchurch is $16.
Making it more than a quick visit? Book a weekly rental from $52 and explore beyond the usual highlights of Christchurch.
To get the cheapest price, book your CHC car hire around three weeks in advance.
Yes rentals, Discount Car Rentals and mode rentals are some popular providers at Christchurch.
The coverage Yes rentals or another supplier offers for your Christchurch car hire can differ, so be sure to check the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge extra 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 browsing for a car for hire in CHC. Providers often need to move vehicles between branches, which means you can lock in some awesome one-way prices.
Spend less on fuel by choosing a car hire in Christchurch that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your ride with a full tank and refill it before drop-off, so you're only paying for what you use.
Want to explore freely without worrying about how many miles you rack up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average $100 a day.
Next up is this provider, offering daily rates of around $157.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly $70 a day with this provider.
The Compact rental category is a reliable choice if you can't decide what sort of ride you need. It's also the car type that's booked the most at CHC.
Compare car hire types from Christchurch (CHC)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Christchurch rental car puts you on the road for less. These compact, fuel-efficient rides are great for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of interior space and fuel efficiency and are great for couples and small families.
Large: Long drives fly by in this CHC car hire category. Also known as full-size, they've got the engine power for lengthy trips. The extra legroom and comfort make them a popular choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and country backroads alike.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you want a car for rent in Christchurch that can handle the heavy stuff. With options like commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's equipment, baggage or groups of people.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your CHC car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, it's a safety net if something happens. Just remember that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you know exactly what's included.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can totally transform your drive. Look into which add-ons could improve your trip when you rent a car in Christchurch.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't the same everywhere. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could encounter extra costs or restrictions. Check the exact rules for each supplier before booking your car hire in New Zealand.
Add a car seat to your CHC car hire booking if you're travelling with small kids. Requirements change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest way to go.
You'll need to hand over a few things when picking up your rental car: a current driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card that can cover the security deposit. Debit cards aren't commonly accepted. Your booking will flag any other must-haves.
Driving in New Zealand might take some adjustment for first-time visitors. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 45kph through built-up areas and around 95kph on highways. Check the road signs, as limits may vary.
In New Zealand, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, get someone else to do the driving or arrange a ride-share or taxi instead.
You'll be using the New Zealand dollar (NZD) here. In addition to your debit and credit cards, consider having some cash handy for smaller purchases.
Drive smarter from the start
After you've picked up the keys to your CHC car hire, it's time to write your own itinerary. Central Christchurch is about 11 kilometres southeast and a drive of around 20 minutes if that's where your journey begins.
Allow roughly 25 minutes to get from Christchurch to the city centre during peak travel times.
Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
Don't need a set of wheels immediately? Consider collecting a car hire in Christchurch instead of at the airport. That way, you won't pay for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Christchurch (CHC)
Start with some of the leading attractions in Christchurch, like Mount Herbert/Te Ahu Patiki and Gemston & Fossil Museum Birdlings Flat. Whether you drive or find an alternative way there, you'll want to check out these highlights before leaving town.
Around 80 kilometres southwest of CHC, Ashburton easily earns a place on your itinerary. Head to can't-miss sights like Argyle Park and Ashburton Aviation Museum.
Keep the wheels turning and road-trip it to Timaru, about 145 kilometres southwest of CHC. First, swing past Timaru - Little blue penguins, then follow it up with Coastal Walkway.
