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 Christchurch Airport
 Car Rental

Rental companies offer a range of vehicle types, including compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and vans. When booking, consider your needs for luggage capacity, fuel efficiency, and the number of passengers. Always check the vehicle specifications to ensure it meets your requirements.

The terms 'economy' and 'compact' cars are used inconsistently by rental operators to describe smaller cars. That said, economy cars tend to be older vehicles supplied by some of the local rental operators.

For peak travel seasons (November to April), it’s wise to book as early as possible to secure availability and better rates. During off-peak times, booking 3-7 days in advance is usually sufficient but you may find your choices are limited and rental rates higher, compared to booking earlier. The general rule of thumb is to book as early as possible.

International visitors need a valid overseas driver’s license. If the license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Always carry both your original license and the IDP when driving.

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a minimum of one year of driving experience. Drivers under 25 may incur an additional young driver surcharge. Be sure to check the specific age requirements and fees with your rental provider before booking.

Rental rates are generally based on the rental duration, type of vehicle, and any additional services or insurance options selected. Additional fees may include charges for GPS, child seats, extra drivers, or young driver surcharges. Make sure to review the terms and conditions with your rental provider.

Beyond the base rental cost, be aware of potential additional fees such as young driver surcharges, additional driver fees, GPS rental, child seats, and after-hours service charges. Ensure you understand all included costs and any potential extra charges. If you require additional services such as GPS navigation or child seats, it's advisable to request these services at the time of booking, rather than when collecting your vehicle to ensure availability.

Most rental companies accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Some also accept debit cards, but cash payments are generally not accepted. Check with your specific rental company to confirm their payment policies.

Rental companies provide various insurance and coverage options. These typically include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Third-Party Liability. Additional coverage options may be available for personal accident insurance or roadside assistance. Make sure to understand what each option includes and excludes to choose the best coverage for your needs. We highly recommend having adequate insurance. While it's an unwelcome extra cost, the potential expenses of not having insurance far outweigh the price. We never rent a car without taking insurance.

On-airport hire car collection

If you're arriving on an international flight and have booked an "on-airport" rental car, head to the rental car counters located next to the arrivals area on the ground floor of the international terminal.

For travellers on domestic flights, car rental operators can be found on the ground floor of the car park building opposite the domestic terminal.

After completing the necessary paperwork at the check-in counter, you will be directed to the pick-up area for your vehicle.

Off-airport hire car collection
If you've booked an "off-airport" rental car, these companies don't have check-in desks within the airport.

You'll need to go to their car hire depot to check in and collect your rental car. Most offer free shuttle services and will pick you up from the airport. This should be arranged when you make your booking, and you’ll need to notify them upon your arrival.

Rental car transfer courtesy shuttles are located outside the Regional Lounge (exit through Doors 1 or 2).

Car rental services at Christchurch Airport are well-equipped to handle late arrivals and have systems in place to accommodate delayed passengers. If your flight to Christchurch is delayed and arrives after the car rental company's check-in desk has closed, there is generally no need to worry. Most rental companies have procedures to manage late arrivals due to flight delays.

Here's what typically happens:

• Car rental companies at Christchurch Airport monitor flight schedules and delays, adjusting their staffing accordingly.
• If your flight is delayed by a few hours, the rental company will likely have staff available to assist you upon arrival.
• For significant delays extending to the next day, it’s advisable to contact the rental company to update your reservation.
• Many car rental companies offer after-hours services for late arrivals. Follow the specific instructions provided in your booking confirmation or posted at the rental counter.

To ensure a smooth process:

• Include your flight number in your rental car booking.
• Keep the rental company's contact information handy.
• Inform the company of significant delays if possible.

Return your rental car to the same location where you picked it up, unless it's a one-way rental.

On-airport hire car return
To return your on-airport rental car, follow the car park signs for car rental returns. Park the vehicle in the designated space and return the key to the car rental desk.

For after-hours returns, park and lock the car and place the keys in the drop box located in the returns area.

Off-airport hire car return
Off-airport rental car depots are in various locations outside Christchurch Airport - most are a short drive of 10-15 minutes. Once you've returned you vehicle a courtesy shuttle service will take you a drop-off point close to your departure terminal.

To avoid being late for your flight it's essential you allow sufficient time for both returning your car AND the transfer from the depot to airport.

Shuttle transfers are limited to depot opening hours, so if you return your car after-hours you may need to arrange a taxi to the airport from the depot.

Many rental companies offer free cancellations up to 24-48 hours before the scheduled pickup time. If you cancel at the last minute, cancellation fees may apply. Always review the cancellation policy of your rental company when making a booking.

If you need to extend your car rental, contact your rental company as soon as possible. Extensions are subject to vehicle availability and may incur additional charges. It’s best to arrange this in advance to avoid any complications.

Yes, you can rent a car from Christchurch Airport and drop it off at another location in NZ. Note that one-way rentals often include an additional fee. Look out for special offers from car hire companies for these types of bookings.

Yes, there are certain restrictions on where you can drive your rental car. For example, many rental companies do not allow their vehicles to be driven on unsealed or gravel roads. Additionally, you may be prohibited from driving in specific remote areas or taking the vehicle on certain ferry routes.  Examples include:

Skippers Canyon Road: A narrow, winding road in Otago known for its stunning views but challenging driving conditions.

Ball Hutt Road: An unsealed road leading to Aoraki/Mount Cook, which can be difficult to navigate.

Ferry Routes: Driving rental cars on ferries, especially inter-island ferries between the North and South Islands, may not be permitted without prior approval.

These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of the driver and the vehicle, as well as to comply with the rental company’s policies. Always review your rental agreement and ask your rental company for detailed information on any restrictions.

The fuel policy varies by rental company. Some operate on a full-to-full basis, meaning you return the car with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up. Others may offer pre-purchase options or charge for refuelling if the tank is not full upon return. Check your rental agreement for specific details.

If your rental needs to be returned with a full tank then it's a good idea to top up the tank at a petrol station near the depot. The extra 5 or 10 minutes this takes will definitely save you money. 

If you drop off a rental car at a car hire depot with less fuel than when you picked up it up then the car hire company will charge a high price to top up the tank. These charges can be excessive, such as a $2.50 a litre surcharge additional to the fuel cost. Not a nice surprise to later find this charge on your credit card.

There are a number of petrol stations close to Christchurch Airport, including some open 24 hours.

Allied - Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport
Mobil - 39 W Coast Rd, Yaldhurst
Z Petrol - 449 Wairakei Rd, Burnside

In case of an accident or breakdown, contact the rental company's emergency assistance number immediately. Follow their instructions and, if necessary, contact local emergency services. Ensure you document the incident and obtain a police report if required.