Finding a Cheap Car Rental in Christchurch Airport is Easy

Christchurch in New Zealand during sunset

VroomVroomVroom can help you find a cheap car rental at Christchurch Airport. With Alamo, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Enterprise, Hertz, National and Thrifty all offering a fantastic range of rental cars at the best rate, you can find a vehicle on our website that will get your South Island holiday rolling. Currently, all our suppliers have their fleets based at the airport which makes it more convenient for pick up and drop off.

Christchurch is an easy airport to navigate, as the domestic and international terminals are in adjoining buildings. You may see some unusual aircraft out on the tarmac, as the airport is the hub for the air logistics operations of the US, Italy and New Zealand to McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. Look out for the RNZAF Hercules, or a US Airforce C-17 Globemaster.

Location Overview

Christchurch Airport is a 20-minute drive via Memorial Avenue from the CBD. Known as a perfect location to start your road trip, it’s a gateway to lush scenery and world-class national parks, mountains, and towns.

You can land, pick up your car rental and start exploring the area with ease. Picking up your car rental at Christchurch Airport is easy. Simply walk to the arrivals hall to find the car rental counters. There are also many parking options available including short and long stay options.

Servicing both domestic and international flights, Christchurch Airport is the perfect starting point for those wanting to explore the South Island of New Zealand. For convenience, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty car rentals are available at the airport.

Car Rental Overview

Christchurch Airport Address: Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand

Number of On-Site Suppliers: 6. Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise, Thrifty

Car Rental Opening Hours: Car rental is available 24 hours at Christchurch Airport, 7 days a week.

Avis Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday from 5 am - 12:30 am

Budget Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday from 5 am - 12:30 am

Enterprise Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday from 5 am to 2 am

Europcar Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday 24 hours

Hertz Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday from 5 am - 1:30 am

Thrifty Christchurch Airport: Monday to Sunday from 5 am to 2 am

Customer Reviews & Feedback for Renting at Christchurch Airport

The best way to get an idea of renting a car is to read about fellow traveller’s real recent experiences. Our team have reached out to some of our customers who recently rented from Christchurch Airport and their experiences are shared below.

Whitney (September 2019): Whitney picked up her rental car from Thrifty at Christchurch Airport. She booked a full-size car for 2 days and rated the condition of the car a 10/10. She said her experience in collecting and returning the vehicle was good. She also shared one valuable tip: Make sure you have a credit card on you!

More verified customer reviews

Why hire a car at Christchurch Airport through us?

VroomVroomVroom can help you find the best deals when it comes to hiring a car. Below are some of the many great reasons to book a rental car with us:

Enjoy great rates - We have negotiated with our partners so we can provide the best rates. Read our Price Promise to find out how you can get a great deal.
Convenient location - Hire a car from Christchurch Airport to save you time when you pick up your vehicle. No need to take the shuttle to pick up your car.
Wide selection of vehicles - Aside from rental cars, you can also compare campervan and motorhome rentals at Christchurch Airport.
Trusted since 2001 - We are the experts in rental cars and have been helping people book a car hire for more than a decade. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. You can also leave us a message on Facebook or Twitter.

Driving tips at Christchurch Airport

Pooling resources and sharing a car can make for significant savings for groups. Once you have your car, you are about a 20-minute drive to the city centre. The journey from Christchurch to Queenstown is a popular trip. It is more than 480 kilometres in distance.

The drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo would take three hours. Note that the route from Christchurch to Queenstown via Cromwell and State Highway 6 is not the only way. Another driving route you could take is via Wanaka, the Cardrona Valley, and Crown Range Road. For more day tips ideas from Christchurch, click here.

FAQs About Hiring a Car From Christchurch Airport

Where do I collect my rental car at Christchurch Airport?

Car rental offices are located in Domestic and International Arrivals. This is where you will pick up your keys. The car rental agents will instruct you where to collect the car.

Where do I return my rental car?

You will return your rental car in the same location you picked it up.

Is there an international airport in Christchurch?

Yes, there is. Both International and Domestic terminals at Christchurch Airport are in the same building.

Do I have to wash the car before I return?

Unless the car rental is visibly dirty, you do not have to clean it. If it is dirty, you may be charged a cleaning fee. In this instance, it is recommended to wash the car.

Where is the nearest petrol station to refuel the car at Christchurch Airport?

Caltex: 202 Withells Rd, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand. This petrol station is open Monday to Friday from 6 am to 10 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 9 pm.

Are there tolls when hiring a car from Christchurch Airport?

No, there are no toll roads on the South Island of New Zealand.

Get the best local tips for your South Island road trip

While there is still rebuilding to do in Christchurch, it is very much back in business for tourism with a great choice of things to do. VroomVroomVroom has come up with a list of activities, accommodation, and restaurants/bars that you can visit during your stay in your reliable car rental. Some of them are just a few minutes away from Christchurch Airport so you can call in before your flight.

Attractions | Accommodation | Restaurants & Bars

Attractions

Dolphin Swimming Adventure by Black Cat Cruises

Address: Akaroa Main Wharf, Akaroa, 7520

dolphin watching with black cat cruises in christchurch

If you're looking for an awesome water experience, then try Black Cat's Dolphin Swimming Adventure! Get a chance to swim with Hector's dolphins, which are the world's rarest and smallest dolphins.

They can be found at the marine mammal sanctuary of Akaroa Harbour, which is around a 90 minute drive from the airport. Black Cat Cruises also offers other exciting water-based activities such as Akaroa Harbour nature cruises, Diamond Harbour ferry, and Quail Island adventures.

Willowbank

Address: 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051

The family-owned park is one of the favourite attractions of animal lovers travelling to Christchurch. It houses more than 50 species of animals and many can be found free-ranging while just a few of them live in enclosures. Willowbank is known for their kiwi breeding program so you can find several species including the North Island Brown. Apart from the wildlife, you can also enjoy a Maori cultural experience and dine in their restaurant.

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Accommodation

Amross Court Motor Lodge

Address: 61 Bealey Ave Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013

amross court motor lodge in christchurch

This picturesque motel is situated near the rebuilt CBD and just a stone's throw away from the restaurants along Victoria Street. Amross Court Motor Lodge offers affordable accommodation in the city centre.

Choose from 14 spacious and refurnished units. Each room is equipped with luxurious beds, new carpeting, and kitchenware. Whether you're travelling solo or with your family, you will find the perfect accommodation here.

Haka Lodge

Address: 518 Linwood Avenue, Christchurch 8062

Haka Lodge is a backpacker's haven because of its relaxed atmosphere, spacious accommodation, modern facilities, and best of all, cheap rates. The lodge is surrounded by towering trees and lush gardens. It is located just outside the CBD and near the public transport, attractions, and shops. Take advantage of their free Wi-Fi, cosy lounges, and widescreen entertainment. They also offer tours for those who want to explore more of New Zealand.

The George

Address: 50 Park Terrace, Christchurch 8013

The George boasts of its tranquil surrounding and breathtaking views of the Avon River and Hagley Park. The boutique hotel has easy access to the main attractions of Christchurch. Expect excellent service during your stay because this luxurious accommodation has a one-to-one staff to guest ratio. The George takes pride in its award-winning restaurants and numerous recognitions including “New Zealand's Leading Boutique Hotel” for six years.

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Restaurants & Bars

Burgers & Beers Inc.

Address 1: 355 – 357 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch

Address 2: 478 Cranford Street, Redwood, Christchurch

facade of burgers and beers in christchurch

Some people have a secret love affair with burgers and beers. This combination has been sought after by many diners and you can find the perfect pair at Burgers & Beers Inc.

They offer big and flavourful burgers placed between freshly-made soft buns matched with icy cold beer. Kids, on the other hand, can select from their tempting menu that were specifically made for children. Enjoy their energetic vibe, appetising menu and eclectic music.

Dragons Den Social Lounge

Address: 357 Colombo Street, Sydenham

After munching on some burgers, why not continue the fun with some cocktails? Head to Dragons Den Social Lounge, which is also situated along Colombo Street. This sophisticated late night venue offers a wide selection of fine wines, well-crafted cocktails, boutique beers, and strong tipplers. Pair your drink with their delectable snacks served in small plates or shared platters.

The Lotus-Heart

Address: 363 St Asaph St Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011

The Lotus-Heart has received numerous awards and recognition for their global cuisine, including "New Zealand's Favourite Veggie Restaurant" for 2013 and 2014. Lotus-Heart is managed by the Sri Chinmoy students and their main goal is to promote healthy eating. They use organic and the freshest ingredients in their dishes. This is the ideal restaurant for vegans and diners who practice raw food and gluten-free diets.

The Monday Room

Address: Level One, Strategy House, Corner Moorhouse Avenue & Madras Street, Christchurch

The perfect place to unwind is at The Monday Room, which is situated in the Strategy Building in Moorhouse Avenue. It was named as "Christchurch Bar of The Year" in 2014. The interiors of the cosy café and wine bar features a roaring fireplace, botanical artwork, exposed bricks, and encyclopedic bar. Make sure to try their signature Japanese Fried Chicken, yakitori, and tapas as well as their excellent list of beers and wines.

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Top Things to do from Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Garden Tours

Further afield, the Giant's House and Gardens in Akaroa are a truly magical experience. The gardens are filled with mosaic sculptures by artist Josie Martin, and have been awarded with the title of Garden of National Significance.

TranzAlpine Railway

One of the world's great train journeys, from Christchurch, across the Southern Alps to Greymouth.

Aoraki Mount Cook Day Tour

You can admire the majestic beauty along the way including the Canterbury Plains, Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lindis Pass. Try a scenic flight if the weather is fine.

Avon River

The Avon River is the life-blood of Christchurch city, rising from springs in the western suburbs, and winding its way through the city centre, and the north-eastern part of the city. Take a punt on the Avon River and see the stunning gardens situated on the riverbanks. Your guide, in his elegant Edwardian dress propels the punt by pushing against the river bed with a pole.

Antarctic Centre

The Antarctic Centre is a fun family attraction right by the airport. You can experience a real snowstorm, (don't worry, warm coats are provided) view penguins or have an exciting Hagglund ride.

Book At	Miles/km
Christchurch	6/10
Timaru	90/144
Hokitika Airport	95/152
Hokitika	95/153
Greymouth	98/158
Westport	129/207
Marlborough Airport	153/245
Blenheim	154/248
Nelson Airport	155/250
*Distance is calculated aerial. Actual will be different.