Christchurch Airport Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Christchurch Airport

Renting a car in Christchurch Airport provides you with the freedom to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, you can visit attractions like Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, both located just 8 km away. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, or romantic strolls, having a rental car allows you to customize your itinerary. You can also drive to Bealey Avenue, 9 km away, to experience the city’s charm. The convenience of a rental vehicle means you can easily navigate to nearby destinations such as Christchurch City Centre, where you can explore Cathedral Square, and Harewood, only 3 km away, home to Styx Mill Conservation Reserve. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture. By renting a car, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Christchurch and its surroundings without the limitations of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Christchurch Airport

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides a comfortable and spacious interior, making it suitable for those who need extra room for luggage while enjoying the flexibility of exploring Christchurch Airport and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Compact: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. This car type offers convenience and efficiency, particularly beneficial for navigating the city and handling parking in tighter spaces, all while providing a comfortable ride for those travelling light.
• Fullsize SUV: Accommodates 6 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families or groups. This larger vehicle ensures ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for those looking to travel together comfortably while exploring the attractions in and around Christchurch Airport.

Top rated car suppliers in Christchurch Airport

• Budget: Known for its clean and convenient location, Budget offers a friendly service that has garnered an impressive overall rating of 8.6 out of 10. With one rental location in the Christchurch Airport area, it's an excellent choice for travellers looking for flexibility. The most booked cars with Budget include the Midsize SUV and Compact, making it ideal for individuals and families alike.
• Europcar: With one rental location near Christchurch Airport, Europcar is a popular choice for visitors seeking reliable vehicles. The most frequently booked cars from Europcar are the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, providing options that cater to a variety of needs. The company's reputation for quality service makes it a top supplier in the area.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental operates one location in the Christchurch Airport vicinity, offering convenient access to a range of vehicles. Most booked cars include the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, perfect for travellers looking to explore the region comfortably. Thrifty's commitment to service and quality contributes to its popularity among car rental options.

Where to stay around Christchurch Airport

• Christchurch City Centre: Located 9 km from Christchurch Airport, the City Centre is ideal for a vibrant urban experience. Here, you can explore attractions such as Hagley Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the picturesque Christchurch Botanic Gardens, great for family outings. The area is also known for its shopping mall and diverse dining options, including pubs and restaurants, making it a convenient choice for travellers seeking a mix of culture and leisure.
• Riccarton: Situated 7 km from Christchurch Airport, Riccarton is a suburban area that caters to families and business travellers alike. This neighbourhood features shopping centres and historic landmarks like Mona Vale, an urban park that offers a family-friendly atmosphere. With nearby wineries and dining options, Riccarton presents a balanced blend of city life and relaxation, making it a suitable option for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Christchurch Airport: Staying in proximity to the airport allows for easy access to various attractions in Christchurch. The area is convenient for those interested in outdoor experiences, with nearby beaches such as Sumner Beach and New Brighton Beach. Travellers can also enjoy local wineries and vineyards, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and cultural experiences in the region.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Christchurch Airport

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to save money, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you are more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be suitable, but be sure to return the car with an empty tank in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra expense.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your journey. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Christchurch Airport

The best value period to rent a car at Christchurch Airport is June, when prices and demand are at their lowest. May also offers slightly low prices and average demand, making it a good option for renters. Following this, July sees average pricing and lower demand, which can be appealing. However, September tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand, making it less desirable for budget-conscious travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
September	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High