Car hire \nChristchurch airport
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Christchurch airport

Christchurch airport

24h Return

Address

Ground Floor, Airport Terminal, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand

Business hours

Mon - Sun
07:30 - 21:30
Bank holidays
07:30 - 21:30

Out of hours

Do you want to return your vehicle outside of opening hours?
4.7
Our customers love us
4.7 stars from 337 reviews at Christchurch airport.
Flexible returns
Don't worry when you bring your car back with 24hr returns.
Drive Luxury
Rent one of our top luxury models at our Christchurch airport branch.

Our services at Christchurch airport

Choose the Right Christchurch Car Hire for You: Our Extensive Fleet

Whether you’re exploring the city for a few days or hitting the open road for a trip you’ll never forget, it’s important to find the right car for you.

That’s why we offer a range of

car rentals, catering to a variety of travellers – from solos and duos to families and friend groups.

Travelling on your own or with a good mate, and keeping your luggage light?

You might go for one of our

. They come with space for up to 5 people and are efficient, which is easier on your wallet.

But, if you’re travelling in a group or need extra legroom, then an

could be ideal – and, if
off-road
explorations are on the itinerary, make it a 4WD.

Arriving at Christchurch Airport: Our Customer Service

Travelling is exhilarating, but it can also be stressful.

That’s why we go above and beyond to make sure your Christchurch car hire is an easy, seamless and enjoyable experience. After all, you deserve it – you worked hard to earn your trip to

extraordinary South Island.

You’ll find our welcoming staff at our desk 7 days a week, from 7:30am till 9:30pm. They’re exactly the kind of people you want to see after disembarking a long flight. They’ll welcome you, organise your pick-up and happily answer any questions.

If your flight lands when we’re not around, then we’ll organise an out-of-hours pick-up for you.

Christchurch Airport: How To Pick Up and Drop Off

There’s no easier way to get to the city than with a Christchurch car rental. Step off the plane and into your vehicle – without the hassle of hailing taxis, boarding buses or waiting for trains.

We know Christchurch Airport can be hectic, so we’ve made ourselves easy to find. After landing and collecting your bags, head through international arrivals, then look out for door 8 – we’re just opposite.

Once you’ve spoken with our lovely staff and you’re ready to road trip, leave via door 8 or 9. Go past the taxi rank, walk over the crossing and head for the Christchurch Airport rental car park – it’s clearly marked by signs. The city is just 15 minutes’ drive away.

When it’s time to leave New Zealand’s beautiful South Island and you’re driving back to Christchurch Airport, look out for the signs bearing ‘Rental Car Returns’. Park your car in Row L.

Need help? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our staff, who’ll direct you.

Make Your Christchurch Car Rental Sustainable: Hire an EV

For us – and many of our customers – minimising our impact on New Zealand’s incredible natural environment, while enjoying its beauty, is essential.

That’s why we offer a range of

. Our fleet includes cars for travellers of all kinds and parties of all sizes. If you’re looking for a smooth ride and maximum efficiency, choose an electric sedan. If you need plenty of room – or you’re with
family
or friends – opt for an electric SUV.

Whatever your pick, road trip with peace of mind, knowing your EV is getting you where you want to go, without sending harmful emissions into the South Island’s pristine air.

Unsure about which type of EV Christchurch car rental is right for you? Our friendly staff are happy to help. All you have to do is ask, and we’ll happily share our expert advice.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car at Christchurch Airport?

The price of Christchurch car rentals varies.

Some factors that may influence pricing include the type of vehicle, the length of the hire and the time of year.

It’s also worth considering if you need extras, such as a GPS, car seat, or an additional driver. Plus, you might decide to pay more insurance, to keep your excess to a minimum.

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience New Zealand.

We offer competitive prices on a range of cars, so you can find the right one for you – whether you’re travelling on a shoestring for several months or splurging on a luxurious week or two away.

Through the Seasons: When is the Best Time to Visit Christchurch?

Deciding when to visit Christchurch comes down to deciding what kind of holiday you’re planning.

Summer – from December to February – is the busiest season. The weather is sunny and dry, so it’s ideal for picnicking in parks, wandering along walking trails and lingering at outdoor cafes.

If you’re keen to see some brilliant colours, then book your Christchurch car hire for autumn, when the leaves turn from green to gold, orange and red. You’ll find the most breathtaking scenes in the towns of Central Otago, Arrowtown and Wānaka.

For majestic snowy mountains and incredible skiing, winter is the time to drop by. New Zealand’s longest ski season takes place at Mt. Hutt, just 90 minutes’ drive from Christchurch. Plus, you might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the city itself.

Spring is the season to see Christchurch’s picturesque gardens at their best. See cherry blossoms in Hagley Park, carpets of daffodils along the banks of the Avon River, and riots of tulips and poppies in the Botanic Gardens.

Explore Christchurch: From Punting on the Avon River to Visiting an Edwardian Theatre

Perched on glorious Pegasus Bay, Christchurch is the gateway to New Zealand’s dramatic South Island. A stunning blend of cutting-edge and heritage architecture interweaves with idyllic gardens and secret laneways.

Start your adventure on the gondola. It carries you 500 metres above sea level, affording magnificent views of the city, backdropped by the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains.

Next, explore a different perspective with a punt along the Avon River or a picnic in the Botanic Gardens – where daffodils bloom in spring and autumn leaves tumble in winter.

For art lovers, the Christchurch Arts Centre is a creative feast of galleries, shops and studios, while the city’s laneways frame ever-evolving street art. And don’t miss a show at the Edwardian Isaac Theatre Royal, built in 1908.

All these adventures are bound to work up an appetite. Christchurch has a rich and varied dining scene – from fancy restaurants to small bars to cafes – fuelled by the South Island’s abundant natural produce.

Day Trips from Christchurch: Arthur’s Pass, Hanmer Springs, Waipara Valley

With a Christchurch car rental, the city’s spectacular natural surroundings are your oyster.

For waterfalls and snow-capped peaks, head to Arthur’s Pass, the highest pass across the Southern Alps. The road in is, itself, a wonder of engineering. A stroll along the 6.8-kilometre-long Arthur’s Pass walking track takes in old-growth mountain beech forest, gentle streams and Bridal Veil Falls.

If deep relaxation is the plan, then take your Christchurch car hire to Hanmer Springs, an alpine village to the north – and spend the entire day soaking in thermal pools, in between luxurious spa treatments. For the more intrepid, there are horse rides and mountain biking in summer, and skiing in winter.

Meanwhile, some of New Zealand’s best pinot noir and riesling are on pour in the Waipara Valley. Sample your way through 75 vineyards, stopping among lavender meadows and truffle orchards along the way.

New Zealand’s South Island: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Road Trip

Made famous by the Lord of the Rings film trilogy, New Zealand’s South Island has some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the world.

Travel with a Christchurch car rental – and you’ll be able to get to all the hidden-away places inaccessible by bus, train or plane.

If you’re a die-hard hobbit fan, then you’ll be in your element. Head to Canterbury to see the home of the Rohans, the Southern Lakes to visit Lothlorien and the Waiau River to experience the River Anduin.

Other must-see spots on the South Island include magical Mount Cook (New Zealand’s highest peak), the UNESCO Heritage listed Milford Sound and Abel Tasman National Park, where you can kayak among seals and dolphins.

Adrenaline junkies should be sure to spend at least one night in

. Get your thrills however you want them, from bungy jumping to white water rafting to swinging across a canyon.

Customer reviews & feedback

4.7
4.670854
Based on 337 reviews
from our Customer Excitement Score survey*

Listen to what our customers say

4.9
Vehicle return
4.8
The way to SIXT
4.8
At the SIXT branch

*Our Customer Excitement Score is based on a survey sent to all customers who booked at Christchurch airport. The score is an average of all customer responses.

Good to know when renting at Christchurch airport

What's the minimum age to hire a car at Christchurch airport?
To rent a car with SIXT at Christchurch airport you need to be at least 21 with a valid license. Some car categories have a higher minimum rental age, and an underage driver fee may apply.
Can I modify, extend, or cancel my reservation?
You can modify, extend, or cancel your reservation in Christchurch airport through your manage booking section or through the app.
What documents do I need to hire a car at Christchurch airport?
You need a valid driver’s license held for at least 1 year, depending on the car category. You might also need an International Driving Permit or official translation of the license.
Easily book a long-term rental at Christchurch airport by entering trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations.
Commercial vehicles

Commercial vehicles

We boast a commercial fleet that includes trucks, utes, vans, 4WDs, buses, tippers and mine-spec vehicles.

Auto Club discounts

Auto Club discounts

Exclusive savings and seasonal offers for NRMA, RACV, RACQ, AANT, RAA, RAC and RACT members.

Extras

Extras

From a GPS unit to child booster seats, we've got you covered.

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