Car hire
Queenstown airport

Our Queenstown Airport car hire service is convenient for anyone flying in who wants to jump into a vehicle immediately. But, if you’re arriving another way, or would like to drop off your car somewhere else, we have plenty of other branches around

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You might need a car to make the most of your trip to Queenstown, but that doesn’t mean you have to worry about its environmental impact. Our Queenstown Airport car hire service offers a range of

Our fleet caters to a variety of drivers, group sizes and plans. For maximum efficiency, opt for a compact EV. But, if you want to treat yourself to something special, choose a luxury EV. Either way, you’ll enjoy all the advantages – from whisper quiet operation to energy efficiency. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing you’re not harming New Zealand’s pristine natural beauty.

Every EV comes fully charged, which gives you more than 400 kilometres of driving distance. There are more than 300 EV chargers around the country, so you can plan your route to make sure you never run out of power.

Perched on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, and backdropped by New Zealand’s Southern Alps, Queenstown is famous for its spectacular scenery. You can explore it all – even hidden away places – when you’re behind the wheel of your Queenstown Airport car rental.

A lovely place to start is Queenstown Gardens, which is ideal for a gentle stroll along the two-kilometre loop, or a picnic by the pond. From there, delve deeper into New Zealand’s natural environment with a visit to the Kiwi Park. Its five acres are home to more than 20 species of native wildlife, including, of course, the Kiwi.

To get some perspective, take a ride on the gondola, which travels 450 metres to Bob’s Peak, affording views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. Come Saturday, be sure to leave some time to check out the Queenstown Arts and Craft Market, where you’ll meet local artisans – from jewellery makers and clothing designers to potters and painters.

Once you’ve explored the town thoroughly, you’ll be ready to take your Queensland Airport car rental further afield – whether that’s on a day trip or on an epic journey around New Zealand’s South Island.

Queenstown has something on offer all year round. Deciding when to go comes down to deciding how you’d like to spend your time.

If bungy jumping, boating and hiking are on the itinerary, then summer is the best time to visit. The weather is generally sunny, and all the attractions and trails are open. If you want to see some incredibly colourful sights, then make it autumn. You’ll find some of New Zealand’s most spectacular autumn leaves in Arrowtown and Glenorchy.

In winter, it’s time for skiing. There are four ski fields within easy reach of Queenstown – and they’re among the best in New Zealand. Then, when the snow thaws, spring rolls around, bringing with it blooming gardens, festivals – such as the Queenstown Salsa Festival – and fishing.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a more laid-back type who simply wants to soak up the scenery, there’s an unforgettable experience for you in Queenstown.

For most thrill seekers, bungy jumping will be top of the list. The best known jump is Kawarau Bridge, which sees you fall 43 metres into a gorge before touching the water. If that sounds like too much, try the Kawarau Zipride instead.

Another adrenaline hit that should be a priority is the Nevis Swing. This extraordinary ride sends you 300 metres across a steep valley – and, for double the screams, you can do it in tandem with a friend.

Keen on getting outdoors, but not so keen on heights? The Queenstown Hill Time Walk might be more your style. This three-hour journey takes you on a 500-metre climb through pine forest, past the Basket of Dreams sculpture, to the peak of Te Tapu-nui, where the views are glorious.

Another way to get into nature without taking any risks is a day at Queenstown Hot Pools. Spend an hour soaking in a cedar-lined pool while overlooking mountains, before relaxing into a spa treatment – be it an indulgent facial or a massage.

Finally, no trip to Queenstown is complete without some time on magical Lake Wakatipu. There are many ways to do it – from catching a 100-year-old steamship to jumping in a jet boat.

Queenstown is surrounded by spots that make for a perfect day trip – from charming villages to idyllic valleys made for horse riding,

One of the most interesting is undoubtedly Arrowtown, a tiny town built during the Gold Rush in the 1860s. Learn all about New Zealand’s mining history, wander among 19th century buildings and stroll along the Arrow River. It’s only a 15-minute drive away in your Queenstown Airport car rental, so you’ll have loads of time to explore.

For even more breathtaking natural beauty, make tracks to Lake Wanaka. This 45-kilometre long lake surrounded by mountains, is an adventurer’s wonderland, where you can hike, kayak and mountain bike to your heart’s content.

Then there’s Glenorchy, a town on Lake Wakatipu’s north, around 45 minutes’ drive from Queenstown. The most enchanting thing to do here is a horse ride in the Rees Valley. Plus, if you’re a Lord of the Rings buff, you’ll find yourself recognising loads of scenes.

With its stunning scenery, excellent food and wine, and friendly people, New Zealand’s South Island is made for road tripping. There’s a bunch of ways to put together an itinerary.

If you’re heading west, be sure to experience fjordland, and particularly Milford Sound, which some say is New Zealand’s most beautiful natural wonder. On the way, you might stop at Te Anau, a pretty town perched on a lake, where you can meet glow worms.

Going south? Swing by Invercargill – the country’s most southern city – for gorgeous architecture and great restaurants. Then, make tracks to Dunedin, to wander through lovely gardens, sip coffee in fascinating alleyways and explore local history.

In the east, spend at least a couple of nights in Christchurch, where you can catch a gondola, immerse yourself in a busy arts scene and go penguin spotting. Don’t forget, if you want to finish your trip here, or at another place in New Zealand, our Queenstown Airport car hire service lets you drop off at a location convenient for you.