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Explore Scenic New Zealand with a One-Way Rental

Convenient and flexible car rentals from Christchurch to Dunedin.

How much does renting a car from Christchurch to Dunedin cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 134/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 138/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 213-US$ 224US$ 0-US$ 107US$ 400-US$ 405Solo travelers, couples
SUVUS$ 216-US$ 277US$ 0-US$ 107US$ 414-US$ 635Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 267US$ 0-US$ 107US$ 649Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 260-US$ 306US$ 0-US$ 107US$ 624Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fees: Most car rental companies charge an additional one-way fee for pickups and drop-offs at different locations.
  • Cross-Border Restrictions: Ensure the rental car is permitted for use in all regions you plan to travel through, especially if crossing regional boundaries.
  • Rental Duration: Some companies require minimum duration for one-way rentals; confirm in advance to avoid inconvenience.
  • Vehicle Availability: Certain car models might not be available for one-way rentals; plan your vehicle preferences accordingly.
  • Drop-Off Location Policies: Check the operational hours and policies of the drop-off location to streamline your return process.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early: Booking your rental car early ensures better availability and potentially lower prices.
  • Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the driving route from Christchurch to Dunedin, including stops for fuel and food.
  • Refuel Before Drop-Off: Return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra refueling charges.
  • Adhere to Drop-Off Times: Returning your car late may result in additional charges, so plan your itinerary diligently.
  • Contact Customer Support: If unfamiliar with one-way rental processes, consult with the rental provider to clarify any doubts.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Choose a fuel station close to the drop-off location to ensure the tank is full.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for this route is approximately NZD 2.50 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed on highways to optimize fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Christchurch Parking

Central city parking costs range from NZD 2 to NZD 4 per hour.

Free parking is available in suburban areas.

Use parking apps to locate available spaces in busy areas.

Dunedin Parking

Metered parking in the city center costs around NZD 2 per hour.

Several parking lots offer daily rates ranging from NZD 10 to NZD 15.

Free parking is available in residential areas outside the city center.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMate

Wilson Parking

PayMyPark

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Highlighted Routes from Christchurch to Dunedin:
Coastal Scenic Route
Scenic Drive 7 hours

A breathtaking drive along the east coast with spectacular ocean views.

Timaru , Oamaru , Moeraki Boulders
Inland Route
Inland Drive 6 hours

A direct inland route showcasing the Canterbury Plains.

Ashburton , Geraldine , Waitaki Valley
Heritage and Wildlife Trail
Wildlife Route 8 hours

Combines scenic landscapes with stops at wildlife reserves.

Peel Forest , Elephant Rocks , Penguin Colony
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Research Vehicle Options: Choose a suitable rental vehicle for your group size and luggage requirements.

Plan Your Stops: Identify key stops along the route to enjoy attractions and rest periods.

Fuel wisely: Locate fuel stations along the route to plan efficient refueling.

Pack Essentials: Bring all necessary items including maps, chargers, water, and snacks.

Understand Rental Costs: Carefully review the rental agreement to avoid unexpected expenses.

Drive Safely: Adhere to New Zealand road rules, drive on the left, and watch for wildlife.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right car rental company can make your journey from Christchurch to Dunedin seamless. Ensure to pick a service that offers one-way rentals and fulfills your preferences.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$High – Offers economy to luxury vehiclesHigh – Available across major cities Wide vehicle selection , Reliable customer service , Multiple locations for easy pickup and drop-off
Avis$Moderate – Focused on sedans and compact carsModerate – Services most main cities Affordable rates , Efficient booking system , Good customer feedback
Thrifty$Basic – Economy-focused fleetModerate – Available in key areas Budget-friendly , Good for short-term rentals , Frequent promotions
Europcar$$Varied – Includes SUVs and electric vehiclesHigh – Comprehensive city coverage Diverse vehicle types , Easy online management , Good loyalty benefits
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Information on Car Rental Centers for Christchurch and Dunedin

Operating Hours:

Rental centers in both locations typically operate from 7 AM to 10 PM, but variations exist.

Locations:

Rental centers are situated at Christchurch and Dunedin airports for easy access.

Shuttle Service Frequency:

Shuttles run every 15-20 minutes between terminal and rental locations.

Airport Transportation:

Car return locations are situated near airport terminals for convenient drop-offs.

Pro Tips for Christchurch Airport(CHC) Car Rentals

Always confirm the one-way policy and fees during booking to avoid any surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop off the rental car in Dunedin if I rented it from Christchurch?

Yes, most car rental companies provide one-way rental options, allowing you to pick up the car in Christchurch and drop it off in Dunedin. Be sure to confirm this option during the booking process.

Are there any additional fees for returning a car at a different location?

One-way rentals typically incur an additional fee, also known as a drop-off fee, to cover the retrieval of the car. It’s best to inquire about this fee upfront when booking.

How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Dunedin?

The driving distance between Christchurch and Dunedin is approximately 360 kilometers (224 miles), and the drive typically takes around 5-6 hours depending on traffic and rest stops.

Do I need to refuel the car before returning it in Dunedin?

Generally, rental car agreements require you to return the car with the same fuel level it had at the time of pick-up. Check the specific terms of your rental agreement for fuel policies.

Are winter driving conditions on this route challenging?

Some portions of the route may experience snowy or icy conditions during winter. Ensure the rental car is equipped with appropriate tires and consider checking weather forecasts before departure.

Ready to Book Your Christchurch to Dunedin Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ