One-Way Car Rental from Christchurch to Queenstown | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Christchurch to Queenstown

Can I rent a car from Christchurch to Queenstown?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Christchurch to Queenstown. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for NZ residents

Documents required for international visitors

Form of ID: A valid physical New Zealand national photo ID
Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).

Notes: Provisional licence is not accepted.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Diners Club. Additional support for XpCard and CtCard may be available depending on the dealer.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-20 may incur a fee of US$ 12.14 per day. Drivers aged 21-24 may incur fees ranging from US$ 3.03 to US$ 17.46 per day, depending on the dealer.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
• Original driving licence + NZTA Translation. For Japanese driver's license holders, free online NZTA translations are available.

Notes: Provisional licence is not accepted.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Diners Club. Additional support for XpCard and CtCard may be available depending on the dealer.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-20 may incur a fee of US$ 12.14 per day. Drivers aged 21-24 may incur fees ranging from US$ 3.03 to US$ 17.46 per day, depending on the dealer.

How much does renting a car from Christchurch to Queenstown 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$ 58/day

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 59/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 123-US$ 692	US$ 0-US$ 513	US$ 173-US$ 822	Solo travelers, couples
Medium	US$ 863	US$ 475	US$ 888	Small families, light luggage
Large	US$ 482-US$ 863	US$ 342-US$ 475	US$ 453-US$ 888	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 122-US$ 490	US$ 0-US$ 475	US$ 175-US$ 648	Large groups, long drivers
Van	US$ 222-US$ 933	US$ 0-US$ 475	US$ 268-US$ 773	Large families, groups
Pickup Truck	US$ 260-US$ 586	US$ 0-US$ 342	US$ 526-US$ 714	Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration：

One-way Fee: Certain rentals may include an additional fee for dropping off the vehicle at a different location. Ensure you account for this in your budget.
Route Planning: Plan your route to cover attractions along the way and avoid high-traffic timings.
Distance Considerations: Verify the one-way route's distance and potential limits on miles permitted without additional charges.
Vehicle Availability: Confirm if the type of vehicle you prefer is available for one-way rental across your desired route.
Rental Policy: Different companies have varying policies for one-way rentals; review these carefully to ensure all requirements are met.

Smart Planning Tips:

Reserve in Advance: Booking early can help you secure better rates and vehicle options.
Understand Local Rules: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand road rules to ensure a hassle-free trip.
Inspect the Vehicle: Examine and document the vehicle's condition at pickup to avoid disputes later.
Check Fuel Policies: Know whether the rental operates on a full-to-full or predetermined fuel expectation basis.
Be Travel-Ready: Have all necessary documents, IDs, and the rental agreement ready.

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.

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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.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Plan refueling stops along the route to avoid running out of fuel in remote areas.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price in Queenstown is approximately NZD 2.80 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce drag.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

Christchurch Parking

Parking in Christchurch city center typically costs between NZD 2.50 and NZD 4.50 per hour.

Street parking is available but may have time restrictions.

Consider using public parking lots for longer durations.

Queenstown Parking

Parking in Queenstown can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Rates range from NZD 2 to NZD 5 per hour in central areas.

Look for designated parking areas to avoid fines.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMate

Wilson Parking

Parkopedia

Explore Christchurch to Queenstown by Car

Highlights of Self-Driving Routes:

The Scenic Coast Path

Coastal Scenic 6-7 hours

Follow New Zealand's spectacular eastern coastline, enjoying breathtaking sea views.

Kaikoura , Timaru , Oamaru

The Inland Adventurer

Inland 8-9 hours

Journey through New Zealand's lush inland areas, experiencing rugged mountain views.

Geraldine , Lake Tekapo , Twizel

The Alpine Heritage Trail

Mountain Scenic 9-10 hours

Cross mountain passes and visit quaint towns filled with history and unique charm.

Mount Cook Village , Omarama , Wanaka

Unmissable Journeys Nearby:

Kaikoura Coastal Exploration

2 hours from Christchurch

Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coastal scenery around Kaikoura.

Lake Tekapo Stargazing

3 hours from Christchurch

Visit Lake Tekapo, renowned for its incredible stargazing opportunities within a Dark Sky Reserve.

Queenstown Adventure Start

0 hours from Queenstown

Begin your Queenstown adventure in this hub of thrilling outdoor activities.

Aoraki's Majestic Views

4 hours from Christchurch

Stand tall with New Zealand's tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, offering stunning vistas.

Road Trip Planning Guide

Vehicle Type Selection: Choose a vehicle suitable for your group size and luggage for a more comfortable journey.

Fuel Station Stops: Plan fuel stops ahead as stations can be sparse in remote areas.

Time Management: Allow extra time for unplanned scenic stops or unexpected delays.

Local Gastronomy: Try local food en route; each area offers unique culinary delights.

Driving Conditions Awareness: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand driving rules and road conditions for safety.

Rental Tips: Ensure the rental agreement includes unlimited mileage and check for any hidden fees.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, emphasizing only companies providing one-way rental service.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Avis	$$	High	Wide	Flexible booking options , Good customer service
Budget	$$	Medium	Moderate	Affordable pricing , Convenient locations
Hertz	$$$	High	Wide	Premium vehicle options , Loyalty program discounts
Thrifty	$	Low	Limited	Low-cost rates , Straightforward rental process

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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

Christchurch and Queenstown Car Rental Info

Operating Hours:

Rental centers at both airports generally operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Rental Center Locations:

Facilities are conveniently located at both Christchurch and Queenstown airports, within walking distance from arrivals.

Shuttle Services:

Shuttles are available every 15 minutes to transport customers to off-site rental yards.

Pro Tips for Christchurch Airport(CHC) Car Rentals

Plan the return fuel refill closely to the Queenstown airport, as finding nearby gas stations might be challenging during peak travel times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up the rental car at one location (e.g., Christchurch) and drop it off at another (e.g., Queenstown). This type of rental provides flexibility for travelers who do not intend to return to the starting point.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals?

Yes, most rental companies charge a one-way fee to cover the expense of returning the vehicle to its original location. It’s important to check with the rental provider directly for specifics.

What documents are required for car rental in New Zealand?

You will typically need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn’t in English. A credit card may also be required for the deposit.

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

The drive between Christchurch and Queenstown generally takes around 6–7 hours without stops. With sightseeing and breaks, the trip might extend to 8–10 hours. The journey covers approximately 480 kilometers through scenic landscapes.

Are there any notable stops or attractions along this route?

Yes, there are several attractions along the way, including the Canterbury Plains, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and Lindis Pass. These sites offer opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and exploring New Zealand’s natural beauty.

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Exploring New Zealand: One-Way Car Rentals