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Explore the Scenic Route from Dunedin to Christchurch

Plan your journey with our one-way car rental service and experience the beauty of New Zealand.

How much does renting a car from Dunedin to Christchurch 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$ 72/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 73/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 174US$ 107US$ 214Solo travelers, couples
SUVUS$ 176-US$ 241US$ 107US$ 217-US$ 411Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Be aware of additional charges that might apply for one-way rentals.
  • Drop-Off Restrictions: Check if the rental company allows vehicle drop-off in your planned destination city.
  • Route Planning: Plan your journey ensuring there are adequate stops and no restricted roads.
  • Cross-Border Limitations: Verify restrictions if your route crosses into another country or region.
  • Fuel Policies: Understand whether the car must be returned with a full tank and where refueling stations are available.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Research Your Route: Evaluate road conditions and availability of amenities along the way.
  • Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a car type that fits the route’s terrain and your comfort.
  • Book Early: Secure better deals and ideal vehicle options by booking in advance.
  • Understand Insurance Policies: Get clarity on what the provided rental insurance covers.
  • Familiarize with Local Driving Laws: Learn about speed limits and other traffic rules in New Zealand.
  • Carry Emergency Supplies: Equip your vehicle with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, and water.
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

Refueling before returning the car is normally cheaper than purchasing a full tank from the rental company.

Always check the fuel level before leaving the rental station to ensure it matches the agreement.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling when returning the car.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $2.50 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.

Minimize the use of air conditioning during the drive.

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Dunedin Parking

Dunedin offers multiple public parking spaces in the city center with rates ranging from $2 to $4 per hour.

Free parking is available in some residential areas, but restrictions may apply.

Consider using parking garages for longer stays to avoid street parking limits.

Christchurch Parking

Christchurch has numerous parking lots near the city center, with fees averaging $3 to $5 per hour.

On-street parking is available but often limited to a maximum of two hours.

For convenience, use parking apps to locate and reserve spots in advance.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMate: Helps you find and pay for parking in New Zealand.

Wilson Parking: Offers real-time availability and booking options.

PayMyPark: Enables easy payment and management of parking sessions.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Top Scenic Drive Paths Between Dunedin and Christchurch:
Coastal Scenic Route
Scenic Drive 5 hours 30 minutes

Follow the South Island's picturesque coastline with frequent views of the Pacific Ocean.

Seacliff Historic Park , Oamaru , Timaru
Inland Route
Mountain Drive 6 hours

Explore inland landscapes including quaint towns and farmlands.

Middlemarch , Ranfurly , Ashburton
Heritage Trail
Historical Drive 6 hours 30 minutes

Discover New Zealand's rich history through stops at key historical landmarks.

Otago Goldfields , Moeraki Boulders , Christchurch City Centre
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the right vehicle: Plan your rental by considering the route type and preferred driving conditions.

Book in advance: Reserve your preferred car model ahead of time to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Plan your route: Research the roads and sites of interest to optimize your travel experience.

Fuel-up smartly: Locate fueling stations before embarking on a less-traveled route.

Understand insurance options: Check your rental agreement for insurance offerings to avoid unexpected costs.

Budget accordingly: Include costs for tolls, parking, and refreshments while on the road in your planning.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When choosing a car rental company for your journey from Dunedin to Christchurch, consider factors such as the availability of one-way rentals, fleet variety, geographic location coverage, and any additional benefits offered.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis$$Extensive selectionHigh coverage across New Zealand Large selection of vehicles , Convenient pickup and dropoff locations , Road Assistance Program
Hertz$$$Premium options availableNationwide High-end car options , Flexible booking modifications , Advanced safety features in vehicles
Budget$Wide range of affordable optionsLarge network of branches Economical pricing , No hidden fees policy , Convenient mobile application for booking
Thrifty$Good assortment of optionsAvailable in major cities Competitive pricing , Simple booking process , Friendly customer service
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

Car Rental Services at Christchurch Airport

Operating Hours:

Rental centers at Christchurch Airport operate daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Rental Car Pickup and Dropoff Location:

The rental car facilities are located on-site at the Christchurch Airport terminal for easy access.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttle services are available from the terminal to off-airport rental facilities.

Nearby Fuel Stations:

BP and Z Energy petrol stations are within a 5-kilometer radius from Christchurch Airport.

Pro Tips for Dunedin Airport(DUD) Car Rentals

Make sure to refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an additional fee for a one-way rental between Dunedin and Christchurch?

Yes, one-way rentals usually incur an additional fee known as a 'drop fee,' as the car needs to be transported back to its original location. Be sure to check with your car rental provider for specific charges.

What is the typical driving time for the Dunedin to Christchurch route?

The drive between Dunedin and Christchurch typically takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It's advisable to allow for extra time in case of unexpected delays.

Are there fuel stations available along the route?

Yes, there are plenty of fuel stations along the main route between Dunedin and Christchurch. Larger towns such as Ashburton and Timaru are good options for refueling.

Can I return the rental car to Christchurch Airport?

Most car rental companies offer the option to return the vehicle at Christchurch Airport. Ensure you confirm this with your rental provider beforehand and check any associated rules or fees.

Is it necessary to have a credit card to book a one-way rental?

Most car rental companies require a valid credit card for payment and as a security measure. Some may allow other payment methods, but it's important to verify their requirements before proceeding.

Ready to Book Your Dunedin to Christchurch Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ