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

Home One-way Car Rentals Invercargill to Christchurch

Can I rent a car from Invercargill to Christchurch?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Invercargill to Christchurch. 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 Morocco or 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 1-2 years, depending on the rental terms.

Notes: Provisional licence is not accepted.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub. Some dealers also accept cash or debit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 100. Young drivers aged 18-26 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 10.43 per day (EUR), US$ 23.18 per day (EUR), or US$ 14.86 per day (NZD), depending on the rental terms.

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 1-2 years, depending on the rental terms. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Original South Korea Driving License (English version)
• Original driving licence + NZTA Translation. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) certifies translations specifically for self-driving rental vehicles.

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 credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub. Some dealers also accept cash or debit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 100. Young drivers aged 18-26 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 10.43 per day (EUR), US$ 23.18 per day (EUR), or US$ 14.86 per day (NZD), depending on the rental terms.

How much does renting a car from Invercargill 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$ 90/day

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 92/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 152	US$ 69	US$ 269-US$ 620	Solo travelers, couples
SUV	US$ 187-US$ 285	US$ 0-US$ 149	US$ 276-US$ 699	Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fee: Be aware of additional fees associated with returning your rental car to a different location than the pick-up site.
Route Planning: Ensure you plan your journey, including required rest stops and attractions along the route from Invercargill to Christchurch.
Vehicle Inspection: Conduct a thorough check of the car and report any damages to the rental service before you start driving.
License and Documentation: Confirm that your driver's license is valid for New Zealand and that you carry all necessary rental agreements.
Road Conditions and Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s driving regulations and road conditions, especially during seasonal weather changes.

Smart Planning Tips:

Plan Rest Stops and Fuel Refills: Map out your journey to include scheduled breaks and locations for refueling, considering the distance covered.
Check Weather Updates: Keep track of the weather forecast to avoid unfavorable conditions that could impact your travel timeline.
Book Early: Secure your rental vehicle in advance for better rates and available options.
Select the Right Vehicle: Choose a vehicle that fits your group size and travel needs, ensuring comfort and sufficient luggage space.
Carry Emergency Tools: Equip yourself with essential tools and contact numbers to handle any on-road emergencies or breakdowns.

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

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

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling to avoid additional charges.

Ensure the fuel tank level matches the requirement specified in the rental agreement.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost in Christchurch is approximately $2.50 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid rapid acceleration to conserve fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to improve fuel efficiency.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to reduce fuel consumption.

Invercargill Parking

Free parking is available in several public areas within Invercargill.

Paid parking lots are available near the city center, costing around $2 per hour.

Consider using parking spaces provided at shopping centers for convenience.

Christchurch Parking

Christchurch offers multiple parking options, including metered street parking and parking buildings.

Hourly rates typically range from $2 to $5, depending on the location.

Some parking facilities offer discounted rates for long-term parking.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMate: Helps locate and pay for parking spots.

Wilson Parking: Offers booking and payment options for Wilson Parking facilities.

PayMyPark: Simplifies parking payments and extensions.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic Routes from Invercargill to Christchurch:

The Southern Scenic Route

Coastal and Scenic 9 hours

This route explores the rugged coastline, visiting highlights like the Catlins Forest Park and observing New Zealand's unique marine wildlife.

The Catlins , Dunedin , Moeraki Boulders , Timaru

The Inland Route via Queenstown

Mountain and Lakes 10 hours

Traverse through New Zealand's breathtaking alpine landscapes, featuring stops at Queenstown and Lake Tekapo.

Queenstown , Cromwell , Lake Tekapo , Fairlie

The Plains Route via State Highway 1

Relaxed and Direct 8 hours

A more straightforward route, focusing on efficient travel along State Highway 1, showcasing rolling farmland and charming towns.

Gore , Balclutha , Oamaru , Ashburton

Highlights for Your Journey:

Queenstown Adventure

2.5 hours

Exploring adventure activities and spectacular views in Queensown.

Exploring Dunedin's History

3 hours

Discover historical architecture, museums, and botanic gardens.

Lake Tekapo Stargazing

2 hours

Experience the dark sky sanctuary offering unmatched stargazing opportunities.

Christchurch City Exploration

Full day

Enjoy the Garden City with its cultural, natural and historical experiences.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Select the right vehicle: Choose a suitable vehicle type based on your route, considering incline, road conditions, and vehicle capacity.

Understand pricing: Review cost estimates, including fuel, one-way fees, and insurance before booking.

Plan key stops: Highlight key spots to ensure smooth navigation across your chosen route.

Fuel considerations: Note fuel availability to avoid running empty, especially in remote stops like Catlins.

Insurance awareness: Verify insurance details and understand coverage options for peace of mind.

Road regulations: Stay updated with New Zealand’s specific road laws to ensure safe driving.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting a car rental company for the Invercargill to Christchurch route requires consideration of fees, coverage, and specific services.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Hertz	$$	High	Wide	Wide vehicle selection , Flexible pick-up and drop-off times , Comprehensive customer support
Avis	$$$	Medium	Good	Well-maintained vehicles , Easy reservation process , Multiple insurance options
Budget	$	Basic	Moderate	Affordable rates , No hidden fees , Frequent deals
Europcar	$$	High	Wide	Luxury car options , Quick checkout , Convenient location network

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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

Invercargill to Christchurch Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers open from 8 AM to 5 PM

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations:

Locations available at major city points and airports.

Shuttle Service:

Free shuttles from Invercargill city center to the rental offices.

Pro Tips for Invercargill Airport(IVC) Car Rentals

Make early reservations during holiday seasons to secure availability and possibly lower fares.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a one-way car rental for the Invercargill to Christchurch route?

One-way car rentals provide flexibility by allowing you to drop off the car at a different location without the need to return to the starting point. This is beneficial for travelers exploring the South Island, saving them time and enabling them to cover more destinations efficiently.

Are there any additional fees for one-way rentals between Invercargill and Christchurch?

Yes, most rental companies charge a one-way fee for the convenience of dropping off the car at a different location. The fee varies depending on the rental company and the season. Checking with your rental provider for specific fees is recommended.

What documents do I need to rent a car for this route?

To rent a car, you typically need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the renter’s name, and proof of identity such as a passport. International travelers might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.

Can I find petrol stations along the route from Invercargill to Christchurch?

Yes, there are numerous petrol stations along State Highway 1, the main route between these cities. Major towns such as Dunedin, Oamaru, and Timaru have multiple refueling options, ensuring convenience during your journey.

Is it possible to return the car at Christchurch Airport after rental?

Yes, many rental companies allow drop-offs at Christchurch Airport. This option is particularly convenient for travelers with onward flights. Ensure the rental company you choose has a depot at the airport for hassle-free returns.

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