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Embark on Your Scenic Journey from Picton to Queenstown

Discover the epic landscapes and vibrant towns of New Zealand on a one-way car rental adventure.

Document required for international visitors
  • 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 1-3 years.
  • Form of ID: A valid physical New Zealand national photo ID.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and DinersClub. Some policies also support Debit Mastercard and Visa Debit.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 99. Young drivers aged 21-25 may incur an additional fee ranging from US$10.93 to US$28.17 per day, depending on the rental policy.
  • 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 1-3 years. Requirements include: Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP), Original driving licence + NZTA Translation (certified by the New Zealand Transport Agency), or Original South Korea Driving License (English version with translation on the back).
  • 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, MasterCard, AMEX, and DinersClub. Some policies also support Debit Mastercard and Visa Debit.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 99. Young drivers aged 21-25 may incur an additional fee ranging from US$10.93 to US$28.17 per day, depending on the rental policy.
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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 136-589US$ 0.00-523.90US$ 196-668Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 426-426US$ 303.71-303.71US$ 268-550Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 135-565US$ 0.00-523.90US$ 194-742Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 573-573US$ 303.71-303.71US$ 991-991Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 467-491US$ 303.71-349.27US$ 308-580Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Rental Fees: Understand the additional fees associated with dropping off your rental car at a different location from where it was picked up.
  • Vehicle Availability: Verify if the specific car type you’d like to rent is available for one-way bookings.
  • Drop-Off Locations: Ensure your destination offers convenient drop-off spots to avoid last-minute issues.
  • Cross-Border Policies: Review policies if your travel includes crossing national borders, as some restrictions may apply.
  • Fuel Policies: Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy, as it can vary between full-to-full or pre-paid options.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Scenic Stops Along the Journey: Chart out key points of interest to enhance your travel experience.
  • Book in Advance for Better Deals: Secure your vehicle early to take advantage of promotions and ensure availability.
  • Check Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on weather forecasts to pack accordingly and avoid travel disruptions.
  • Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly: Carry out a thorough inspection to ensure the car is in good condition before accepting it.
  • Allow Extra Time for Return Procedures: Factor in sufficient time for drop-off to avoid unnecessary stress or additional fees.
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
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Mobil - 1 McBride Street, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Z Queenstown - 846 Frankton Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid excessive idling to save fuel.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce fuel consumption.

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Picton Parking

Arrive early to secure parking near the ferry terminal.

Parking in Picton is generally available near the ferry terminal and main streets. Fees vary depending on the area and time of day.

Queenstown Parking

Consider using parking apps to locate and pay for parking in Queenstown.

Queenstown offers several parking options including street parking and dedicated parking lots. Rates can be higher in central areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps such as ParkMate and PayMyPark can assist in finding and managing parking in New Zealand.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure to check for any temporary toll implementations during travel.

Plan your route in advance to confirm toll-free travel.

Currently, there are no toll roads on the route from Picton to Queenstown.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main One-Way Routes from Picton to Queenstown:
The Alpine Scenic Drive via Arthur's Pass
Mountain and Nature Approximately 12 hours over 2 days

This route ventures through Arthur's Pass, offering mountainous landscapes, alpine meadows, and dramatic scenery.

Kaikoura (marine wildlife views) , Christchurch (the Garden City) , Arthur's Pass National Park
The Coastal Journey
Coastal Drive Approximately 15 hours over 3 days

A longer but breathtaking route that hugs the coastline, featuring stunning ocean vistas and marine wildlife.

Kaikoura (whale watching) , Westport (seal colonies) , Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks)
The Inland Scenic Route via Hanmer Springs
Scenic and Relaxation Approximately 14 hours over 2-3 days

Combining lush countryside with opportunities for rejuvenation at Hanmer Springs' hot pools.

Hanmer Springs (thermal hot pools) , Lake Tekapo (stargazing and turquoise waters) , Mount Cook Village
Road Trip Planning Tips

Research Your Route: Ensure you are aware of road conditions, closures, and weather forecasts before traveling.

Fuel Up: Carry enough fuel for remote regions, as petrol stations can be scarce.

Accommodation Planning: Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Follow Road Rules: Familiarize yourself with New Zealand's left-side driving and speed limits.

Emergency Preparedness: Equip yourself with an emergency kit and local emergency contacts.

Winter Driving Awareness: Be cautious about snow and ice conditions on higher-altitude roads during the winter months.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing the right car rental company for your one-way trip from Picton to Queenstown is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Only companies offering one-way rental services should be considered.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis$$HighHigh Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations , Good loyalty program , Wide range of vehicles
Budget$ModerateModerate Affordable rates , Simplified booking process
Hertz$$$HighHigh Premium vehicle options , Excellent customer service , Extensive location coverage
Thrifty$ModerateModerate Low daily rates , Convenient insurance options , Easy one-way arrangements
QEEQ

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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

Queenstown Airport Car Rental Center Information

Airport Operating Hours:

Queenstown Airport operates from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

Rental Car Center Location:

The car rental center is conveniently located near the baggage claim area within the main terminal of Queenstown Airport.

Shuttle Frequency:

Rental agencies not located on-site provide complimentary shuttles every 15-30 minutes.

Airport Transportation:

Public buses and taxis provide convenient options for reaching the airport and nearby areas.

It's recommended to confirm the operating hours of your selected rental agency at Queenstown Airport and reserve your vehicle in advance to secure the best rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for a one-way car rental from Picton to Queenstown?

To rent a car for this route, you will generally need a valid driver's license, a credit card, and meet the age requirements set by the rental company. It's advisable to check specific requirements with the rental provider before booking.

Are there additional fees associated with one-way car rentals?

Yes, most companies charge a one-way fee for returning the vehicle to a different location. This fee varies by company and can depend on seasonal factors or the distance between locations.

Can I choose from different car types for one-way rentals?

Rental companies usually offer a range of vehicles for one-way rentals, from compact cars to larger SUVs. Availability may depend on the specific company and current inventories at the pickup location.

How should I plan my route from Picton to Queenstown?

It's great to research and choose scenic stops along the route, such as Kaikoura for whale watching or Mount Cook for breathtaking landscapes. Allow extra travel time to enjoy sightseeing and ensure you adhere to local driving laws.

Can I pick up and drop off the vehicle outside standard business hours?

Many rental firms provide services for out-of-hours pickup or drop-off, often at key locations like airports. Check with the rental company during booking to explore options and confirm procedures.

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