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

Home One-way Car Rentals Queenstown to Picton

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. Supported credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Diners Club. Additional support for XpCard and CtCard may apply depending on the dealer.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees ranging from NZD 10.63 to NZD 20.7 per day, depending on the dealer and age group.

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. Accepted combinations include: Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP), Original South Korea Driving License (English version with translation on the back), or Original driving licence + NZTA Translation (certified by the New Zealand Transport Agency).
Form of ID: A valid passport.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Diners Club. Additional support for XpCard and CtCard may apply depending on the dealer.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees ranging from NZD 10.63 to NZD 20.7 per day, depending on the dealer and age group.

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 Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 43-587	US$ 0.00-455.57	US$ 151-796	Solo travelers, couples
Medium	US$ 77-77	US$ 0.00-0.00	US$ 324-324	Small families, light luggage
Large	US$ 421-421	US$ 303.71-303.71	US$ 268-268	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 45-445	US$ 0.00-1214.86	US$ 151-582	Large groups, long drivers
Van	US$ 126-1632	US$ 0.00-1214.86	US$ 541-2052	Large families, groups
Pickup Truck	US$ 189-466	US$ 0.00-455.57	US$ 308-701	Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fee: One-way rentals often involve an additional fee for returning the car to a different location.
Cross-Island Restrictions: Ensure the car rental supplier permits crossing from the South Island to the North Island.
Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy, whether it's full-to-full or prepaid, to avoid extra charges.
Flexible Scheduling: Plan your trip with enough time to explore stops along the way without rushing.
Vehicle Suitability: Choose a car that aligns with your comfort and mobility needs for the journey.

Smart Planning Tips:

Plan Fuel Stops: Identify and plan fuel stops on remote stretches to avoid running out of gas.
Know the Route: Familiarize yourself with the key stops, driving conditions, and scenic detours en route.
Schedule Scenic Breaks: Take time to enjoy iconic spots like Kaikoura and Marlborough Sounds during your trip.
Review Insurance Coverage: Verify that your car rental's insurance covers all potential stops and road conditions.
Coordinate With Travel Plans: Ensure pick-up and drop-off times align with your flights or accommodation arrangements.

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

Tolls

Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Z - Picton - Service Station - 101 High Street, Picton 7220, New Zealand

NPD Picton Fuelstop - Lagoon Road, Picton 7220, New Zealand

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated for better efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle.

Queenstown Parking

Consider using public transport to avoid parking challenges in busy areas.

Parking costs in Queenstown vary by location, with both free and paid options available. Street parking is limited in the town center.

Picton Parking

Arrive early to secure a spot close to your destination.

Parking in Picton is generally accessible, with several free and paid lots near the ferry terminal.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like ParkMate and PayMyPark can help you locate and pay for parking spaces in advance.

Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure to check for any temporary tolls or road closures before starting your trip.

Plan your route using a GPS app to avoid unexpected detours.

There are no toll roads on the route from Queenstown to Picton, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Explore Scenic Drives from Queenstown to Picton:

Alpine Adventure Route

Scenic Drive 8-10 hours

Travel through the Southern Alps and experience stunning mountain vistas and crystal-clear lakes.

Wanaka , Franz Josef Glacier , Greymouth

Coastal Discovery Route

Coastal Route 12-14 hours

Follow the west coast, showcasing beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and peaceful bays.

Haast , Punakāiki , Westport

Inland Heritage Route

Heritage Drive 11-12 hours

An exploration of inland towns rich in culture and heritage.

Cromwell , Hanmer Springs , Blenheim

Enjoy Unique Destinations Nearby:

Milford Sound Escape

4 hours from Queenstown

Witness majestic fjords and dramatic mountain peaks in this iconic New Zealand destination.

Lake Tekapo Journey

3 hours from Queenstown

Relax by the tranquil blue waters of Lake Tekapo under clear skies.

Golden Bay Retreat

5 hours from Picton

An idyllic haven with golden beaches and charming artisan communities.

Nelson Arts Discovery

2 hours from Picton

Explore Nelson's vibrant art galleries and innovative crafts.

Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Plan the journey with scheduled stops for exploring scenic spots and refueling.

Choose the Right Vehicle: Consider the terrain and distance when selecting your rental car.

Allocate Travel Time: Ensure you have plenty of time to safely enjoy all destinations.

Pack Essentials: Bring supplies like water, snacks, maps, and a first-aid kit.

Understand Rental Costs: Be aware of fuel policies, insurance options, and one-way rental fees.

Locate Fuel Stations: Use apps or maps to find convenient fueling stops along the way.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Picking the right car rental company for a one-way trip involves considering rental fees, vehicle availability, and location access.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Avis Car Rental	$$	High	Wide	International availability , High vehicle reliability , Online booking discounts
Hertz	$$$	Extensive	Extensive	24/7 customer service , Wide range of vehicles including luxury options
Budget Rent A Car	$	Moderate	Reasonable	Affordable pricing , Good for budget travelers , Often available at the airport
Thrifty Car Rental	$$	Moderate	Wide	Affordable options for compact cars , Simple pickup and drop-off 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

Queenstown Car Rental Centers

Rentals at Queenstown Airport:

All major car rental centers are located within the Queenstown Airport precinct for convenience.

Operating Hours:

Each rental center operates typically from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttles transfer customers between the airport terminal and rental facilities regularly.

Ensure your rental car reservation includes specifics on drop-off procedures in Picton to avoid confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an additional charge for one-way car rentals from Queenstown to Picton?

Yes, many car rental companies charge a one-way fee for dropping off the vehicle at a different location from where it was picked up. It’s recommended to confirm this with the rental provider when booking.

What type of vehicle is suitable for the drive between Queenstown and Picton?

The choice of vehicle depends on your needs and preferences. An economical car is suitable for basic travel, but if you’re planning outdoor adventures or have a lot of luggage, an SUV or a larger car might be more appropriate.

Are there sufficient refueling stations along the route to Picton?

Gas stations are available throughout the journey on major roads between Queenstown and Picton. However, it is wise to plan your refueling stops, especially in more remote areas.

Can I include additional drivers in the car rental agreement?

Yes, most car rental companies allow adding extra drivers for a fee. Ensure that all additional drivers meet the rental company’s requirements and have valid driving licenses.

Is it necessary to book a ferry ticket for the car if traveling to Picton?

Yes, if your trip involves crossing the Cook Strait from the South Island to Picton, you should ensure your vehicle is booked on the ferry. Car rental companies may offer guidance or assistance with this process.

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