Christchurch Airport Car Rentals

The Christchurch International Airport is the main airport serving Christchurch, New Zealand. Opened in 1940, it was the first international airport in the country. It is currently the second busiest airport in New Zealand, after Auckland, with over 5.5 million passengers traveling through the facility on an annual basis. The most recent redevelopment plan, started in 2006, brought a domestic terminal upgrade, a new multi-story car park building, domestic departure lounge, and a new baggage claim area. There are over a dozen airlines offering service out of Christchurch, including some charter destinations. Additionally, some of the destinations are offered on a seasonal basis, so travelers are urged to check with their individual carriers regarding the availability of their desired destinations.

Traveling to the airport can be done a number of ways, including by taxi, shuttle, and one of three city bus routes that provide service to the facility. Additionally, private vehicles can be driven and parked in the on site parking garage. There are three different parking options, ranging from premium (1-2 minute walk to the terminal), to long-term (3-5 minute walk to the terminal), with the latter being the ideal location for travelers that will be away for 3 days or longer. Only the premium building offers covered parking though. Valet parking is available for specific Air New Zealand passengers.

If Christchurch or the surrounding area is the destination, there are several on site car hire companies located within the international arrivals hall, close to the domestic baggage reclaim area. Some of the companies with representatives and cars on site include Avis, Budget, Britz, and Maui Rentals. 

Age restrictions may apply, depending on the rental car company and type of car rented. Most require drivers to be over the age of 21, and hold a driver’s license at the time of rental. Drivers between 21 and 25 years of age are subject to a Young Drivers Surcharge. Many do not require an additional fee to add a driver to the rental agreement, as long as that driver is able to meet the age and license requirements. Most of the car hire companies have a strict no smoking policy in place, with a steep cleaning fee if renters violate this regulation.

Some important reminders when driving in New Zealand include: seat belts are required by law, for all passengers in both the front and back seats; drivers are to keep on the left side of the road; on the open road, the maximum speed limit is 100 kilometers per hour, whereas cities and towns have a maximum of 50 kilometers per hour; random breath testing is often conducted and if a driver is found to be legally intoxicated, heavy fines apply for drunk driving.