Rent a Car at Christchurch Airport – CHC

Convenient Rental Car Pick-Up at Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport (IATA: CHC, ICAO: NZCH) is the South Island’s major gateway, located in Harewood about 12 km northwest of the city centre. Rental-car desks are in the ground-floor Transport Hub right outside the terminal. After baggage claim, follow “Rental Cars / Car Hire” signs—you’ll reach your desk in under 5 minutes. Booking with Final Rentals means minimal queues and a fast start to your adventure.

Proximity to Key Destinations

• Christchurch city centre: Approx. 12 km (15–20 minutes) via Memorial Ave and SH 73.

• Akaroa: 85 km (~1.5 hours) southeast—perfect for a French-village day trip.

• Arthur’s Pass: About 150 km (~2 hours) west for alpine scenery.

• Lake Tekapo: Roughly 225 km (~3 hours) southwest via SH 8.

• Queenstown: Approx. 480 km (~6 hours) south—ideal for a multi-day South Island loop.

A rental car from Christchurch Airport gives you total control—no fixed itineraries or group delays.

About Christchurch International Airport (CHC)

Airport Code: IATA: CHC | ICAO: NZCH

Location: 30 Durey Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand.

Facilities & Services

• Integrated International & Domestic terminal with covered walkways.

• Rental-car desks in the Transport Hub are directly opposite arrivals.

• Free Wi-Fi, eateries, ATMs, and currency exchange.

• Ample short- and long-term parking with accessible facilities.

• The compact, modern layout at CHC ensures a seamless rental pickup, even after long-haul flights.

Car Hire at Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Rental counters are clearly signed in the Transport Hub. With Final Rentals, show your confirmation, driver’s licence, passport, and credit card—then walk to your nearby vehicle. Return is just as easy: follow “Car Rental Return” signs, park in the marked bays, and drop keys. Full-to-full fuel policy is standard; fuel stations are 2 minutes away on Memorial Ave.

Transportation Between the Airport and Local Areas

• Driving: Fastest and most flexible; motorways connect to city, Canterbury Plains, and Southern Alps.

• Public Transport: Buses run regularly but limit luggage and rural access.

• Taxi / Ride-share: Convenient yet costly for multi-stop or off-peak travel.

Renting a car at Christchurch Airport is the smartest way to explore the diverse South Island.

Other Features & Travel Tips

• Driving Side: Left-hand side, right-hand steering wheel.

• Speed Limits: 50 km/h urban, 100 km/h open road unless signed lower.

• Road Conditions: Sealed highways are excellent; gravel is common in the high country—choose 4×4 if needed.

• Parking: City centre metered zones; free supermarket lots outside peak hours.

• Fuel Price Estimate: Around NZ$2.60–3.00 per litre for 91 unleaded in 2025.

• Seasonal Advice: Winter (Jun–Aug) may bring snow chains requirement—book early in summer for best deals.

Contact Information

Address: Christchurch International Airport (CHC), Durey Road, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 358 5029

Website: christchurchairport.co.nz

How to Book Your Rental Car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Step 1: Go to the top of this page or download our online car rental booking app, select “Christchurch Airport (CHC)” as pickup. Input dates/times.

Step 2: Pick your class:

• Economy / Compact: City & couples.

• Intermediate: Extra luggage space.

• SUVs / 4×4s: Gravel & mountains.

• Vans / 7-Seaters: Families.

• Premium: Comfort upgrade.

Step 3: Pay with a credit card; instant confirmation.

Step 4: Review age (21+), insurance, fuel, extras (child seats, GPS).

Step 5: At CHC, head to the Transport Hub desk, present the documents, inspect the car, and drive off. Return follows clear signage.

Ask More About Car Rental at Christchurch Airport

What documents are required to rent a car at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?

To rent a car at Christchurch Airport, present a valid driver’s licence held for at least one year, your passport or ID for verification, and a credit card in the main driver’s name to cover the security deposit. If your licence isn’t in English, bring an International Driving Permit or official translation. Adding extra drivers online ensures they’re fully covered under the rental agreement.

How much does it cost to hire a car at Christchurch Airport?

The cost to hire a car at Christchurch Airport starts from around $10 to $18 USD per day for economy vehicles. Mid-size and luxury cars typically range from $30 to $70 USD daily. Prices fluctuate based on vehicle type, rental duration, and season. Full-to-full fuel policy applies—prices exclude extras like young-driver fees.

What is the minimum age to rent a car at Christchurch Airport?

The minimum age to rent a car at Christchurch Airport is 21 years old. Drivers aged 21 to 24 typically face a young-driver surcharge and may have restrictions on vehicle categories like premium SUVs or 4x4s, which often require the driver to be 25 or older. Always verify specific age policies and licence-holding periods when making your online booking to avoid issues.

Can I book a car rental at Christchurch Airport online?

Booking your car rental at Christchurch Airport online through Final Rentals ensures lower rates, a wider selection of vehicles, and guaranteed availability at pickup. You can choose your preferred car type, add useful extras like GPS or child seats, and review all terms upfront, eliminating last-minute surprises at the counter.

Is there a credit card requirement for car rental at Christchurch Airport?

A credit card in the main driver’s name is required for car rentals at Christchurch Airport to handle the security deposit and any additional charges. While some companies may accept debit cards, this often involves higher holds or extra requirements. Cash deposits or prepaid cards are generally not accepted for the initial hold, so plan accordingly for a smooth process.

Where are the car rental desks located at Christchurch Airport?

Car rental desks at Christchurch Airport are conveniently located in the ground-floor Transport Hub, directly opposite the terminal exit in the arrivals area. After clearing customs and collecting baggage, simply follow the clear “Rental Cars / Car Hire” signage—it’s a short 2–3 minute walk on foot, making pickup quick and hassle-free even for tired travellers.

What is the fuel policy for car rentals at Christchurch Airport?

The standard fuel policy for car rentals at Christchurch Airport is full-to-full: you pick up the vehicle with a full tank and must return it full to avoid refuelling fees. Nearby stations on Memorial Avenue are just 2 minutes away for easy top-ups. Always keep your receipt as proof, and note that partial returns will incur per-litre charges plus a service fee.

Can I drop off the rental car at a different location than Christchurch Airport?

One-way car rentals from Christchurch Airport to other locations like Queenstown, Dunedin, or even Auckland are widely available but come with an additional drop-off fee based on distance. Specify your intended drop-off point during online booking to confirm availability and costs. For inter-island travel, ferry arrangements and prior approval from the rental company are typically required.

Are there hidden fees when hiring a car at Christchurch Airport?

While no fees are truly hidden, potential extras at Christchurch Airport include young-driver surcharges for ages 21–24, one-way drop-off charges, after-hours pickup or return fees, mandatory snow chains in winter, or optional gravel-road protection. A complete cost breakdown is provided during online booking, so review carefully to understand the total and avoid any unexpected additions.

What driving side and speed limits apply when renting a car at Christchurch Airport?

In New Zealand, including routes from Christchurch Airport, you drive on the left-hand side of the road with the steering wheel on the right. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on open roads unless signs indicate otherwise. Always watch for variable rural signs, obey limits to prevent fines, and adjust for unfamiliar left-side driving.

What vehicle types are available for hire at Christchurch Airport?

Christchurch Airport offers a full range of vehicles: economy and compact cars ideal for city driving and couples, intermediate sedans for added comfort and luggage, SUVs or 4x4s suited for gravel roads and mountains, 7-seater vans perfect for families or groups, and premium luxury options for upgraded travel. Booking early online ensures you get exactly the class you need.

How far ahead should I book a rental car at Christchurch Airport?

To secure the best rates and vehicle availability at Christchurch Airport, book online at least 1–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak summer months or ski season. Early reservations lock in lower prices and prevent sold-out scenarios, while last-minute bookings often result in higher costs and limited choices.

What insurance coverage is included when renting a car at CHC?

Basic third-party liability insurance is included in your Christchurch Airport rental, covering damage to others but not the rental vehicle itself or theft. Optional add-ons like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection, or zero-excess policies are recommended, especially for gravel roads. Consider gravel protection for South Island routes and check if your personal or credit card insurance overlaps to avoid duplicates.

Where do I return the rental car at Christchurch Airport?

Return your rental car at Christchurch Airport by following the prominent “Car Rental Return” signs leading to designated bays in the Transport Hub area. Park in the marked spots, allow time for a quick inspection with staff, and drop the keys as instructed. Plan for a 15–20 minute buffer before your flight, particularly during busy periods, to ensure a smooth departure process.

Are tolls applicable when driving from Christchurch Airport?

There are no toll roads in or around Christchurch, so all routes from the airport—including to the city, Akaroa, or Arthur’s Pass—are completely free of electronic or manual tolls. No toll tags are needed locally, but if your journey later extends to Auckland areas with toll sections, clarify with your rental provider how any charges will be handled or billed.

What support is available for after-hours returns at Christchurch Airport?

After-hours returns at Christchurch Airport are fully supported by Final Rentals. Simply park in the designated return area within the Transport Hub, drop the keys into the secure after-hours box, and contact the 24/7 support line if needed. Always confirm this option at pickup and note any specific instructions to avoid potential fees or complications upon your return.