Tips for renting a car inexpensively in Christchurch
Looking for a cheap rental car in Christchurch? With Economybookings, you can compare multiple rental providers to find bargains across New Zealand. So whether you’re planning to explore Canterbury’s coastlines or the Southern Alps, a quick cost comparison can save on time and travel costs.
- Compare pickup locations — Select “Christchurch” rather than the airport or a single depot to unlock more deals, including off-airport savings.
- Adjust pickup times and dates slightly — Even shifting your booking window by an hour can reveal noticeably lower prices.
- Choose economy or compact cars — These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly, and suit Christchurch’s CBD.
- Book early — Peak travel seasons like summer (Dec.-Feb.) and the winter ski months (Jun.-Aug.) see higher prices, so reserving in advance helps secure better rates and availability.
Tips when renting a car in Christchurch
- Public transport is effective in Christchurch’s CBD and inner suburbs — a Christchurch rental car is essential for exploring the surrounding regions.
- Book early during summer and ski seasons — 4WDs and SUVs book up fast.
- Choose a vehicle with good traction and snow chains if you plan on visiting alpine areas like the Southern Alps.
- Ensure your rental insurance covers gravel roads, rural routes, and mountain passes like Arthur’s Pass.
- Document any pre-existing damage on your rental upon pickup, like scratches, worn tyres, etc.
Driving tips in Christchurch
- Left-side driving — New Zealanders drive on the left, and overtake on the right.
- Take care at roundabouts — give way to vehicles on your right, and clearly signal when exiting.
- Use your horn only in case of emergency, as locals view it as a warning.
- Use parking apps like iPark and PayMyPark to find cheaper parking within limited city zones.
- Christchurch’s main motorways are State Highway 1 (SH1) and State Highway 73 (SH73).
- Popular petrol stations: Z Energy, BP, Caltex, NPD.
- Always carry your licence (IDP if not in English), proof of insurance, and rental papers.
Speed limits
Speed limits in Christchurch generally sit around 40-50km/h, rising to 80-100km/h on rural Canterbury roads. Always adjust speed on icy, winding, or steep roads. Fog and strong coastal winds are common on alpine highways. Expect to see plenty of fixed and mobile speed cameras across Christchurch.
Road signs
Christchurch road signs follow the New Zealand standard design: speeds in km/h, yellow diamond warnings, and clear blue service signs. “Frost”, “Ice”, and “Strong Winds” signs signify dangerous driving conditions in mountain passes. Speed camera zones are usually signposted. Signs are in English, accompanied by easily understandable symbols.
Tolls and restricted zones
Luckily for road trippers, Christchurch has no toll roads, as well as no congestion or low-emission zones. This makes navigation and road travel simple and budget-friendly. The only fees you should encounter are for parking and ski field access.
If you decide to venture to the North Island, you’ll have to use toll roads. Tolls are contactless and fully electronic. Before heading north, double-check with your Christchurch rental provider to see how you’ll be charged for tolls.
Discover Christchurch by car
Lovingly known as the “Garden City”, Christchurch offers a blend of parks, riverside trails, quiet beaches, and epic alpine views. Hop in your Christchurch rental car to explore the Canterbury region, or the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps.
With your own vehicle, you can take a post-breakfast cruise from the CBD to the historic French settlement of Akaroa. From behind the wheel of your rental, the entire South Island is open to you, allowing you to discover all of Canterbury’s gems at your own pace.
When to visit
Summer is the most popular time to visit Christchurch, with its warm afternoons and various outdoor events. Ski-lovers should schedule their visit for winter to explore the South Island’s powdery peaks and cute alpine towns. If you seek milder weather and fewer crowds, look no further than autumn or spring.
Languages & communication
While English is the primary language of New Zealand, the Māori language and placenames are common. Mobile coverage in the city is strong, but tends to drop out in remote areas like Arthur’s Pass, so download maps in advance. English speakers are unlikely to face any language barriers.
Currency & payments
Christchurch uses the New Zealand Dollar ($). Contactless payments are widespread, including most petrol stations and roadside cafes. It’s always a good idea to carry a little bit of cash for farmers' markets and remote fruit stalls you find along the way.
Top driving routes from Christchurch
Hop in your rental car to unlock Christchurch’s most stunning drives:
- Akaroa — Winding coastal roads, French settlement, and dolphin cruises.
- Arthur’s Pass/Southern Alps — Breathtaking alpine crossing, with waterfalls, viaducts, and kea birds.
- Lake Tekapo — Turquoise lakes, and the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.
- Kaikōura — Whale watching, coastal drive, and the Seaward Kaikōura ranges.
- Otira — Past Arthur’s Pass village, alpine gorges, misty peaks, deep in the Alps.
- Hammer Springs — Thermal pools, alpine valleys, and the wild Waiau Gorge.
