CHCUpdated April 20, 2026

Car rental at Christchurch airport

Christchurch · New Zealand

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CHC · Rent a car

Rental companies at the airport

Car rental companies operating at Christchurch airport (CHC) and where to find them. The airport is 12 km from Christchurch. See also the airport guide for general information.

The offices of the main car hire agencies are located on the ground floor of the terminal, in the international arrivals hall, right next to the baggage reclaim area.

Additional car hire options are available in the Christchurch area, offering complimentary shuttle transfers to and from the airport for customers with a booking. The shuttle stop is located outside door 2.

Requirements to hire a vehicle

To rent and drive a vehicle in New Zealand, it is essential to meet the following legal and commercial requirements:

  • Driving licence: You must present a valid and current driving licence. If your licence is not entirely in English, you must also provide an authorised official translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Passport: Foreign visitors must present their original passport as an additional form of identification.
  • Credit card: A credit card in the name of the main driver is required to pay the security deposit.
  • Minimum age: Most companies require a minimum age of 21. Drivers under 25 may be subject to additional daily surcharges and restrictions on certain vehicle categories.

Price comparison

If you wish to compare the different offers available and book the vehicle that best suits your needs, you can use specialised online platforms.

Search and compare car hire at Christchurch Airport

Companies, opening hours and desk locations can change. Check with the rental company before booking.

Compare rental cars at CHC

See prices for CHC on DiscoverCars

Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Tips for renting a car in New Zealand

  1. Check that your driver's license is valid in New Zealand. Some countries also ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is only valid together with your national license.
  2. Review what the rental includes: collision damage waiver, third-party liability and the deductible. Most companies also hold a deposit on a credit card in the driver's name.
  3. Learn the local rules before you drive: speed limits, right of way, alcohol limits and tolls.
  4. In New Zealand traffic drives on the left: the steering wheel is on the right and roundabouts go clockwise.
  5. At pickup, photograph the car (inside and out) and the fuel level, and keep the photos until the deposit is returned.
  6. Know what to do in an accident: who to call, what to document and how to report it to the rental company.

Not driving? See other ways to get to and from CHC. Returning the car or picking someone up: parking at CHC.

German Giudici

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Creator of the Aeropuertos del Mundo website network since 2007.