CHCUpdated April 20, 2026

Getting to and from Christchurch airport

Christchurch · New Zealand

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CHC · Transportation

Ground transportation options

Public transportation, licensed taxis and ride-hailing apps, private transfers and car rental at Christchurch airport (CHC), 12 km from Christchurch. See also the airport guide for general information.

Buses

The Metro public transport service connects the airport with the city centre and various residential areas. The stop is located at the northern end of the international arrivals area, exiting through door 9.

  • Route 3 (Airport - Sumner): Travels via Avonhead Mall, the University of Canterbury, Westfield Riccarton and the city centre (City Interchange).
  • Route 8 (Airport - Lyttelton): Connects with the city centre, Ara Institute, Heathcote and Lyttelton.
  • Route 29 (Airport - City): Direct service to the city centre via Fendalton.
  • Route 125 (Redwood - Halswell): Passes through the airport, connecting areas such as Northlands, Bishopdale Mall and The Hub Hornby.

Payment methods: Tickets can be paid in cash to the driver (exact fare is recommended) or with a Metrocard. Using the card allows access to discounted fares. Transfers are free within 2 hours for all payment methods.

Super Shuttle provides shared or private door-to-door transfers 24 hours a day. The meeting point is located outside the international arrivals hall (door 9). It is a convenient option for passengers with bulky luggage or those seeking a mid-range fare between the bus and a taxi. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your seat.

Taxis

Taxi ranks are located outside the international arrivals area (door 7). The journey to central Christchurch takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Authorised companies operating at the airport include Blue Star Taxis, Corporate Cabs, First Direct Taxis, Gold Band Taxis, King Cabs and Mr. Singh Taxis.

Ride-hailing apps

To use services such as Uber, head to the designated pick-up area located behind the Express Park car park. Upon exiting the terminal (door 7), follow the “Rideshare” signage, which will guide you via the covered walkway. Please note that the airport applies an access fee for these services, which is automatically included in your fare.

Car Sharing

Zilch offers zero-emission electric vehicles by the hour or by the day. You can book a car for your entire stay or for a one-way trip between the airport and the city centre. Vehicles are located on Perimeter Road, on the left before the terminal access barrier. To use the service, register on the company’s website, book via its website or app, and use the Zilch card to unlock the vehicle.

More information about transport

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Tips for getting to and from CHC

Going to the airport

  1. Leave earlier than you think you need to: Christchurch airport is 12 km from Christchurch. Allow for rush-hour traffic, strikes or events, and check the local news before you go.
  2. On public transportation, check the schedule (weekends and holidays usually have fewer services), whether you need to change lines and how to pay: transit card, contactless or cash.
  3. If you booked a shared shuttle, keep the company's phone number at hand in case the pickup is late.
  4. Returning a rental car? Follow the signs to the rental car return area. If you drive your own car, check parking at CHC.

Leaving the airport

  1. After baggage claim and customs, follow the ground transportation signs. The arrivals page has a step-by-step guide.
  2. Arriving late at night? Not every bus or train runs 24 hours: check the last departure in advance. Ride-hailing apps usually pick up at a designated zone, not at the curb.
  3. With a private transfer, the driver usually waits in the arrivals hall with a sign with your name.
  4. Looking for the taxi rank, the train station or the rental desks, or meeting someone? See the CHC airport map and share a meeting point.
  5. Renting a car? Booking ahead gives you better rates; see car rental at CHC.
  6. Staying near the airport? See hotels and overnight stay or hotels near CHC.
German Giudici

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