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Car rental in Christchurch
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Car rental in
Christchurch

4.5
Our customers love us
4.5 stars from 1,295 reviews in Christchurch.
More flexibility
Change or cancel bookings at no extra cost at most of our locations worldwide.
Better cars
Discover and drive the largest selection of new, premium rental cars.

Our top branches in Christchurch

4.5
Christchurch Airport
24h Return
Ground Floor, Airport Terminal
Christchurch 8053
New Zealand

Our services at Christchurch

SIXT services in Christchurch

We make it quick, easy and hassle-free to organise your Christchurch car hire. Our fleet covers economy, compact, electric cars - including Polestar car rental and saloon classes as well as luxury and sport models, so you’re bound to find the right vehicle for you. It doesn’t matter how long you’re in town, our flexible hire options give you the freedom to choose from one-day, weekend and long-term rental periods. Bookable extras include sat navs, additional drivers and child seats and our customer service team is on hand 24/7 to answer your calls before, during and after your trip.

What to do while in Christchurch

The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island is a must-see destination. The city is home to a wealth of attractions and a stone’s throw away from stunning natural spots that’ll simply take your breath away. Take the charming Christchurch trams to landmarks like the Victoria Clock Tower and the Bridge of Remembrance or stroll down New Regent Street where you’ll find unique boutiques and cafés. Driving out to Godley Head is essential for scenic walks and spotting wildlife by the sea.

SIXT Car Hire Christchurch

Hire a car in Christchurch and experience this wonderful city. It’s our aim to provide you with the ideal vehicle for your trip, which is why you can choose from our extensive fleet of quality cars available across a range of classes and budgets. If you’re planning on cruising the Christchurch coastline, a sleek convertible might be the best option. Perhaps you’ll be venturing into the mountainous countryside surrounding the city, in which case a 4x4 will be better suited. Either way, our branch is conveniently located at Christchurch International Airport for a quick getaway after you land.

Christchurch SUV Rentals

Experience the freedom and flexibility of an SUV rental car from SIXT Christchurch. With their spacious interiors and ample storage capacity, our SUVs are ideal for accommodating larger groups and all your travel essentials. Whether you're planning a family vacation or an adventurous road trip, our 4x4 and SUV rentals will provide the perfect blend of safety, style, and comfort.

At SIXT Christchurch, our seamless online reservation process makes it easy to secure your perfect SUV, so you can focus on planning your itinerary and looking forward to the incredible experiences that await you. Whether you’re looking for a go-anywhere vehicle to get you around the South Island, or a stylish and practical way to explore the Garden City, book your Christchurch SUV rental with SIXT today.

Our tips for renting a car in Christchurch

What Cars do SIXT have available for rent in Christchurch?

We are the only rental car company in New Zealand to feature such a large range of trusted premium, luxury and budget friendly vehicles. The majority of our fleet are less than 6 months old and our core range consists of Audi, Skoda, Seat, Polestar, Range Rover, Toyota & Volkswagen vehicles.

What car do you recommend for driving in Christchurch? For city driving, consider a compact and fuel-efficient vehicle like a Toyota Corolla or Volkswagen T-Roc. These models are great for navigating narrow streets and fitting into small parking spaces. If you need more room and power, am Audi Q5 or Electric Polestar 2 might be more suitable.

What are the speed limits in Christchurch? In urban areas, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h (31 mph). On highways and rural roads, the limit generally increases to 100 km/h (62 mph). Be careful of speed cameras throughout Christchurch to avoid fines.

Best parking options in Christchurch? Downtown Christchurch offers ample parking. The City Council manages several parking facilities, with the Lichfield St. and Contemporary Art Center offering the first hour free. For a unique option, park at Gap Filler on Lichfield and Manchester streets, where fees support local urban regeneration projects.

What is the fuel price in Christchurch? The average fuel price in Christchurch is around $2 per litre. A full tank can cost between $134 and $178, depending on your vehicle's size.

Most popular rental car in Christchurch? Our most commonly rented cars are our practical and spacious SUV’s, such as the Toyota RAV4.

Does SIXT offer airport pickup at CHC? SIXT’s Christchurch branch is in-terminal at Christchurch airport, meaning you have the convenience of picking your rental car up right after you land.

Make your vehicle even more awesome with additional extras.

When renting a car with SIXT New Zealand, our rentals come with third party insurance and are equipped with air conditioning, automatic transmission and Bluetooth.

To give you maximum comfort on the road, we also offer affordable rates on useful extras such as baby seats, chains, additional drivers and insurance packages.

SIXT New Zealand's Guide to Car Rentals in Christchurch

SIXT New Zealand offers an ideal way to experience Christchurch's vibrant renaissance following the 2011 earthquakes. With its lively atmosphere and ongoing transformation, Christchurch presents a unique blend of historic structures, innovative rebuilds, and modern cityscapes. Embrace the freedom of travel with a SIXT rental car, allowing you to see the natural wonders of the Waimakariri River and the Southern Alps and Mt. Hutt, a world-class skiing destination only 90 minutes from the city.

Positioned 12 km northwest of Christchurch's downtown area, Christchurch International Airport is your starting point. SIXT's user-friendly reservation system ensures a smooth transition upon your arrival on the South Island. You'll find a range of vehicles to suit your needs, from budget-friendly models to luxury cars, all conveniently located at the airport.

Driving in Christchurch might require adjusting to the left side of the road, but rest assured, it's a quick and intuitive transition. If you're venturing towards the Southern Alps, remember to check local weather and road conditions.

Compared to major global cities, navigating Christchurch's streets is relatively stress-free. Typical rush hours see increased traffic between 4:30 pm and 6 pm, but the flow remains steady, allowing you to explore the city with ease. Keep in mind that during the winter months (June to August), Highway 73 may experience delays as ski enthusiasts head towards Mt. Hutt. With SIXT, your journey in Christchurch promises comfort, convenience, and the chance to discover the city and beyond at your own pace.

Remember to book your car at least 7 days in advance to secure your Christchurch airport car rental from SIXT.

What to see in Christchurch

If you’re planning a trip to Christchurch, New Zealand, renting a car with Sixt is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Our flexible hire options give you the freedom to choose from one-day, weekend, and long-term rental periods, and our fleet covers economy, compact, electric cars, luxury, and sport models, so you’re bound to find the right vehicle for you. Bookable extras include sat navs, additional drivers, and child seats, and our customer service team is on hand to answer your calls before, during, and after your trip.

Here are some of the best day and road trips you can take with your Sixt rental car in Christchurch:

1. Drive to Akaroa: This charming French-inspired town is located on the Banks Peninsula, just a short drive from Christchurch. The town is known for its beautiful harbor, historic buildings, and excellent restaurants.

2. Explore the Southern Alps: Take a scenic drive to Arthur’s Pass National Park, which is all about nature and scenery and offers plenty of both to explore.

3. Visit Hanmer Springs: This alpine town offers everything from ultimate relaxation to thrill-seeking adventures. The drive to Hanmer Springs is a highlight of the trip, with Waipara’s vineyards and olive groves en route.

4. Discover the Bays of Banks Peninsula: Take a road trip to discover the hidden gems of Banks Peninsula, such as the charming town of Akaroa and the mountain village of Arthur’s Pass.

5. Take a day trip to Kaikoura: Kaikoura is blessed with vast marine wildlife, delicious seafood, passionate locals, and scenic hiking tracks. It’s a great place to visit for a day trip from Christchurch.

Renting a car with Sixt offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, the ability to visit remote locations, and the convenience of having your own vehicle. We hope you have a great trip!

Customer reviews & feedback

4.5
4.489865
Based on 1295 reviews
from our Customer Excitement Score survey*

Listen to what our customers say

4.7
Vehicle handover
4.6
Vehicle return
4.6
The vehicle

*Our Customer Excitement Score is based on a survey sent to all customers who booked in Christchurch. The score is an average of all customer responses.

Good to know when renting in Christchurch

One-way Car Hire

If you are finishing the journey at a separate place simply select a separate location during booking to check if this is an available option.

Available Extras

SIXT can include an extra miles and protection packages, a sat nav systems, or a child seat simply select during booking.

Flexible Hiring Options

Cancellation is free if you select ‘pay later’ while booking a car online, we understand trips are subject to change.

To rent a car with SIXT in Christchurch you need to be at least 21 with a valid license. Some car categories have a higher minimum rental age, and an underage driver fee may apply.

Drive first class in Christchurch. Pay economy.

Pick up the perfect rental car at one of our branches in Christchurch at affordable rates.