Bargain Rental Cars Christchurch
We are open 7 days
Branches: Mon-Sun: 8:00am to 6:00pm
Airport: 24hrs
Bargain Rental Cars has 2 branches conveniently located in Hornby and Christchurch Airport area. You won’t need to travel too far to encounter one of our branches. There you will find friendly and knowledgeable staff members to assist you with any queries you might have regarding a rental car or rental minivan.
Bargain Rental Cars Christchurch Airport
We provide 24/7 services to Christchurch airport terminals when bookings are made in advance. Please see more information about our Pick up and Drop off instructions HERE. We operate off airport and a free shuttle service is provided to and from the Christchurch Airport Terminal when collecting or returning your rental car or minivan.
You can easily get a cost estimate for your rental using the booking tool on this page.
Why should you hire a car from us?
Our staff will go the extra mile to provide our customers with an excellent experience from the time of booking to the return of the vehicle.
Here are a few more reasons to choose Bargain Rental Cars:
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- We don’t charge credit card fees on payments
- We don’t charge for additional drivers – You can have as many as you want
- All hires come with 24hrs roadside assistance
- All hires come with free basic insurance for 25+ y/o drivers and you can reduce your excess if you wish to do so
- We have 24 rental locations nationwide. Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch & Queenstown
- We have a wide range of car types and sizes including 12 seater minibuses
- You can get instant free quotes using our online quoting/booking system
- Unlimited Kms for Cars, People Movers, Minivans and Minibuses
- One way hires available to and from Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Queenstown, Wellington and Christchurch
- We are 100% Kiwi Owned and Operated for over 25 years
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much does it cost to rent a car in Christchurch for a day?
The rental car cost in Christchurch for a day will depend on the type of vehicle you require and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $15/day for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Christchurch for a week?
The rental car cost in Christchurch for a week will depend on the type of vehicle you require and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $105/week for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Christchurch for a month?
The rental car cost in Christchurch for a month will depend on the type of vehicle you require and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $450/month for a compact car excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
What car rental type do people usually go for in Christchurch?
SUV is a popular category, followed by touring sedan and commuter compact
How much does it cost for an SUV car rental in Christchurch?
The rental cost for a SUV in Christchurch for a day will depend on the length of the hire, location and the time of the year. During low season, prices can go as low as $30/day for a small/compact SUV excluding insurance and extras. Please use our booking tool to enter your dates and location and the pricing will be available to you instantly.
What rental car companies are available in Christchurch?
You will find various options for rental car companies in Christchurch. From high end to budget. Bargain Rental Cars offer vehicles to suit most requirements, from SUVs, Hybrids, Station Wagons, Sedans, Compact, People Movers and Minibuses.
Which rental car companies offer the cheapest car hire rates in Christchurch?
Bargain Rental Cars offer everyday low prices on car hire in Christchurch. If you find a cheaper option we can beat it by 10%*. Find more details here https://www.bargainrentalcars.co.nz/offers/price-beat/
Which rental car pick-up locations are popular in Christchurch?
Bargain Rental Cars most popular rental locations in Christchurch are: Christchurch Airport and Hornby.
Can I hire a car directly at the airport when I arrive in Christchurch?
Yes, you can. At Bargain Rental Cars for bookings made in advance, a free shuttle pickup is available from the Christchurch Airport terminals to the branch (a short distance from the airports).
Can I pick up the rental car in one location in Christchurch and return it to a different location in New Zealand?
Yes, Bargain Rental Cars offer one-way car rental from and to Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Queenstown, Wellington & Auckland.
Why should I book a rental car in Christchurch with Bargain Rental Cars?
When you rent a vehicle from Bargain Rental Cars, you are supporting a 100% New Zealand owned and operated, family business. You will always be provided with a personal service that ensures you get a rental vehicle that is not only a pleasure to drive but gives you value for money.
What do I need to rent a car in Christchurch?
To hire a vehicle in New Zealand from Bargain Rental Cars you will need a valid car driver’s licence and a credit card for security. If you are unable to provide a credit card, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.
Can I rent a car in Christchurch with a debit card?
Yes, you can with Bargain Rental Cars. If you are unable to provide a credit card for security, you can still hire a car but extra fees such as bond and insurance will apply.
Am I old enough to rent a car in Christchurch?
You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you are 18 years old or older. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.
What are some tips for picking up the right rental car in Christchurch?
- City driving: A compact or economy car is ideal for places like inner Christchurch.
- Road trips: Opt for a comfortable sedan, SUV, or station wagon with enough boot space.
- Mountain or rural areas: Consider a 4WD or AWD for better handling on gravel roads or alpine routes.
- Group travel: Go for a people mover or minibus (6–12 seats) to travel together and save on fuel.
Where can I find an Christchurch car rental if I am younger than 25?
You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you are younger than 25. For drivers aged 18 to 24, Young Driver Cover of $20/day will apply.
Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a car in Christchurch?
You can drive with your home country driver’s licence if it is in English. If your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my Australian Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold an Australian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my U.S. Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a U.S. driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my UK Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a UK driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my Canadian Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a Canadian driver’s licence without any restrictions.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my German Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a German driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my French Driver’s license?
Yes, You can hire a car in Christchurch from Bargain Rental Cars if you hold a French driver’s licence without any restrictions. However, if your driver’s license is not in English, your license must be accompanied by an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) or an approved translation.
Can I drive in Christchurch with my Restricted Driver’s license?
With Bargain Rental Cars, if you’re holding a NZ Restricted Licence, you’ll be good to hire and drive a BRC rental car (Please note: You can only rent cars on your restricted licence. Vehicles such as minibuses and cargo vans are not permitted). For insurance purposes you are subject to the conditions of your licence. You may be liable for any insurance claim should a claim result from driving outside those conditions. You must be at least 18 years of age at the time of pick-up. A Mandatory Insurance fee of $20/day applies with an excess of $4950 in case of any incident with the vehicle.
In Christchurch, is fuel included in the rental?
No. Cars are typically supplied with a full tank and must be returned full.
Are ferry crossing between islands allowed in New Zealand?
You are allowed to take a car from Bargain Rental Cars on the ferry. Please note the ferry cost is not included with the rental.
Are child seats required for children to be in a car in Christchurch?
Yes, by NZ road rules, children must be secure in an approved child restraint (click here for more info).
Can rental car hires be extended in Christchurch?
At Bargain Rental Cars we allow booking extensions, however, this will depend on availability. We cannot guarantee any extension but will do our best to accommodate your request.
Is roadside assistance available with my car rental in Christchurch?
At Bargain Rental Cars, All our vehicles are covered by First Rescue with 24-hour roadside assistance service for any vehicle-related breakdowns.
5 Things to do in Christchurch

1 – The Museums
Christchurch has some interesting Museums and the best part is that most of them are free entry! The Christchurch Museum has collections on the people of the area, the land and animals of New Zealand, Aotearoa before the European arrival, as well as design that is uniquely New Zealand (Kiwi-ana). As Christchurch is the gateway to Antarctica, there is also an exhibit about that continent, as well as the special exhibitions that are regularly planned. The Art Gallery is nearby and is also free, offering an opportunity to enjoy some local and international masterpieces. The Air Force Museum is out of the town centre at Wigram, near the Air Force Base. As well as having a flight simulator, this Museum offers hands-on experiences as you get to try out a number of planes and jets. There is a tour through their exhibits on the history of the Air Force and of Wigram. There is one more museum in Christchurch and it is a beauty. The Antarctic Centre is close to the airport and has a number ofice and snow interactive experiences. Try the cold of an Antarctic storm, or see the Penguins. Ride on a Hagglund, and learn about Scott as well as a 4D adventure, and Huskies visiting.
2 – The Beaches
Christchurch has a number of beaches within a close area. Follow the Avon River to the sea and find Sumner Beach, a strip of beautiful white sand. Along the beach, you will find Cave Rock, a huge lump of lava abandoned at one end of the beach. It resembles the body of a whale, but offersgreat climbing and exploring possibilities. Sumner Beach is a relatively safe beach for family play, while the surf gets bigger further along the coast at Scarborough Beach. Reminiscent of English beaches and their piers, NewBrighton Beach has a 300m in length. In the summer, New Brighton is an active area with free public events held regularly, including the New Zealand Sand Castle competition.
3 – The Playgrounds
Margaret Mahy was a very well-known author of children’s books, and the Playground that bears her name will entertain children as well as she herself did. A childhood wonderland is supposedly the largest playground in the southern hemisphere and offers a wide variety of fun activities. Water cannon, sandpits, climbing frames and a 4m wide slide, as well as a double flying fox, are all there. There is a BBQ and picnic area as well. Imagination Station is a Lego-inspired play area, with workshops and play spaces, and classes in animation, robotics an digital design. Lego, Lego Technic, and Duplo blocks are here to entertain in two locations, Cathedral Junction and New Brighton.
4 – The Surrounding Countryside
Close to Christchurch are a number of interesting destinations. Take the 1.9 km long Lyttleton Tunnel under the Port Hills to Lyttleton Village, Port and Harbour. The deep harbour is the remains of an ancient volcano and is ideal as a port. Today the old stone dock ruins can still be seen where the first European emigrants landed. The township is a charming place to visit. Quail Island lies in the middle of the harbour and is an ideal spot for a day out. Once a leper colony and quarantine station, eight shipwrecks still lie on the far side of the island. Safe swimming spots combined with delightful picnic areas offer a welcome secluded hideaway from everyday life.
A drive through the beautiful hills of the Banks Peninsula to the little French styled town of Akaroa. Here another settled harbour offers more seaside adventures including cruises to see Dolphins. Akaroa is also known for its fine dining.
5 – Parks & Reserves
Christchurch is also known as “The Garden City” due to its great numbers of parks. Hagley Park is located at the heart of the city and offers great spaces for picnics, a relaxing walk or a run. At Riccarton Bush, you will find an ancient native forest. Victoria Park is also a great option for picnic sand views of the coast and the Southern Alps.