Affordable Car Rentals in Christchurch, New Zealand

Planning a trip to Christchurch? Our Christchurch branches offer reliable and budget-friendly car rental services to help you explore the city and beyond with ease. Conveniently located near Christchurch International Airport and the city centre, we provide a seamless rental experience for both local and international travelers.​

 

Why Choose Bargain Rental Cars?

Free Cancellation up to 48hrs before pickup in Christchurch

100% Kiwi Owned & Operated for over 25 years

Everyday low prices on Rental Cars Christchurch

We don’t charge credit card fees on payments

on Rental Cars Christchurch

One way hires available to and from Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch

We don’t charge for an additional driver – You can have as many as you want

All hires come with 24hrs roadside assistance

All hires come with free basic insurance for drivers over 25 and you can reduce your excess

We have 15 branches nationwide: Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington & Christchurch

We have a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to SUVs, people movers and minibuses in Christchurch

Book the car instantly using our online booking system

Superb customer service in Christchurch

 

 

Explore Christchurch and the South Island

Christchurch serves as the perfect gateway to New Zealand’s South Island. With your rental car, you can:

Discover Scenic Landscapes: Drive through the picturesque Canterbury Plains, visit the Southern Alps, or explore the coastal beauty of Kaikoura.

Visit Iconic Destinations: Take a road trip to Queenstown, Dunedin, or the West Coast, all within a day’s drive.

Enjoy Local Attractions: Experience Christchurch’s vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and renowned gardens.

Book Your Christchurch Car Rental Today

Ready to start your adventure? Booking is easy and can be done Online or by contacting our Christchurch branch directly on 0800 566 701. Our team is here to assist you with any questions and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Featured Vehicles:

hybrid car rental nz

Hybrid

Toyota Prius or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • Automatic
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 3 Small Bags
  • Airconditioning
  • Petrol
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Airbags
  • Age: 2006 - 2013
rental-car-auckland-nz-9874454122

Toyota Camry (2021-2023) – Premium

Toyota Camry or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 1 Large, 1 Small
  • Automatic
  • 4 Doors
Additional Features
  • 1 Small Bag
  • 1 Large Bag
  • Airconditioning
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Age: 2021 - 2023
cheap-car-hire-nz-8878788

Toyota Corolla Hatch

Toyota Corolla Hatch or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • Automatic
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 3 Small Bags
  • Airconditioning
  • Petrol
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Airbags
  • Age: 2017 - 2018
suv-hire-wellington-nz-554555222

SUV RAV4/Sportage – Premium

Toyota RAV4 or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • 1 Large, 1 Small
  • Automatic
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 1 Small Bag
  • 1 Large Bag
  • Airconditioning
  • Petrol
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Airbags
  • Age: 2017 - 2018
suv-rental-auckland-nz-009878199

SUV Highlander – Premium

Toyota Highlander or similar

  • 7 Passengers
  • 1 Large, 2 Small
  • Automatic
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 2 Small Bags
  • 1 Large Bag
  • Airconditioning
  • Petrol
  • All Wheel Drive
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Age: 2017 - 2018
people mover hire nz

Large People Mover

Toyota Estima or similar

  • 7 Passengers
  • 2 Large, 2 Small
  • Automatic
  • 4 Doors
Additional Features
  • 2 Small Bags
  • 2 Large Bags
  • Airconditioning
  • Petrol
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Age: 2006 - 2016

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is BRC Christchurch Airport branch located inside the terminal?

Our branch is located near the airport and a short 5 minutes ride to the terminal. A free shuttle bus is available to and from the terminal and it is included with your booking.

Do you offer after-hours rental car pickup from Christchurch Airport?

Yes, we offer 24 hours service at Christchurch airport for bookings made in advance.

How much does it cost to hire a car from Christchurch Airport?

Car rental pricing will depend on seasonality and the type of car you require. You can check pricing and availability on our website instantly.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Christchurch?

To rent a car from any of our Christchurch branches, you will have to be at least 18 years old. Please note a Young Drivers Cover of $20/day applies to drivers aged 18 to 24.

Can I pick up a car from Christchurch Airport and return it in another location?

Yes, one-way rentals are available from Christchurch to Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton & Tauranga. Please note additional fees apply.

Do I need an international driver’s licence to hire a car in Christchurch?

Yes, 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

Is rental car insurance included in the rental price ?

Yes Bargain Rental Cars includes basic insurance with all rental cars but there is an excess in case of an incident with the vehicle. Additional options are available for you to reduce the excess.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Christchurch?

You are not required to have a credit card to hire a vehicle from BRC in Christchurch. If you are unable to provide a credit card, you can secure your reservation by cash, EFTPOS or debit card. You will be required to purchase our Platinum Insurance Cover, and a bond of $250 will apply. This bond can be paid by cash, Eftpos or debit card

Are snow chains or ski racks available in winter from Christchurch Airport?

Yes, BRC Christchurch offer optional extras like snow chains and ski racks for additional cost.

Do I need to put a deposit for a rental car booking in Christchurch?

We require at least a 50% deposit on all bookings and this must be paid at the time of booking to secure your reservation. If you wish to pay 50% of your hire at the time of booking, please advise our Reservations Team over the phone/email, or add a note on your online booking request. If not informed, we’ll assume/process the total amount.

Where can I find information on insurance options for a rental car from Christchurch Airport?

If you wish to look at our insurance table, please click here.

What do I need to collect a rental car from Christchurch Airport?

When you come to collect your vehicle, you will need a valid full Driver’s Licence in English and a Credit Card for payment (credit cardholder must be present).

Is child seat available for hire from Christchurch Airport?

Yes, you can select it during the booking process or request over the phone – By NZ road rules, children must be secure in an approved child restraint (click here for more info).


Find us at:

Christchurch City Branch

  • Address: 213 Main South Road, Hornby – Christchurch 8042
  • Trading Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am to 6pm
  • Phone: 0800 566 701

Christchurch Airport Branch

  • Address: 6 Sir Keith Park Place, Harewood – Christchurch 8051
  • Trading Hours: 24 hours Service for bookings made in advance
  • Phone: 0800 566 701

Here is what some customers have to say about us:

You can read more testimonials by clicking here

Helpful Info

About Christchurch:

Christchurch is the biggest city in NZ South Island. It is home of over three hundred and forty thousands residents, making it the 3rd most populous city in NZ. The city was named after Christ Church, a college at the University of Oxford in the UK.

Things to do in Christchurch:

  • International Antarctic Centre
  • Christchurch Gondola
  • Punting on the Avon
  • New Regent Street
  • New Brighton Pier
  • Bridge of Remembrance
  • Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens
  • Canterbury Museum
  • Quake City
  • Air Force Museum

Driving Distances: 

  • Christchurch City Centre to Airport: 11 kms / 22 min
  • Christchurch City Centre to New Brighton Pier: 10 kms / 18 min
  • Christchurch to Kaikoura: 181 kms / 2 h 40 min
  • Christchurch to Blenheim: 310 kms / 4 h 30 min
  • Christchurch to Nelson: 420 kms / 5 h 30 min
  • Christchurch to Mt Cook Village: 330 kms / 4 h 20 min
  • Christchurch to Queenstown: 480 kms / 6 h 10 min
  • Christchurch to Dunedin: 360 kms / 4 h 50 min
  • Christchurch to Invercargill: 570 kms / 7 h 20 min
  • Christchurch to Bluff: 590 kms / 7 h 35 min