Bargain Rental Cars offers one-way car hire from Auckland to Christchurch, so you can cross both islands in one car and finish in Canterbury. The drive is about 1000 km plus the Cook Strait ferry.
| Distance | About 1000 km of driving (direct route) |
| Driving time | About 12.5 hours, plus about 3.5 hours on the ferry |
| Ferry | Wellington to Picton (Interislander or Bluebridge); fare not included |
| Pick up | Auckland Airport (free shuttle) or any of our Auckland branches |
| Drop off | Christchurch Airport (free shuttle), Harewood or Hornby |
| Kilometres | Unlimited |
Why drive Auckland to Christchurch one way?
Whether you’re touring, moving south or visiting family, a one-way hire saves you a flight and lets you take everything with you. You see the best of the North Island and the top of the South Island in one trip.
Bargain Rental Cars vehicles are allowed on the Cook Strait ferry, so there’s no changing cars in Wellington.
Suggested 7-day itinerary
- Auckland to Rotorua (about 3 hours). Geothermal parks and the Redwoods treetop walk.
- Rotorua to Taupō (about 1 hour). Huka Falls and a swim or cruise on Lake Taupō.
- Taupō to Napier (about 2 hours). Art Deco streets and Hawke’s Bay wineries.
- Napier to Wellington (about 4.5 hours). Stop in Martinborough, then Wellington’s waterfront and Te Papa.
- Ferry to Picton, then Blenheim (3.5 hours sailing, about 30 minutes driving). Taste Marlborough sauvignon blanc at the cellar doors.
- Blenheim to Kaikōura (about 1.5 hours). Whale watching, seal colonies and fresh crayfish.
- Kaikōura to Christchurch (about 2.5 hours). Drop off at Christchurch Airport or our Harewood or Hornby branches.
How the Cook Strait ferry works
- Book your Bargain Rental Cars one-way hire from Auckland to Christchurch.
- Book a vehicle and passengers ticket from Wellington to Picton with Interislander or Bluebridge. The ferry fare is not included in your rental.
- Book early in summer (December to February), when vehicle spaces sell out.
Driving tips for this route
- Allow time for the ferry. Check-in usually closes about an hour before sailing. Check your ticket for exact times.
- SH1 north of Kaikōura is coastal and winding. Take it slowly and enjoy the views.
- Watch winter roads. The Desert Road can close for snow from June to September. Check NZTA road conditions.
- Moving house? Choose a station wagon or SUV for extra boot space.
Why book with Bargain Rental Cars?
- 100% Kiwi-owned and operated, family business for over 25 years
- Cars allowed on the inter-island ferry
- Unlimited kilometres on every hire
- Free additional drivers
- Free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up
- 24-hour roadside assistance across both islands
- Price Beat: find a cheaper rate and we’ll beat it by 10%*
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Auckland to Christchurch?
The drive from Auckland to Christchurch is about 1000 km and takes around 12.5 hours behind the wheel, plus about 3.5 hours on the Wellington to Picton ferry. Most travellers take 5 to 7 days to enjoy stops along the way.
Can I take a Bargain Rental Cars vehicle on the ferry to the South Island?
Yes. Bargain Rental Cars allows its cars on the inter-island ferry, so you keep the same car from Auckland to Christchurch. Book your vehicle ticket with Interislander or Bluebridge; the ferry fare is not included in your rental.
What is the minimum hire for a one-way Auckland to Christchurch rental?
Bargain Rental Cars requires a minimum 7-day hire for one-way rentals from Auckland to Christchurch. Seven days covers Rotorua, Napier, Wellington, Marlborough and Kaikōura at a relaxed pace.
