Christchurch Airport is the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island, where many travellers start their adventures. From here, you can explore a diverse range of destinations, including scenic landscapes, wildlife hotspots, iconic towns, and relaxing retreats, all in the comfort of a Budget rental car.
South of Christchurch Airport, you’ll find some of the South Island’s top spots, like Wanaka and Queenstown. Known as the adventure capital of the world, these areas are perfect for skiing and all sorts of thrilling activities. Head west, and you’ll be greeted by the stunning Southern Alps with their snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and scenic canals winding through golden grasslands. And at the heart of it all is Mt Cook, the tallest peak in Oceania at 3,724m.
If you're drawn to wildlife and coastal scenery, head north to Kaikoura, a small town internationally famous for whale watching. Drive along Highway 1 and take in spectacular views of the rugged coastline. To the east, Akaroa provides a charming, relaxed atmosphere with a vibrant community of artists, historians, gardeners, and artisans.
Budget car rentals come with unlimited kilometres, free road maps, standard insurance, and 24-hour Roadside Assistance. Optional extras, including GPS Navigation, Excess Reduction, and Child Safety Seats, can be added at the time of booking or rental.
Keep an eye out for our latest car rental Special Offers and let Budget Rental Cars drive your dollar further.
Car Rental at Christchurch Airport
Thanks to a combination of city living and gorgeous heritage, Christchurch is a go-to destination. As the heart of the South Island, it’s the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip. Explore Christchurch’s beautiful gardens and parks, and then set out to discover the stunning landscapes that lie just beyond the city.
From Christchurch, you can embark on scenic drives to coastal gems like Akaroa or journey through the Southern Alps for breathtaking views. Head south to Wanaka and Queenstown for adventure, or drive through the rugged coastlines and picturesque towns like Kaikoura, famous for its whale watching.
At Budget New Zealand, we offer a hassle-free car hire service right at Christchurch Airport, making it easy to hit the road and explore. If you haven’t sorted out your vehicle for your next adventure, let us help you get started on your scenic journey through this remarkable region.
How To Find Our Christchurch Airport Car Rental Desk
Finding the Budget New Zealand Christchurch Airport car hire desks is easy. Head to the International Arrivals Hall and you’ll see our desks next to the domestic baggage reclaim area.
How To Get To Christchurch Airport
As Christchurch Airport only has one terminal, it’s easy to find. If you’re trying to reach it from Christchurch CBD, the journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Things To Do Near Christchurch Airport
With a rental car from Christchurch Airport, you’re all set to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few top recommendations:
Air Force Museum
If you’ve always been fascinated by aviation and the history of flight, head to the Air Force Museum. With 28 classic aircraft onsite and an in-depth guide to how planes have developed over the last century, it’s an educational experience anybody can love. The Air Force Museum is 9.2km away from Christchurch Airport.
Botanic Gardens
For those who love to unwind after a flight, the Botanic Gardens are perfect. With a wide variety of New Zealand native and exotic plants, it’s a serene place to wander and relax. Just 8.7km from the airport, you can spend a peaceful hour or two enjoying the natural beauty.
Riverside Market
Experience local culture at Riverside Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, crafts, and unique items. Located approximately 10km from the airport, it’s a lively spot to enjoy Christchurch’s culinary and artisanal delights, with a drive of around 15 minutes.
International Antarctic Centre
Explore the wonders of Antarctica with interactive exhibits and simulated icy conditions. Just 1km from the airport, it’s a quick 3-minute drive offering a unique glimpse into the frozen continent.
These attractions are all easily accessible with a rental car, ensuring you can make the most of your time in Christchurch.
Nearby Refuelling Locations For A Refuel
Before returning your Budget rental car at Christchurch Airport, make sure to refill the tank. Here are some convenient refuelling stations nearby:
- Allied Petroleum 24/7 Fuel at 75 Orchard Road
- Z Service Station at 449 Wairakei Road
- Caltex at 2 Russley Road
- Mobil Wigram at 243 Main South Road
- BP Truckstop at 661 Russley Road
These locations make it easy to top up your fuel before you return your vehicle.
Your Guide To The Budget New Zealand Fleet
At Budget New Zealand, we offer a diverse fleet of affordable vehicles to meet your travel needs. From spacious SUVs and family estates for group trips to budget-friendly compact cars for solo journeys, we’ve got you covered. We also offer electric car rental and compact hatchbacks for getting around town. Whatever your preference, Budget has you covered.
Distances to Nearby Attractions
One of the great benefits of renting a car from Christchurch Airport is the ease of exploring nearby attractions. Here are some distances to popular spots:
- International Antarctic Centre: 1km
- Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: 8.2km
- Orana Wildlife Park: 12.4km
- Riccarton House and Bush: 7.5km
- Velocity Karts: 19km
With a Budget rental car, you’re perfectly positioned to visit these exciting destinations around Christchurch.
FAQs
Is Christchurch Airport open 24 hours?
Christchurch Airport stays open at night, but the terminal usually closes after the last flight, which is around 11 pm. If you need to hang out overnight, you can relax in the international arrivals hall, which is open all night.
Is there a Qantas lounge at Christchurch Airport?
There isn’t a dedicated Qantas Lounge at Christchurch Airport, but you can use the Associated Lounge instead. If you usually use Qantas lounges, you can use the Associated Lounge instead.
At Budget New Zealand, our Christchurch Airport car hire service is here to help you save money while getting around. To see what we can do for you, explore our fleet.
Can I pick up and drop off my rental car at different locations?
Yes, you can pick up and drop off your Budget rental car at different locations, including other Budget branches in Christchurch, Queenstown or across New Zealand. Just let us know your preferred drop-off location when you book or pick up your vehicle.
What do I need to bring to pick up my rental car at Christchurch Airport?
To pick up your rental car at Christchurch Airport, bring a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the driver's name, and your rental confirmation details. If you’ve booked any optional extras, mention them at the counter.
Christchurch Airport is the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island, where many travellers start their adventures. From here, you can explore a diverse range of destinations, including scenic landscapes, wildlife hotspots, iconic towns, and relaxing retreats, all in the comfort of a Budget rental car.
South of Christchurch Airport, you’ll find some of the South Island’s top spots, like Wanaka and Queenstown. Known as the adventure capital of the world, these areas are perfect for skiing and all sorts of thrilling activities. Head west, and you’ll be greeted by the stunning Southern Alps with their snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and scenic canals winding through golden grasslands. And at the heart of it all is Mt Cook, the tallest peak in Oceania at 3,724m.
If you're drawn to wildlife and coastal scenery, head north to Kaikoura, a small town internationally famous for whale watching. Drive along Highway 1 and take in spectacular views of the rugged coastline. To the east, Akaroa provides a charming, relaxed atmosphere with a vibrant community of artists, historians, gardeners, and artisans.
Budget car rentals come with unlimited kilometres, free road maps, standard insurance, and 24-hour Roadside Assistance. Optional extras, including GPS Navigation, Excess Reduction, and Child Safety Seats, can be added at the time of booking or rental.
Keep an eye out for our latest car rental Special Offers and let Budget Rental Cars drive your dollar further.
Car Rental at Christchurch Airport
Thanks to a combination of city living and gorgeous heritage, Christchurch is a go-to destination. As the heart of the South Island, it’s the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip. Explore Christchurch’s beautiful gardens and parks, and then set out to discover the stunning landscapes that lie just beyond the city.
From Christchurch, you can embark on scenic drives to coastal gems like Akaroa or journey through the Southern Alps for breathtaking views. Head south to Wanaka and Queenstown for adventure, or drive through the rugged coastlines and picturesque towns like Kaikoura, famous for its whale watching.
At Budget New Zealand, we offer a hassle-free car hire service right at Christchurch Airport, making it easy to hit the road and explore. If you haven’t sorted out your vehicle for your next adventure, let us help you get started on your scenic journey through this remarkable region.
How To Find Our Christchurch Airport Car Rental Desk
Finding the Budget New Zealand Christchurch Airport car hire desks is easy. Head to the International Arrivals Hall and you’ll see our desks next to the domestic baggage reclaim area.
How To Get To Christchurch Airport
As Christchurch Airport only has one terminal, it’s easy to find. If you’re trying to reach it from Christchurch CBD, the journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Things To Do Near Christchurch Airport
With a rental car from Christchurch Airport, you’re all set to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few top recommendations:
Air Force Museum
If you’ve always been fascinated by aviation and the history of flight, head to the Air Force Museum. With 28 classic aircraft onsite and an in-depth guide to how planes have developed over the last century, it’s an educational experience anybody can love. The Air Force Museum is 9.2km away from Christchurch Airport.
Botanic Gardens
For those who love to unwind after a flight, the Botanic Gardens are perfect. With a wide variety of New Zealand native and exotic plants, it’s a serene place to wander and relax. Just 8.7km from the airport, you can spend a peaceful hour or two enjoying the natural beauty.
Riverside Market
Experience local culture at Riverside Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, crafts, and unique items. Located approximately 10km from the airport, it’s a lively spot to enjoy Christchurch’s culinary and artisanal delights, with a drive of around 15 minutes.
International Antarctic Centre
Explore the wonders of Antarctica with interactive exhibits and simulated icy conditions. Just 1km from the airport, it’s a quick 3-minute drive offering a unique glimpse into the frozen continent.
These attractions are all easily accessible with a rental car, ensuring you can make the most of your time in Christchurch.
Nearby Refuelling Locations For A Refuel
Before returning your Budget rental car at Christchurch Airport, make sure to refill the tank. Here are some convenient refuelling stations nearby:
- Allied Petroleum 24/7 Fuel at 75 Orchard Road
- Z Service Station at 449 Wairakei Road
- Caltex at 2 Russley Road
- Mobil Wigram at 243 Main South Road
- BP Truckstop at 661 Russley Road
These locations make it easy to top up your fuel before you return your vehicle.
Your Guide To The Budget New Zealand Fleet
At Budget New Zealand, we offer a diverse fleet of affordable vehicles to meet your travel needs. From spacious SUVs and family estates for group trips to budget-friendly compact cars for solo journeys, we’ve got you covered. We also offer electric car rental and compact hatchbacks for getting around town. Whatever your preference, Budget has you covered.
Distances to Nearby Attractions
One of the great benefits of renting a car from Christchurch Airport is the ease of exploring nearby attractions. Here are some distances to popular spots:
- International Antarctic Centre: 1km
- Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: 8.2km
- Orana Wildlife Park: 12.4km
- Riccarton House and Bush: 7.5km
- Velocity Karts: 19km
With a Budget rental car, you’re perfectly positioned to visit these exciting destinations around Christchurch.
FAQs
Is Christchurch Airport open 24 hours?
Christchurch Airport stays open at night, but the terminal usually closes after the last flight, which is around 11 pm. If you need to hang out overnight, you can relax in the international arrivals hall, which is open all night.
Is there a Qantas lounge at Christchurch Airport?
There isn’t a dedicated Qantas Lounge at Christchurch Airport, but you can use the Associated Lounge instead. If you usually use Qantas lounges, you can use the Associated Lounge instead.
At Budget New Zealand, our Christchurch Airport car hire service is here to help you save money while getting around. To see what we can do for you, explore our fleet.
Can I pick up and drop off my rental car at different locations?
Yes, you can pick up and drop off your Budget rental car at different locations, including other Budget branches in Christchurch, Queenstown or across New Zealand. Just let us know your preferred drop-off location when you book or pick up your vehicle.
What do I need to bring to pick up my rental car at Christchurch Airport?
To pick up your rental car at Christchurch Airport, bring a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the driver's name, and your rental confirmation details. If you’ve booked any optional extras, mention them at the counter.
