Car Rental South Island

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Top Car Deals in South Island

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
South Island, NZL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
South Island, NZL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
South Island, NZL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
South Island, NZL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your South Island car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around South Island

Renting a car in South Island, New Zealand, offers significant freedom and flexibility for your travel plans. With a rental car, you can explore attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary as needed. This is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, or romantic experiences. For instance, you can easily visit Tekapo-Hotels.d55352.Travel-Guide-Hotels >Lake Tekapo, located just 2 miles away, which is perfect for enjoying beautiful lakeside views. Additionally, Tekapo Springs, a hot spring ideal for relaxation, is only 7 miles from South Island. The Church of the Good Shepherd, also 7 miles away, provides a cultural experience worth visiting. A rental car further enhances your ability to explore nearby cities like Tekapo, 8 miles away, where you can find attractions such as the Sheepdog Statue and Maclaren Footbridge. Mount Dobson, 10 miles away, offers more scenic views and outdoor activities. Overall, having a rental car allows you to enjoy South Island's natural beauty and attractions conveniently, making it an ideal choice for travelers of all types.

Where to stay around South Island

  • Lake Tekapo: Located 7 miles away from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and romantic ambiance. Ideal for relaxation, visitors can enjoy attractions like the rejuvenating Tekapo Springs, the culturally significant Church of the Good Shepherd, and stunning views from Mount John Lookout. The area also offers nearby dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect spot for both adventure and leisure.
  • Tekapo: Situated 8 miles from South Island, Tekapo attracts travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Notable points of interest include the Church of the Good Shepherd, the Sheepdog Statue, and the romantic Maclaren Footbridge. With recreational areas and shopping venues nearby, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a variety of food and drink options, including wineries and restaurants.
  • Mount Dobson: About 10 miles away from South Island, Mount Dobson is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a romantic getaway. The area features a ski field and offers access to beautiful landmarks, such as Lake Tekapo and the culturally enriching Church of the Good Shepherd. Visitors can also explore local shopping areas, making it a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the serene natural landscape.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around South Island

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your travel dates. Booking early often results in lower rates and improved availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this additional cost can be justified by the convenience it offers.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in South Island

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter South Island into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in South Island and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in South Island

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in South Island. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in South Island

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in South Island?
You can find cheap car rentals in South Island from $11 a day with Budget's special cars. From there it's an easy drive to towns like Christchurch and Queenstown. You can find rates from $11 a day if you pick up in Christchurch. Suppliers such as Europcar, Budget, and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the best car rentals in South Island?
Car rentals across South Island offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Europcar, Sixt, and GO Rentals, broadly available in the region's main cities — Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wanaka. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize 4-5 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the best car rental companies in South Island?
For car rentals across South Island, well-rated providers like Europcar, Sixt, and Budget offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wanaka. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Christchurch Airport (CHC) for exploring South Island?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Christchurch Airport (CHC) for exploring South Island. Providers including Europcar, Sixt, and Budget operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. Christchurch Airport (CHC) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Christchurch to Queenstown.
Can I rent a car one-way in South Island?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across South Island — pick up in one city, such as Christchurch, and drop-off in another, like Queenstown, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Europcar and Sixt offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in South Island?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across South Island, including in Christchurch and Queenstown. Europcar offers hybrid plug-in from $11 a day, and Sixt offers electric options from $71 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in South Island?
For luxury car rentals across South Island, Europcar offers premium SUV cars from $32 a day, while Sixt and Budget add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Christchurch and Queenstown. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the best car rentals in South Island for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring South Island, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Christchurch to Queenstown:
  • Budget: midsize SUV from $11 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize passenger van from $75 a day — seats up to 10 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • GO Rentals: fullsize SUV from $64 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the best car rentals in South Island for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in South Island for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Christchurch and Queenstown:
  • Compact car, from $16 a day — fits up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Economy car, from $23 a day — fits up to 5 people with room for 2 medium suitcases, offering great fuel efficiency
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the best car rentals in South Island for couples?
The best car rentals in South Island for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Christchurch and Queenstown:
  • Midsize SUV, from $17 a day — fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $24 a day — fits up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases, with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in South Island.
What are the closest airports to South Island for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across South Island offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC)
  • Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
  • Wanaka Airport (WKA)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.
What are the best road trip destinations from South Island by rental car?
From South Island, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Christchurch hub include:
  • Hagley Park, approximately 2 miles away
  • Kaikoura Beach, approximately 2 miles away
  • Conical Hill, approximately 2 miles away
With cities like Queenstown also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in South Island.
Which side of the road do you drive on in South Island?
In South Island, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in South Island?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in South Island. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in South Island?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in South Island?
Budget car rental in South Island can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in South Island?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in South Island. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your South Island car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in South Island?
To rent a car in South Island, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my South Island car rental?
If you need to cancel your South Island car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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