Car Rental Timaru

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Top Car Deals in Timaru

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Timaru, Canterbury, NZL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Timaru, Canterbury, NZL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Timaru, Canterbury, NZL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Timaru, Canterbury, NZL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Timaru car rental

These Timaru insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Timaru

Renting a car in Timaru offers the freedom and flexibility needed to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or couples seeking a romantic getaway. You can visit key attractions such as the South Canterbury Museum for a cultural experience, enjoy family outings at Ashbury Park, or appreciate the history of the Timaru Lighthouse. Additionally, a car allows for convenient trips to nearby destinations like Timaru Central, where you can explore Caroline Bay Beach and the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden. Scarborough, just 2 miles away, features the Botanical Gardens and Tuhawaiki Point Lighthouse, while the neighborhood of Maori Hill offers both the Timaru Lighthouse and Caroline Bay Beach. With a rental car, you have the opportunity to discover the scenic beauty and outdoor experiences that Timaru has to offer, all while enjoying the convenience of traveling on your own schedule.

Most popular car rental in Timaru

  • Compact: The most booked car option in Timaru, compact cars accommodate up to 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. They are perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to explore the area. Their smaller size makes them easy to maneuver in urban settings, facilitating parking and travel around Timaru’s attractions at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Timaru

  • Avis: Avis is a top car rental supplier in Timaru, offering the convenience of one rental location in the city. Known for its reliability, Avis features popular vehicle options such as Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it easy for travelers to find the perfect ride for their adventures. With Avis, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring Timaru and its surroundings at your own pace, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Where to stay in Timaru

  • Maori Hill: Nestled around Timaru, Maori Hill is perfect for those seeking scenic views and a romantic getaway. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as the historic Timaru Lighthouse, which is ideal for culture enthusiasts, and the picturesque Caroline Bay Beach, suitable for beach vacations. The South Canterbury Museum is also within reach, offering a glimpse into the region's history. This suburb provides a tranquil atmosphere, making it a great choice for outdoor lovers and couples alike.
  • Timaru Central: Located in the heart of Timaru, Timaru Central is a vibrant neighborhood that caters to adventure seekers and those who appreciate outdoor activities. Visitors can find a variety of shopping and recreational areas nearby, along with access to beautiful landscapes including a beach and lake. Key attractions include the South Canterbury Museum for culture buffs, and the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, which is ideal for family outings and outdoor enjoyment. This area is lively and offers a mix of experiences for all types of travelers.
  • Waimataitai: Waimataitai is a charming suburb that emphasizes beach and outdoor experiences. The area is home to stunning landmarks like Ashbury Park, perfect for family outings and enjoying nature. Visitors can relax at Caroline Bay Beach, which is a favored spot for beach vacations. The historic Timaru Lighthouse is also nearby, adding a cultural touch to your stay. Waimataitai's scenic beauty and beach access make it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind by the water.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Timaru

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Timaru

The best value period to rent a car in and around Timaru is May, when both prices and demand are low. This month offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking better deals. The shoulder months of July and August also present slightly low demand, allowing for reasonable pricing. In contrast, June tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices. February stands out as the busiest month, accompanied by slightly high prices, while December sees increased demand as well.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February46.2°F (7.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
March43.2°F (6.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
May32.4°F (0.2°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
June27.1°F (-2.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July25.0°F (-3.9°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
August26.4°F (-3.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
September28.9°F (-1.7°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October32.5°F (0.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyHighAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Timaru

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Timaru

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Timaru. 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 Timaru

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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One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
Our second best deal of the day
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Timaru?
The daily price of car rentals in Timaru within the past seven days was as low as . With your own affordable ride, the attractions in and around this place are well within your reach.
What happens if I need to cancel my Timaru car reservation?
Our Customer Service Portal has all the info about cancellations. In most situations, complete refunds are available if a prepaid reservation is canceled more than six hours ahead of collecting the car. It's a good idea to scan the car rental agreement to see if there are any exemptions.
Where can I go on a road trip from Timaru?
After you've visited all of the fabulous places in Timaru, there's more to see in the region. Collect the keys to a rental car, toss your luggage in the trunk and get out on the open road. We've pulled together some road trips we know you'll enjoy:
  • Make tracks to Christchurch for a fantastic sightseeing experience. About 90 miles from Timaru, it's home to numerous cool attractions, including Lyttelton Harbour.
  • About 110 miles away, Dunedin is also a favorite with travelers. Make sure you check out Larnach Castle while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this vibrant city.
  • Milford Sound is around 170 miles from Timaru and is one of the region's most scenic nature spots. Go for a walk around and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Timaru with Expedia?
Whatever kind of ride you're searching for, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Simply compare offers from leading rental suppliers and select the option that suits you. Want to hit the road with even more in your wallet? Combine your Timaru car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Timaru?
You'll need to be at least 21 to slide behind the wheel of a rental car in Timaru. Take note that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car classes, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Most suppliers will also charge a fee for young renters. Read through the rules carefully before clicking book and factor any extra fees into your budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Timaru?
Before you can take the wheel in Timaru, you'll need a driver's license and a credit card that matches the name on your license. If you don't take out the rental company's insurance plan, you may also have to provide proof of other coverage. Rules can vary, so understand the policy terms and conditions before you choose a rental provider.
What side of the road do you drive on in Timaru?
If you're renting a vehicle in Timaru or planning a road trip around New Zealand, prepare to drive on the left side of the road. Also, the driver's seat and some controls will be on a different side to what you're accustomed to in the U.S. This may feel unfamiliar at first, so take things slow at the start.
What is the cheapest car rental in Timaru?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the most affordable daily rate was . The second lowest price to rent a set of wheels in Timaru was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Timaru?
Expedia makes it a cinch to find an affordable long-term rental in Timaru. Simply click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip preferences and compare your possibilities.
Where can I find a Timaru car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver hoping to rent a car in Timaru, we recommend checking the policies of the various rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under the age of 25, some may not. There may be surcharges if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To avoid any surprises at the rental desk, make sure you know exactly what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Timaru?
It's a good idea to have collision damage protection to cover your Timaru rental car against accident damage, theft and vandalism. And with Expedia, you can easily purchase this insurance for your vehicle during the booking process. Covering primary physical damage of up to $35,000, it also offers 24/7 emergency support and no deductible in the event of a claim. Have your plans changed? If you cancel your policy before your scheduled collection time, you'll receive a complete refund.
Can I drive in Timaru with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in New Zealand, then you'll likely need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country in order to rent a car. You should also note that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll have to show your driver's license from your home country your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card used to book the rental matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other requirements for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in most places to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before sliding behind the wheel. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive onto ferries or on off-road areas with your rental car.

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