Christchurch Carhire has been in business for many years as a family owned and operated rental car company based in Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. For your assistance we have put together our most frequently asked questions regarding our services and New Zealand travel.

Christchurch has a huge range of rental car companies to select from, however we would prefer the personalised services of a smaller company, therefore can you assure me your vehicles are reliable?
At Christchurch Carhire we will provide you with a well-maintained, presentable and reliable vehicle. Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive safety check and full groom before each hire.

Do you only do Christchurch rentals?
No. We have depots located throughout New Zealand, however our head office is based in Christchurch, which is where our business started in the early days. Having said that, we do take great pride in specialising in Christchurch vehicle hires.

Do you offer one way vehicle rental?
The rates shown on our Website apply to round trips, however we are proud to specialise in one-way car rentals for the South Island of New Zealand. We can arrange drop off or collection of your rental car from most South Island locations, including Bluff, Invercargill, Te Anau, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Hokitika,  Blenheim, Kaikoura and pretty much anywhere else you can think of!

Do you hire GPS navigational systems?
Yes! You can now rent a car from us and hire a Navman GPS unit so you are guaranteed to not get lost while driving!

What is included in the rental rates on your Website?
There are no hidden extra costs in our quoted prices! All prices include insurance, unlimited kilometres, GST tax, 24 hour roadside assistance and free maps!

What is AA Roadside Assistance?
All vehicle rental rates include 24 Hour AA Roadside Assistance for peace of mind car rental. AA Roadside Assistance is run by the Automobile Association of New Zealand and is available should you need a tyre changed, run out of fuel or lock your keys in the car. Superior back up services anywhere in the country!

We are planning on visiting all the top ski fields in the South Island so do you have snow chains available for hire?
Optional extras that are available for hire when you book a vehicle include, baby seats, toddler booster seats, snow chains, ski and board racks.

Are your hire vehicles automatic transmission or manual?
We have a range of automatic and manual vehicles. If you have a preferred choice please advise at time of booking.

Is it true that everyone in a vehicle in New Zealand must wear a seat belt?
New Zealand law states that ALL occupants of a vehicle must wear seatbelts at all times, even in the rear seat. Drivers may be given an instant fine of $150.00 if they are not wearing a seat belt.

What is your Cancellation Policy?
Please read our Terms & Conditions for further information.

Is it safe to submit my credit card details via your Website?
Yes. We treat the security of your information very seriously. To ensure your security, all credit card transactions are secured by SSL, which encrypts the credit card number so as to make it unavailable to any other party.

I am an international visitor, what type of driver licence do I need?
All drivers should have held a full driver's licence for two years or longer. A current acceptable overseas, New Zealand or International licence is required from all intending drivers. At the Manager's discretion, a holder of a licence for less than three years is acceptable but may incur higher insurance excess.

If you have any further questions regarding driving in New Zealand we suggest you Contact Us directly.