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Find the best Christchurch campervan rental for your NZ road trip
Located on the east coast of New Zealand in the middle of the South Island, Christchurch is the perfect jumping off point for a campervan road trip. The entire region is well equipped for travel by motorhome, with facilities available in some of the most stunning locations on earth, and Motorhome Republic will help you find, compare and book the ideal vehicle for the trip of a lifetime.
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What you need to know about campervan hire in Christchurch
Top campervan brands in Christchurch
There are plenty of campervan rental companies to choose from in Christchurch City and at Christchurch Airport. With Motorhome Republic, all you need to do is make a search with your chosen travel dates and you'll find vehicles from:
Escape Campervans
Jucy
Kiwi Campers
Mighty
Cheapa Campa
Tui Campers
McRent
Pacific Horizon
Britz
Apollo
Kiwi Motorhomes
And more!
If there are campervan deals currently available, they'll be automatically displayed in the search results, so keep an eye out for great prices.
Campervan rental pick up process from Christchurch
Christchurch City depots
If you have hired a vehicle from a rental company with a city depot, such as Escape Campervans, Cheapa Campa or Road Runner Rentals, you will either need to make your own way to the depot, or if available, arrange a shuttle service from the airport in advance. Once you arrive at the depot, you will be given a tour of the vehicle and information on how and when it must be returned.
Christchurch Airport depots
Most campervan rental companies in Christchurch are located at or near the airport. Christchurch Airport is located a few minutes’ drive from State Highway 1 and you can head north or south when you're ready to hit the road.
Information on how to get the depot will be provided before you arrive. In most cases, this will be a free shuttle service from the airport. It will then be a short ride to finalise your details and pick up your vehicle.
See the map below for where rental companies are located in Christchurch.
It's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific procedures of your chosen Christchurch campervan hire provider, as their operating hours usually run from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Additionally, understanding the peak times for campervan pick-ups can help you anticipate any potential wait times. If you anticipate arriving outside of regular business hours or if your flight is delayed, it's advisable to notify the Christchurch branch in advance.
When's the best time to hire a campervan in Christchurch?
While the summer season (December to February) is the most popular time to visit Christchurch and hire a campervan, the off-peak seasons of Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are the best times for a campervan hire NZ Christchurch adventure, when the rental prices are lower and the weather is milder.
Get the ideal vehicle for your motorhome hire Christchurch trip
Before finalizing your campervan reservation, it's important to consider a few key factors. Start by assessing the size of your travel group and selecting a campervan that can comfortably accommodate everyone and everything.
Rental options cater to various group sizes and preferences. Couples may find 2 berth (meaning sleeps 2) campervans ideal, offering a cozy setup with essential amenities. Small families or groups might prefer 4 berth options, while larger groups can opt for 6 berth campervans or roomy motorhomes. Some rentals even provide campervans equipped with roof tents for extra sleeping space.
Discover the Garden City in your Christchurch motorhome
Nestled amidst the Canterbury Plains on New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch will let you discover timeless natural beauty in this uniquely New Zealand setting combined with urban charm. The incredible regeneration of Christchurch after the devastating 2011 earthquake displays the hard work, ingenuity and creativity of the local population and offers visitors a truly remarkable tourist experience.
Check out these top Christchurch attractions before you hit the road:
- Christchurch Gondola: Get the best view of the city when you ride the Christchurch Gondola to the top of Mount Cavendish.
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Wander through the picturesque Christchurch Botanic Gardens in Hagley Park, featuring a diverse range of plant species, tranquil waterways, and walking paths.
- Avon River: Relax on a traditional punt as you glide along the scenic Avon River, taking in views of the city and surrounding greenery.
- Sumner Beach: Refresh yourself with a dip in the waters of Sumner Beach.
- Lake Tekapo: Year-round, Lake Tekapo offers a captivating spectacle, with pristine waters reflecting the surroundings and local cafes providing panoramic views. At night, it transforms into a stargazer's haven, with guided tours showcasing the Milky Way's splendor.
- Aoraki Mount Cook: Aoraki Mount Cook stands at a towering 3724 meters above sea level, presenting an unforgettable sight against the clear sky. The Hooker Valley Track offers a leisurely day trip, providing stunning views of Hooker Lake, the Mueller Glacier, and Aoraki Mount Cook.
- Hanmer Springs: Hanmer Springs caters to both relaxation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, with natural hot springs offering a serene retreat and scenic walking tracks providing opportunities for tranquil exploration.
- Akaroa Harbour: Akaroa Harbour boasts breathtaking sea views and French heritage, offering dolphin tours for memorable encounters with marine life.
- Kaikoura: Kaikoura offers thrilling marine encounters, including whale watching, swimming with Dusky Dolphins, and seal sightings amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Bumpy Pump Bike Park: Enjoy a range of recreational activities such as mountain biking, swimming, and boating.
Where to stay in Christchurch
Check out these recommended holiday and caravan parks in Christchurch:
Christchurch Top 10 Holiday Park
Situated on the city's outskirts, this premier camping destination offers a plethora of amenities including a giant jumping pillow, playground, indoor heated pool, private spa, library, and games room, ensuring a delightful stay for all visitors.
Amber Park
Recognized with a Certificate of Excellence in 2014, this esteemed campsite is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from the CBD. With well-equipped kitchen, laundry, and bathroom facilities, along with a playground and BBQ area, it promises a memorable experience.
All Seasons Holiday Park
Nestled ten minutes away from central Christchurch, this charming holiday park boasts essential amenities such as a swimming pool, BBQ area, and playground, ensuring a cozy and convenient retreat for travelers.
North South Holiday Park
Located just five minutes north of Christchurch Airport, this picturesque holiday oasis surrounded by lush trees caters to all your travel needs with laundry and kitchen facilities. Additionally, guests can enjoy outdoor swimming pools and a children's playground, making it an ideal destination for families.
Leithfield Beach Holiday Park
Located north of Christchurch, this stopover is perfect for travelers en route to the Marlborough Sounds, offering affordable beach-side accommodation.
The Lake Tekapo Holiday Park
Situated at the upper end of Lake Tekapo, this holiday park allows guests to enjoy proximity to the town centre, the lake's shore, and local hot springs—all within walking distance.
Other interesting places to explore
A campervan trip from Christchurch provides the freedom to go at your own pace, and spend a little extra time experiencing the famous landscapes of New Zealand at every stop.
Travellers going the distance may take their campervan hire to Queenstown, cross Arthur’s Pass to see the glaciers of the West Coast, or drive north to the shimmering beaches of Abel Tasman Holiday Park. Christchurch visitors who are feeling adventurous could even hop on the Cook Strait ferry and visit the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington.
More than Christchurch and outside NZ, enjoy other camper holidays in splendid places around the globe. Come to Melbourne or Darwin or Gold Coast in Australia, uncover London or Edinburgh in UK, embrace Milan or Pisa in Italy. Now you’re ready to go see it all!
Campervan rental Christchurch: Frequently asked questions
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How much is it to rent a campervan in New Zealand?
Rates will depend on availability, the type of Christchurch motorhome you rent, and also on the time of year you’re renting.
How old do you have to be to rent a campervan in Christchurch?
For the majority of suppliers in Christchurch, 21 is the minimum age to hire motorhome rentals—with some exceptions. Our partners have different policies on this requirement, so it is best to check the terms on their respective descriptions. A surcharge may apply for younger drivers.
Is freedom camping permitted in Christchurch?
There are some areas in which freedom camping is allowed like in caravan parks/holiday parks located nearby, but there are conditions. You must be staying in a certified self-contained campervan, with wastewater, toilet and rubbish facilities on board.
Do I need a special driver’s licence to drive a campervan in Christchurch?
No, a standard driver’s licence valid for a year will be accepted. If the driver's licence is not in English, it is advised to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving around Christchurch in a camper rental.
Are there RV rentals with unlimited mileage?
Yes, there are companies that offer unlimited miles. If it is allowed on a certain listing, you can find this information included in the quote. If not, you will be able to view what is included in the base rate and the cost of the extra miles for your chosen camper van rental.
What is the minimum rental period?
The minimum hire duration for campervan rental in Christchurch is usually 7 days. There are a lot of exceptions to this depending on date of travel and availability of the motorhome. Some restrictions to minimum hire periods for peak season travel may apply. One-way rentals are often offered for a minimum of 14 days. Check out the different companies as these terms vary.
Can I change the drop off destination during my hire?
Certainly, you may change your drop-off destination during your tour. In fact, you can pick up your rental campervans in Christchurch and drop the vehicle off in another city in New Zealand. Simply check by searching for your ideal pick up and drop off locations through our website so you can drive to the south, north, east, or west. Note that there may be an additional fee for this service. Book your campervan hire in Christchurch New Zealand with Motorhome Republic now!
What’s included in my campervan rental?
Every vehicle is usually fully equipped with essential amenities for dining, resting, and maintaining cleanliness. This includes bedding, towels, and cooking utensils. Before embarking on your journey, it's advisable to verify with your selected vehicle provider. They may offer additional gear for rent upon request, enhancing comfort and convenience during your Christchurch campervan rental trip.
