Car Hire Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport Mini Guide

The Airport
Approximately 20 minutes from the city is Christchurch International Airport, gateway to New Zealand's South Island and a hub for Antarctic flight operations.  Since beginning as Harewood Aerodrome in 1928, it’s developed into New Zealand's second busiest airport.   With so much to see and do in the historical city and beyond, why not become one of more than 6 million passengers to receive a warm "Haere Mai" (welcome) each year?  Whether you want to enjoy stunning mountain views and superb skiing, to visit the National Parks and World Heritage area in the southwest, or relax in the city to enjoy art, architecture and cultural festivals, this is your start to an unforgettable holiday experience.
 
Onward Bound
To make the absolute best of your visit, car hire is strongly recommended.  If you have hired with Rhino, collect your vehicle in the airport terminal and away you go!  Public transport services include taxis, shuttles and buses.  There are three bus routes to the city centre and various suburbs.  Shuttles provide a door-to-door service to the city and surrounding areas and those going further afield can take regional transport.  For an unforgettable onward journey, try the Tranz-Alpine railway to Greymouth.
 
What's to See and Do Inside?
All the typical passenger facilities are to be found in the airport offering ease of travel and comfort to arriving and departing passengers and there are a variety of places to eat, shop and have fun.  Duty free and retail outlets offer a wide range of stock, from essentials to high-street brands to traditional souvenirs and gifts which include the renowned New Zealand wines.  Airport dining has a lot of choice too: Grab and Fly or enjoy a brew from the Underground Coffee Company; take a healthy option from Healthy Habits or Sakura Sushi Bar, or make your taste buds tingle at Trattoria Milano or Noodle.

The Time Zone family entertainment centre is for those wanting something to do, or just across from the airport buildings an interactive experience awaits at the Antarctic Centre.  A big expansion project has replaced the ageing domestic terminal and further enhance international facilities.  If you or a travel companion needs special assistance, the airport service team is happy to help.  There is medical assistance, mobility parking and specially adapted facilities, as well as wheelchair-friendly taxis and shuttles.

Environmentally Friendly to a Friendly Environment
Christchurch Airport is proactively supporting the stunningly beautiful environment in which it sits.  In 2008 it became the first airport in the Southern Hemisphere to be certified as carbon neutral and proudly displays its Carbon zero logo.

Landing at Christchurch Airport is the key entry point to the whole of the South Island. Many people decide on touring holidays there and collect a pre-booked hire car from the airport before setting off. Spend some nights in this city that is forever destined to be at the mercy of seismic events but marvel at the strong will and spirit of cooperation that is evident in its people.

Outside of the city, a short distance away, are the country’s Southern Alps, often snow covered but stunning in their rugged profile. There you can ski, hike or just enjoy the scenery.