Queenstown car rental information
| Pick-up location | Queenstown |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Minivan, Passenger van, Premium SUV, SUV, Standard SUV, Supplier choice |
| Rental locations | 66 |
| Airport locations | 53 |
| Popular agencies | Hertz, Sixt, Budget, Rental Cars 247, EZU Car Rental |
Cheap car rentals in Queenstown
| Economy | $28/day |
| Compact | $14/day |
| Intermediate | $40/day |
| SUV | $42/day |
| Minivan | $64/day |
| Full-size SUV | $62/day |
| Passenger van | $82/day |
| Premium SUV | $63/day |
| Compact SUV | $18/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $21/day |
| Standard SUV | $21/day |
| Supplier choice | $34/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Queenstown
- Renting a car during your time in Queenstown is highly recommended as a personal vehicle is the best way to get out of town and check out the gorgeous countryside. For instance, Wanaka at 67 km (41.7 miles) away takes just an hour to reach in a car and it offers some of the most spectacular lakeside views in New Zealand.
- Excited to arrive in Queenstown so you can begin your trip to New Zealand? If you are planning on picking up a rental car after landing at Queenstown Airport, it is quite an easy affair. There are a large variety of rental car counters located right within the airport’s terminal so you can go straight from the plane to driving away.
- A lot of the intersections in Queenstown’s city center lack traffic light crossings so be on the lookout for pedestrians crossing the street. This warning doubly applies during the high season, which lasts from December to March and is when Queenstown sees its largest influx of tourists. Drivers must also remember that you must drive on the left, which is often trickiest to remember at roundabouts, of which there are many in Queenstown.
- Drivers can expect the morning rush hour in Queenstown to pick up at around 6:30 a.m. during the work week and to finish up around 9:00 a.m. As for the afternoon rush hour, it is a bit less severe and starts at 4:00 p.m., then quieting down shortly after 6:00 p.m. The 6A Highway is where drivers will experience the largest backups during rush hour due to the number of commuters going into and out of the city.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Queenstown for $45 or less
- Book your rental car in Queenstown at least 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Off-airport rental car locations in Queenstown are around 56% cheaper than airport locations on average
- Standard rental cars in Queenstown are around 40% cheaper than other car types, on average
Queenstown car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
FAQs about renting a car in Queenstown
What type of car is recommended for driving in Queenstown?
Smaller vehicles such as sedans and compacts are certainly the more popular option for drivers in Queenstown. There are a decent number of SUVs as well, while trucks are much rarer in the city. In general a smaller car is a better bet because many of the city’s streets are somewhat on the narrower side, so parking may be easier in a more compact car.
What’s the speed limit in Queenstown?
Speed limits in Queenstown go from 30 km/h (19 mph) in city centers up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on the largest and fastest of highways. In between those speed limits drivers will commonly see speed limits of 40 km/h (25 mph) in residential areas and speed limits of 60 km/h (37 mph) on city roads. Additionally, speed limits of 80 km/h (50 mph) are found on larger rural roads.
Where are the best places to park in Queenstown?
Parking is an easy affair in Queenstown, thanks to the large number of parking garages and lots in the popular areas of town. For most situations these lots and garages should put you close enough to your final destination. In moments where they don’t, there still is plenty of streetside parking to choose from in most parts of town.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Queenstown?
On average a rental car in Queenstown costs $59 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Queenstown found in the last 2 weeks is $19.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Queenstown?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Hertz ($14/day), Rental Cars 247 ($28/day) and Budget ($34/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Hertz Airport Ave, Frankton 9371 (4 miles from city center).
Can I rent an automatic car in Queenstown?
Yes, automatic cars are available in most car renting companies in Queenstown. As cars with manual transmission are more common in many countries, you might have to pay an additional charge for renting an automatic car.
How much is gas price in Queenstown?
The average gas price in Queenstown is $6.84 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $82 and $109, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Queenstown?
Standard (Toyota Mark X or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Queenstown.
Which car rental companies are at Queenstown Intl airport (ZQN)?
Car rental companies onsite at Queenstown Intl airport include New Zealand Discount Car Rentals, EZU Car Rental, Yes Rentals, Snap Rentals, Budget, EZI, JUCY, Thrifty, Rental Cars 247 and Hitch Car Rentals.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Queenstown Intl airport (ZQN)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Queenstown Intl airport to off-airport locations include Snap Rentals, Budget, EZI, JUCY, Thrifty, Hitch Car Rentals, Avis, Dollar, Go Rentals, and Ace Rental Cars.
How can I find car rentals near me in Queenstown?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Queenstown?
A Standard car rental in Queenstown costs $48 per day, on average.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Queenstown?
An Economy car rental in Queenstown costs $50 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Queenstown?
A Compact car rental in Queenstown costs $50 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, cars are most frequently rented at Budget Terminal Building (4 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Queenstown?
On average a rental car in Queenstown costs $415 per week ($59 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Queenstown?
On average a rental car in Queenstown costs $1,778 per month ($59 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Queenstown?
Most car rental providers in Queenstown offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Queenstown, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Queenstown?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 50 car rental agencies in Queenstown.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Queenstown?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Queenstown?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Queenstown so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Queenstown car rental reviews and directory
Ace Rental Cars
10.0
Wonderful
1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
2 locations in Queenstown
New Zealand Discount Car Rentals
10.0
Wonderful
2 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
9.0
2 locations in Queenstown
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
10.0
Wonderful
2 reviewsCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Queenstown
Europcar
10.0
Wonderful
3 reviewsCleanliness
8.6
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Queenstown
Hertz
9.7
Wonderful
27 reviewsCleanliness
9.7
Comfort
9.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.6
Value for money
9.2
2 locations in Queenstown
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2019
Pros:
The staff was very friendly, and the pick up, drop off was easy too!10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2018
Pros:
Convenient location in the Queenstown Airport. Staff was very helpful.Cons:
Your office had closed for the night one minute after I got my key. What if the car did not start??10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2018
Pros:
Got a personal escort to the terminal from an employee going onto shift. Such a kind and helpful individual. Hertz employs great people!10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2017
Pros:
Very friendly staff. We had a car in less than 5 min.6.0 Okay
Jan 2017
Pros:
I did not rent car through Hertz in QueenstownJUCY
9.5
Wonderful
3 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
9.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.0
Value for money
9.5
One location in Queenstown
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10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2023
8.0 Very good
Aug 2023
Avis
9.4
Wonderful
12 reviewsCleanliness
9.5
Comfort
9.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.2
Value for money
9.0
2 locations in Queenstown
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Reviews
7.2 Good
Nov 2019
Cons:
We waited a long time to pick up the car and there was an extra fee to drop off at the airport, but the car itself was good.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2019
Pros:
perfect!9.6 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
New car with low mileage was a pleasure to drive The service at the downtown Queenstown location was especially good. The rate was reasonable for New Zealand.Cons:
everything good10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2017
Pros:
The customer service was topnotch! She really helped us out in a pinch when we found out our reservation pick up and drop off were not at the airport(s) like we were expecting. The car was in excellent conditions, clean, and modern with its in dash touchscreen system.10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2023
Apex
9.1
Wonderful
3 reviewsCleanliness
9.1
Comfort
8.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.8
Value for money
8.5
2 locations in Queenstown
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2023
8.0 Very good
Mar 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2023
Snap Rentals
8.7
Very good
7 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
9.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.0
Value for money
8.7
2 locations in Queenstown
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Reviews
8.0 Very good
Oct 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2023
2.0 Poor
Mar 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2023
10.0 Wonderful
May 2023
Sixt
8.0
Very good
1 reviewCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.0
Value for money
8.0
One location in Queenstown
Budget
7.6
Good
24 reviewsCleanliness
8.3
Comfort
7.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.3
Value for money
7.6
2 locations in Queenstown
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2020
Pros:
Very easy pick up and drop off, very good quality cars and category as promised for very affordable price. We had to switch cars between NZ islands and it was extremely “trouble-free”.9.6 Wonderful
Mar 2019
Pros:
Friendly and efficient staff with no pressure to purchase add-ons.10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2019
Pros:
Staff was super friendly at pick up. Returning the car wasn’t an issue at all.Cons:
I guess maybe a lower day rate.2.0 Poor
Jan 2019
Cons:
Wait was very long2.0 Poor
Dec 2018
Cons:
they charged me more than the agreed amount and I have not received an answer yet10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
Nice car to log 1,400 kilometers of open country drivingAlamo
7.4
Good
4 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.5
Value for money
7.5
One location in Queenstown
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
121 Glenda Dr, Frankton
+64 800 736 825
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Reviews
9.2 Wonderful
Mar 2017
Pros:
Friendly guys working there.Cons:
It wasn't clear to me that Economy does business as Scotties in Queenstown. Wasn't a big deal, but I was confused about where to wait for the van.7.6 Good
Mar 2017
Pros:
We needed a late arrival and Scottie's was accommodating although a little confusing. The car was right where they said it would be and was clean and ran well.Cons:
We swung by the office the next day to handle the paperwork. The office was open but no employees so we returned the following day to handle it. Glad we had been in town the extra day and our accommodations were near their office.3.6 Poor
Jan 2017
Pros:
The car I ended up with was a hybridCons:
Economy Rent a Car (ERaC) turns out to be more of a broker and contracts other rental companies to provide cars. I arrive in Queenstown where I'm supposed to pick up my car at the terminal, but there is no counter for ERaC. I call the number, but I've been provided their Auckland number, and they tell me I have to call their Queenstown number. It's cold and rainy and I'm making phone calls instead of getting in my car. ERaC Queenstown inform me my car is provided by Scotty's and I have to call them. Scotty's says they are overbooked but they have arranged for another company, Hitch, to provide a car. A Hitch rep calls me and tells me to wait at the commercial car park. I wait. And wait. Then wait some more. A guy comes over and collects some other travelers. Now feeling quite cold, I message the driver and he asks where I am. After a while the guy who recently collected passengers comes over, he's apparently my driver. Turns out there are two commercial car parks and I'm at the 'wrong' one. Nu-huh, signs say otherwise. Now we ride for 10 mins to their office, a makeshift shack in a dirt parking lot. I wait for 25 minutes while he handles the other customers, talks on the phone and directs his staff. So, he doesn't have the car type I reserved but immediately offers to upsell me to a Prius. At this time I've been wasting my precious time in Queenstown and I want to get going, so I accept his offer. It's an extra USD50, but I figure I'll offset some of that with the Prius' better gas mileage. Turns out it's a six or so years old car with 70,000 miles on it, it's dirty and with plenty of nicks and scuffs and a big stain in the trunk. I can live with that, but asks if he has another compact car which is what I reserved. No, but he can give me a smaller car for the same price...I take the Prius. Later I notice that the tires are worn (unsafe in rain) and there is some smear on the inside of the windshield that causes a glare in the sun and other marks on the windows and windshield, similar to what car dealers do to write the price and year etc. It also has a Japanese language audio unit and the trip meter etc is also in Japanese. That's fine if you speak Japanese, but the majority of people visiting New Zealand don't, including me. It also makes a loud beep every time you start the car. The car lacks cruise control. However, the car didn't break down, it got good gas mileage and despite plenty of wet weather I didn't hydroplane with the worn tires. But I'll never use Economy Rent a Car again.10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2016
Pros:
Great staff. Excellent service. Reliable car. The vehicle contributed to a great vacation .3 locations in Queenstown
from $54/dayLocations in Queenstown
1-7 Earl St, St Peters Close
+64 800 243 789
Airport Ave, Frankton
+64 800 243 789
Queenstown New Zealand
+64 3 442 3532
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No reviews available
2 locations in Queenstown
from $56/dayLocations in Queenstown
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One location in Queenstown
from $62/dayLocations in Queenstown
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One location in Queenstown
from $42/dayLocations in Queenstown
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One location in Queenstown
from $44/dayLocations in Queenstown
Terminal Building
+64 3595 1828
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One location in Queenstown
from $44/dayLocations in Queenstown
2/13 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton
+64 9 869 3318
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
from $41/dayLocations in Queenstown
Queenstown Airport
+64 212 863 456
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
from $39/dayLocations in Queenstown
5/156 Glenda Drive, Frankton, Queenstown
+64 210 880 6158
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Terminal Building
+64 3442 5887
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No reviews available
2 locations in Queenstown
from $54/dayLocations in Queenstown
Airport Ave, Frankton
+64 800 737 070
Queenstown New Zealand
+64 3 442 3532
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
from $18/dayLocations in Queenstown
Terminal Building
+64 3777 4100
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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One location in Queenstown
from $82/dayLocations in Queenstown
121 Glenda Drive, Frankton
+64 9373 3925
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No reviews available
2 locations in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
206 Dalefield Rd,queenstown
+64 800 300 123
Queenstown Airport
+64 800 300 123
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Queenstown Airport. Off-airport. 27 Lucas Place, Frankton
+64 21 374 272
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
from $65/dayLocations in Queenstown
Europcar, Queenstown Airport
+64 3 442 5887
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Sir Henry Wigley Dr, Frankton
+64 3777 4110
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
23 Sutherland Lane
+64 21 180 2323
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No reviews available
3 locations in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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2 locations in Queenstown
from $38/dayLocations in Queenstown
Airport Avenue
+64 3442 4106
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No reviews available
2 locations in Queenstown
from $325/dayLocations in Queenstown
23 Sutherland Lane
+54 9 11 5259 9877
Queenstown Airport
+54 9 11 5259 9877
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Sir Henry Wigly Dr
64-3-442-3801
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Queenstown International airport
+64 9889 2976
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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One location in Queenstown
from $31/dayLocations in Queenstown
43 Brookes Road, Frankton, Queenstown, 9371
+64 3 420 2878
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
from $16/dayLocations in Queenstown
180 Glenda Drive, Frankton, Queenstown
+64 800 939 503
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Queenstown Airport - Free Shuttle Service.
+64 3442 5887
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
77 Glenda Drive Frankton
+64 21 748 789
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
5, Glenda Drive, Frankton, Queenstown, New Zealand
+64 800 656 564
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Sir Henry Wigley Drive
+64 3 441 4637
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
121 Glenda Dr., Frankton
+64 800 736 835
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No reviews available
One location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Airport Terminal
+64 3 450 9096
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2018
Pros:
reasonably efficient pickup and drop off . car was good value for moneyOne location in Queenstown
Locations in Queenstown
Terminal Building
+86 10 6064 1387
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No reviews available
Car rental locations in or near Queenstown
Good to know
Most popular agency | New Zealand Discount Car Rentals |
|---|---|
Most popular car type | Standard |
Average price | $59/day |
Good deal | $45/day |