Best car rental in Queenstown: Comprehensive guide

You already know that when you want to explore a destination at your own pace, following the fixed schedule of public transport can feel restrictive. And in a beautiful place like Queenstown, having your own car is not just convenient, it’s also liberating. You won’t be tied to bus schedules. You won’t have to rush through a place you love. And you can also explore beyond the popular tourist spots. And that’s exactly where renting a car makes so much more sense. 

In Queenstown, public transport works fine for short distances. But if you’re planning long drives, or day trips to Glenorchy, or Mount Cook National Park, renting a car is the better call. To help you out, we’re breaking down the best car rental companies in Queenstown. Let’s dive in.

Which are the best car rentals in Queenstown?

Queenstown has a mix of global brands and strong local players. Some are great for budget travelers, while others are perfect if you want premium vehicles or flexible rental terms. Here are 6 solid options to consider.

1. Apex Car Rentals

Apex is a New Zealand-based car rental company that has been operating since 2010. It’s known for offering competitive pricing, and has a pretty straightforward rental process. While it may not have the same global recognition as international brands, it delivers excellent value for money, and is popular with domestic tourists. 

Locations

Apex operates from the Queenstown Airport. 

Booking options

Primarily online bookings, with offline support available.

Additional services

• Vehicles are covered by standard motor vehicle insurance.
• Some makes and models have built-in GPS navigation systems.
• Roadside assistance.
• Child safety seats available at an additional cost.
• Airpoints Dollars™ on every booking you make in New Zealand.

Types of cars available

• You can book cars like Hyundai i30, Mitsubishi ASX, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan X-Trail, Hyundai Sante Fe, and even 12-seater cars like Toyota HiAce.

One-way rentals

Yes, intercity rentals are available.

2. JUCY

JUCY is well-known in Australia and New Zealand. Founded in 2001, it is especially popular with travelers and road trippers because of its fleet of campervans and motorhomes. Having said that, you can also book from a selection of cars, if the larger vehicles are not your cup of tea. 

Fun fact: You’ll spot JUCY’s bright green and purple vehicles all across New Zealand. 

Locations

JUCY operates from Queenstown city, with complimentary shuttle service from the Queenstown Airport.

Booking options

Online bookings are the main option. Unless you’re already in town, then you can walk into the JUCY office and book a vehicle there.

Additional services

• Insurance packages.
• GPS and navigation.
• Roadside assistance.
• Travel deals and bundles.

Types of cars available

• You can book campervan & motorhomes.
• You can also book from a limited selection of small hatchbacks and compact SUVs.

One-way rentals

Yes, available between airports.

3. GO Rentals

As one of New Zealand’s largest independent car rental companies, GO Rentals offers a modern fleet with options to suit different travel styles. Beyond just vehicles, they also provide helpful trip planning resources and local travel tips. With over 20 years of experience, GO Rentals focuses on making the entire car hire process smooth and convenient.

Locations

Their Queenstown airport office is a minute’s walk from the arrivals terminal.

Booking options

Booking can be done online or through their app. But if you want, their team is available over the phone to assist with questions or reservations. 

Additional services

• Free airport transfers.
• Additional driver options.
• Climate-friendly partnerships.
• Trip planner, guides and travel blog.
• Insurance coverage.
• GPS and extras.
• 24/7 roadside assistance.

Types of cars available

• 4WDs like Toyota Rav4, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Toyota Land Cruiser.
• Small cars like Toyota Corolla Hatch, Suzuki Swift, and Toyota Yaris. 
• Large cars/SUVs like Mitsubishi ASX, and Toyota Corolla Sedan.
• Tesla electric vehicles.
• Vans or people carriers like Kia Carnival, Ford Kombi, and Toyota Hiace.

One-way rentals

Yes, intercity rentals are available.

4. Hertz

Founded in 1918, Hertz is one of the oldest and most widely recognized car rental companies in the world. With a presence in over 150 countries, it offers a level of consistency and reliability that many travelers value. In Queenstown, Hertz offers a wide range of cars, from compact models for city drives to SUVs suited for scenic routes. If you’re looking for the best car rental in Queenstown with a trusted global name, Hertz is a great choice.

Locations

3 locations across Queenstown, including the Queenstown Airport.

Booking options

Booking can be done through website, mobile app, and physical counters.

Additional services

• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program for faster pickup and rental points.
• Digital check-in through the Hertz mobile app.
• 24/7 roadside assistance.
• Vehicle replacement services.
• GPS navigation devices and satellite radio options.
• Insurance protection packages.

Types of cars available

• Economy and compact cars like Chevrolet Spark, and Nissan Versa.
• Sedans and midsize vehicles like Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Sonata, and Nissan Altima.
• SUVs and crossovers such as Toyota RAV4, and Chevrolet Equinox.
• Large SUVs such as Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition.
• Electric vehicles including Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt.
• Luxury and sports vehicles such as BMW 5 Series, Porsche Macan, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals are available.

5. Budget

Budget was built on a simple idea: Offering affordable car rentals without compromising on the essentials. The company operates in around 3,500 locations across 120+ countries, making it a familiar and accessible option for travelers worldwide. In Queenstown, it’s an awesome option if you’re planning to explore the region while keeping the costs in check. 

Locations

Budget operates from 2 locations – one at the airport, and one downtown. 

Booking options

Website, app, and counter bookings accepted.

Additional services

• Budget-friendly pricing.
• Add-ons like GPS and child seats.
• Insurance coverage.
• Fuel plans.
• Roadside assistance.

Types of cars available

• Budget offers cars like Ford Escape, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Kicks Play, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Malibu, as well as 7-seaters like Chrysler Pacifica.

One-way rentals

Yes, one-way rentals are available.

6. Avis

Avis has been operating since 1946 and is one of the most recognized car rental brands globally. In New Zealand, it’s known for its reliable fleet, smooth booking process, and excellent service quality. Their cars are usually newer, well-maintained, and suitable for both city driving and longer road trips across the South Island.

Locations

Avis operates at 8 locations in Queenstown, including a counter at the Queenstown Airport.

Booking options

You can book online as well as in-person.

Additional services

• GPS and child seat add-ons.
• Additional driver options.
• Insurance packages.
• Roadside assistance.
• Long-term rental deals.
• Avis Preferred loyalty program with expedited pickup.
• Roadside assistance and emergency support services.

Types of cars available

• Compact and midsize sedans like Hyundai Elantra, and Nissan Altima.
• SUVs and crossovers including Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.
• Premium SUVs such as Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Toyota Highlander.
• Luxury sedans like BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
• Minivans such as Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Grand Caravan.
• Electric vehicles at select locations.

One-way rentals

Yes, you can rent in one city and return in another.

Choosing the right car rental in Queenstown

Renting a car in Queenstown is all about how much of the destination you want to experience. And as far as choosing from this list of the best car rentals in Queenstown goes, here’s a table to help you figure it out:

If you want reliability and a familiar experience, go with brands like Avis or Hertz. 

If budget matters more, Budget, and Apex are strong choices.

If you want to have a house on wheels while exploring the South Island, JUCY’s your best bet.

And if you prefer a more local, slightly personalized experience, Go Rentals is worth considering.

Pick a rental that fits your travel style, book it in advance (especially during peak season), and have the time of your life in Queenstown.

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Niyati Shinde

Freelance writer

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