Any recommendations for inexpensive but reliable rental cars? I need an automatic and plan to pick up and return at Christchurch

We have used Apex multiple times and would happily recommend them.

APEX

Try Rental Cars NZ (www.rentalcarsnz.com) they have a Chch depot with free shuttle from airport. great pricing too.

oops, slightly wrong url = www.rentalcarnz.com

I also have used Apex. I also like Avis if you can find a discounted rate (use the NZ website for specials). And watch out for the cars with no enclosed trunk.

We will be renting from Ace in December. We got a really good rate from them.

I like to use fetchcarhirenewzealand.co.nz to search several different rental providers. Once I find a price I like I normally try and find the rental companies own website to see if they offer a better deal. I also read relevant reviews on rankers.co.nz

One hidden cost which only apply to same providers, more so for short term rentals is the bank fee on the bond. Its normally only around 2% but thats still $80 extra on a $4000 bond.

The driving times on that website are massively underestimated. For example Auckland to Wellington takes approx 8 hours in a car with minimal breaks and holdups, Christchurch to Picton takes approx 4 hours.

The times generated on Google maps are surprising accurate.

Oh gosh the drive times are bad aren't they! Some of those would get you speeding tickets. And Rotoruwa?

I have a feeling based on his other posts that LS13 has a financial incentive for posting that link. Will look into it and report to the mods.

In the meantime I think I would be careful with it.

I booked with Ace and saved a ton of money compared to the other options. Car was solid - no problems at all.

Apex are good - you get the car you book, which isn't always the case with others.