Cheap car hire in Christchurch is readily available, making this charming city a splendid base for visiting New Zealand’s most scenic and diverse region. Whether you drive north to the mountains, south to the peninsula, or east to the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be treated to a scenic wonderland of adventure.

A great way to start your budget car rental is to take a short 20-minute drive south of Christchurch to the lovely portside town of Lyttleton. This charming town with historic clapboard and stone cottages is filled with art galleries, coffee houses, cafés, and eclectic boutiques. Meet the artisans that populate the town.

It’s easy to arrange a car hire in Christchurch so you can explore the vast ski areas of the Southern Alps where you’ll experience world class ski conditions. The scenic drive up to this area is unforgettable and you’ll want to have your camera handy at all times.

Nature lovers will want to drive to Kaikoura, New Zealand’s premiere ecotourism locale. Take the scenic route to the northeast of Christchurch that follows the coastline. This is where you’ll be able to see huge sperm whales as well as other species of marine wildlife that inhabit this rugged area.

If you just enjoy relaxing, then you should drive out to the wine country for a day of wine tasting. There are at least 20 vineyards in the region that offer tastings. This makes for an enjoyable day that can be topped off with a dunk in the hot springs located nearby in Hanmer.