Car rental at Blenheim Airport

Most of the providers have onsite offices and are easy to reach from the International Arrivals Hall. We recommend making your reservation in advance to better secure a vehicle of your choice. This also simplifies the process when you arrive at the car hire centre. It may be advantageous to maintain an account with your preferred provider, especially if you’re a frequent traveller.

Being familiar with the local road rules will help you navigate your way from Blenheim Airport to the town centre and safely enjoy your adventures around the northern coast of South Island. Driving is performed on the left-hand side, seatbelts are required by all occupants and only hands-free devices are allowed while driving. Cameras are in wide use in Blenheim, so observe the following speed limits unless otherwise indicated: in populated areas, it’s 50 km/h; along rural roads, 100 km/h; and on highways, up to 110 km/h. Strict rules also apply for driving under the influence, so have a designated driver or take a taxi just to be safe.

To obtain a Blenheim Airport car hire, you need to be at least 21 years old and have held your licence for at least one year. Be advised that many of the major providers apply surcharges to drivers under the age of 25, and most impose a limit of 70 years. In addition to your passport and ID, there are other essentials needed for car hire at Blenheim Airport. These include an unexpired driver’s licence and major credit or bank debit card, whose credentials match the ID presented. We recommend that all non-New Zealand citizens also have an International Driving Permit, which is often requested by the major providers at the airport.

Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Blenheim airport to off-airport locations include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty.