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Car Rental Queenstown Airport

Experience our award-winning car rental service.

Image taken from the top of the Skyline Gondola looking down over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu at dusk
White SUV parked by a mountain lake with two people enjoying the scenic view

More Reasons to GO

Easy pickup, unlimited kilometres and friendly local support.
Modern Hybrid and EV options.

Queenstown Airport information

Our Queenstown airport location is only a minute's walk from the arrivals terminal building. Finding us is easy, pick up your personal belongings, walk out of the terminal building and spot our bright pink sign!

Our award-winning service team will be waiting for you at the vehicle collection to hand you the keys for a New Zealand road trip or business trip. With a wide range of well-maintained vehicles, from spacious SUVs to 4x4 cars, you will be in comfort in New Zealand's adventure capital. Our Queenstown airport location is equipped with snow chains, ski racks, and car seats so you can effortlessly gear up for your winter adventures.

Affordable rental cars at Queenstown Airport

Gear up for savings from our Queenstown hire car deals at the airport terminal. With excellent rental car rates, the best car rental deals and relocation offers, you can roll out with a deal that won't break the bank.

Map showing the location of the GO Rentals Queenstown Airport branch

Car rental Queenstown returns

When it's time to hit the brakes on your Queenstown car rental, our top-notch return process makes it easy! Simply cruise back to Queenstown Airport ‘Rental Cars Return’ carpark, park up and hand your keys to our local Kiwi team.


Queenstown Airport after-hours pick-up

We think minimal paperwork is the way to go, which is why we have developed an online pre-check-in process on our website or GO App. Pick-ups have never been so easy!

We have an awesome option to pick up a vehicle at Queenstown airport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week too. How's that for award-winning service?

Once you have booked a rental car from our Queenstown branch, our team will send you all the instructions to arrange a contactless pick-up service after hours.

All after-hours pick-up and drop-off must be pre-arranged, and a mandatory online check-in will be required.


After-hours drop-off

We believe in relaxing and stress-free car rental services that work for you. Ease up on the pedal as our 24/7 after-hours drop-off service at Queenstown airport has you covered.

We will email you all the instructions to drop off your rental car keys at any hour on your drop-off date so you do not need to zoom back for our business hours.


One-way car hires

Queenstown is the perfect start for a one-way car hire adventure and our one-way hires have road trips built in mind. Whether you want to explore the full length of the South Island or you want to hop on the ferry with your hire car and traverse the North Island to Auckland, we can arrange a one-way rental car.

Just note that while we try our best to fulfil all your needs, we do have minimum hire periods in place. Additionally, one-way hires are dependent on the time of year and your direction of travel. Vehicle availability may be affected when cars are needed at other branches.


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Customer reviews of Queenstown Airport

GO Rentals Customer Quick Facts

  • Minimum Age: You must be 21 years old to cruise in a standard GO Rentals hire car and 25 to experience the Tesla Model Y hire car. Good news: we do not apply a young driver surcharge!

  • Maximum Age: There's no upper age limit to GO with us.

  • Licence Rule: All drivers need to be 21 or over (25 for EVs) and hold a full driver licence. We can't accept learner, restricted or provisional licences.

  • New Zealand Temporary Licence: Bring photo ID as well as your temporary licence.

  • Foreign Licence Rule: Overseas full driver licences are accepted. If your licence isn't in English, you'll also need an English translation from an NZTA-approved translator.

  • Credit Card Requirement: A credit card is required for bookings with the Basic or Assured insurance options that require a bond deposit. A debit card is acceptable for the upgraded Peace of Mind or some Assured insurance options without a bond requirement.

  • Additional Drivers: Simply pop in to any of our branches and show us your driver's licence to add you onto a booking.

  • Family needs: You can hire baby capsules, child seats and booster seats for your little ones! Add them onto your booking quote and we will fit them ready for you to GO.

  • Documents for collection: You will need your valid driver licence and your debit or credit card in your name. Note that a credit card is required for bookings with the Basic or Assured insurance option that requires a bond deposit.

Why GO with us?

  • FREE basic car rental insurance

    Our basic insurance cover is included in the cost of every car hire with two upgraded insurance options available!

  • One-way car rentals

    We can organise one-way rentals with pick-up in one location and drop-off in another. Stick to your dream itinerary without worrying about circling back.

  • Offset carbon emissions

    In partnership with CarbonClick, you can choose to offset the carbon emission of your GO Rentals road trip.

  • 24hr AA roadside assistance

    All GO Rentals hire cars have access to the AA 24-hour mechanical breakdown assistance and our Tesla EVs have access to Tesla Roadside Assistance.

  • GO App

    With our GO Rentals App, you can book a car, check in faster and even control your Tesla car functions, right from the palm of your hand.

Total Road Care

A comprehensive $3 per day fee ensures your journey is simple and stress-free, we include the following services:

  • Roadside Assistance

    Complimentary callout service for ALL types of breakdowns.

  • Government Road Taxes

    Covers registration costs, safety inspections and road user charges.

  • Toll Road Freedom

    Enjoy free passage on all toll roads, we cover all costs including admin fees.

With Total Road Care, we handle all the essentials so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Terms and Conditions

GO Rentals App for a ridiculously simple pick-up and drop-off

Get your journey started as quickly as possible thanks to our speedy check-in. Manage your booking online or download our app to get through the check-in process and on the road faster.

Download App
Image of a GO Rentals branch showing its self-service kiosks
The GO Experience (1:58)

Queenstown Airport Car Rental Deals

You won't believe the mileage you can get on our hire car deals! Our regularly updated Queenstown airport car rental deals and sweet relocation deals can help you get on the road with extra cash for activities.

Rental Car Insurance Coverage

Your car rental rate and Total Road Care package with GO Rentals include 24-hour AA roadside assistance and complimentary callout service for ALL types of breakdowns.

Your stress-free car rental experience is a priority and our insurance coverage has peace of mind built right in.

GO Basic Insurance

Cost per day
$0 extra cost. Included as standard in our rental fees which varies depending on the rental vehicle.

Excess
Excess liability paid by the hirer in the event of an accident or damage covered under the rental terms. The excess amount for this package is dependent on the vehicle selected.

Bond
A pre-authorised amount to be paid at pick-up and returned to hirer if no damage is caused. The bond amount differs depending on the vehicle and hire period selected.

Credit or Debit
A credit card with the main hirer’s name is required for this insurance option.

Cover
Full comprehensive cover including third-party liability, windscreen and tyre damage. The hirer is liable for the excess amount only if conditions under the agreement are met.

GO Assured

Cost per day
A fee per day will be charged for the full duration of your hire period depending on the rental vehicle. This is an insurance premium and non-refundable.

Excess
Excess is reduced from the maximum depending on the vehicle selected. This is only to be paid by the hirer in the event of an accident or damage covered under the rental terms.

Bond
Starting from $0 depending on the rental vehicle. A pre-authorised amount will be paid at pick-up and returned to hirer if no damage is caused.

Credit or Debit
A credit card with the main hirer’s name is only required for rental vehicles with a bond deposit.

Cover
Full comprehensive cover including third-party liability, windscreen and tyre damage. The hirer is liable for the excess amount only if conditions under the agreement are met.

GO Peace of Mind

Cost per day
A cost per day depends on the rental vehicle selected. The upgrade fee is an insurance premium and non-refundable.

Excess
From $0 excess liability and calculated based on the rental vehicle chosen. The hirer may have to pay an excess in the event of an accident or damage covered under the rental terms.

Bond
A credit card with the main hirer’s name is only required for rental vehicles with a bond deposit.

Credit or Debit
A credit card or debit card can be used.

Cover
Full comprehensive cover including third-party liability, windscreen and tyre damage.

Electric Car Rental Insurance

Have peace of mind when you GO green! All of our coverage options cover our electric car fleet with the following amendments:

  • The Tesla dedicated roadside assistance must be utilised before our AA roadside assistance.

  • A security bond on GO Basic and GO Assured insurance options will be required for a Tesla booking and therefore needs a credit card upon pick-up.

For full details on the electric car insurance, please read our terms.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find special deals on car rental in Queenstown?

Looking for rental car deals in Queenstown? Make sure you have a look at our deals page, home to our latest discounts and offers to help you save on your next car hire.

Downloading the GO Rentals app is another great way of having everything you need at your fingertips.

For the latest car rental deals straight to your inbox, make sure you sign up for our newsletter and never miss a deal!


What is the walking distance from Queenstown Airport to your branch?

Our GO Rentals Queenstown Airport branch is conveniently located right on the airport property, by the main carpark entrance. Once you’ve landed, exit through the arrival door and follow the ‘Rental Cars’ sign outside. Follow the footpath across the road and look for a grey building on your right with our bright pink GO Rentals signage, which is approximately 50m away. All in all, the walk should take you less than one minute.


What are Queenstown branch hours and what is the after-hours process?

The Queenstown branch hours are always 8 am - 5 pm, Monday-Sunday.

If you need to pick up or drop off your vehicle outside these hours, there’s an after-hours service that will allow you to do so! Once you’ve confirmed your booking, we’ll email you instructions on how to pick up and drop off your car outside of our branch hours.

If you are running late, please contact the branch on +64 9 974 1598 during branch hours and they can advise you of the after-hours process.


How close to your trip should you rent a car?

It is best to plan ahead if you are renting a car for a trip. This means booking your chosen vehicle around 3-6 months in advance to guarantee an affordable price and the car you want the most. GO Rentals are happy to accommodate last-minute bookings if we have availability in our Queenstown branch. Our car rental deals are regularly updated to include current offers and relocation deals for quick bookings.


Do you offer one-way car hires from Queenstown Airport?

We sure do!
GO Rentals can arrange one-way car hires to and from all our locations, including Queenstown Airport. The only restrictions we have in place are:

  • Minimum hire periods

  • The time of the year

  • Damage caused by unauthorised additional drivers.

  • Certain directions of travel

  • Subject to a relocation fee

On occasion, we will make allowances if we need vehicles in other branches. Be sure to check with one of our branches to see if your one-way car hire is viable from Queenstown Airport.


Explore Queenstown with GO Rentals

A car rental in Queenstown should be your gateway to a South Island adventure. Zip through Queenstown's city centre or shift gears for a snow adventure in a mountain setting, Queenstown will be an unforgettable holiday. With four commercial snowfields and breathtaking Southern Alps, we couldn't think of a better place to hire a car and cruise. Trust us, we're not biased we promise!

  • Two skiers walking at sunset with snow-covered peaks

    The Treble Cone Ski Area

    With some of the largest skiable areas in the region, the Treble Cone ski area is a snow seekers haven. With stunning scenery and a diverse range of runs for all skill levels, the ski area here is one for everyone to enjoy! Add on our car rental accessories like snow chains and ski racks for extra ease.

  • Parasailing over a lake with mountain backdrop

    Lake Wakatipu

    When have you ever seen a distinctive Z-shaped lake? Jump into a rental car and check out the pristine Lake Wakatipu in all seasons. The crystal-clear water reflects the surrounding alpine mountains, making for a picturesque photo worthy of our Snap Happy photo competition. Thrill seeker? Well, you're in luck with a jet boating adventure!

  • Skiers on a snowy slope with mountain views

    Coronet Peak

    As the closest ski resort to Queenstown, it's never been easy to jump into an airport car rental and hit the slopes. Known for their well-maintained runs and excellent snow conditions, it's an awesome place for both ski and snowboarding enthusiasts.

  • Scenic cruise in Milford Sound with waterfalls and mountains

    Milford Sound

    Enjoy a 5-hour scenic drive in one of our reliable and comfortable modern vehicles. Navigate the winding roads as the jaw-dropping Milford Sound landscape comes into view. With dramatic cliffs, majestic waterfalls and the most incredible night sky, it is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders.

  • Bustling city center with shops and mountain views

    Queenstown City Centre

    Queenstown City Centre is a vibe, offering a lively mix of bustling cafes, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. The area is alive with street performers, festivals, and a dynamic social scene, making it a must-see for all visitors to New Zealand.

  • Person bungee jumping over a turquoise river

    Bungee Jumping

    When in the adventure capital of New Zealand, you may as well challenge yourself to a classic Kiwi experience, bungee jumping. Head to Kawarau Bridge to jump from the world's first commercial bungee jumping spot, complete with awe-inspiring views!

Trust Thousands of Snap Happy Customers

Our Snap Happy Photo Competition has customers revv’d up about our Queenstown Airport car hire in New Zealand! Submit a cool photo of your GO travel memory and be in with a chance to WIN up to $500 back from your booking.

  • Excited group posing at a ski resort with snowy slopes

    Kristen

    Renting a car for a few days while we were in Queenstown was the best decision!! We travelled with family from Northern Queensland that had never touched snow before. Finding snow in October was always going to be rare (especially this year!) but the snow Gods were on our side and we were able to touch, throw and slide in it at Coronet Peak. The RAV4 we hired was perfect to travel between Queenstown and Wanaka to really fully take in all the beautiful scenery. Thanks so much!

  • White Tesla parked at a scenic mountain viewpoint under cloudy skies

    Valerie

    It was our first time trying out a Tesla and it was an absolute treat! We sometimes found ourselves spending more time looking at the car than the view. Our Queenstown trip was an absolutely great time - Arrowtown, Coronet Peak, Cardona, Wanaka, and Queenstown itself. We'll be back.

  • Winding luge track overlooking a lake and mountains

    Robert

    We had a great time exploring Queenstown and Te Anau with our GO Rentals car - thanks for the RAV4 which was perfect for us. The scenery was amazing, for example, the mountains in this photo, and we had great fun with activities like the Queenstown Skyline gondola and luge run. We didn't take the hire car down the luge track - promise!

  • New Zealand flag waving in front of a mountain and lake

    Josh

    One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to! We drove from Queenstown to Te Anau to spend the night before driving on to Milford Sound. We spent 4 hours in the car that day and the drive to and from the sound was almost as beautiful as the sound itself. Made all the more enjoyable in our comfortable Toyota SUV, which did the whole journey from QT to Milford and back on a single tank of petrol. Can’t ask for much more!

Queenstown Airport Car Hire - Start Your Adventure

Pick up a car in Queenstown from one of New Zealand's largest independent car rental companies. We love this beautiful island and our award-winning local team have put together a road trip planner and NZ travel blog to help you love it too. Get on the road with a stress-free car rental and cruise this breathtaking island with our local tips!

With our range of modern rental vehicles, 24-hour roadside assistance and transparent rental car insurance options, your Queenstown car hire experience is our priority. Whether you need a weekend car rental or a long-term car rental, our Queenstown car rental team is waiting to say Kia Ora to you!

Get an instant quote and GO love every moment of your adventure.

GO all across NZ

We have ten car rental branches spread evenly throughout New Zealand, in the major destinations of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Nelson, Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill so that you’re never far from a GO rental car.