Go see the sights with a Timaru Airport car hire
Pick up a Timaru Airport car hire and get exploring this pretty little city on the coast of Canterbury in the South Island. Midway between Christchurch and Dunedin, Timaru offers lovely beachside attractions, a fantastic museum, a fabulous art gallery, fantastic dining opportunities, and so much more. Hit the road with a Timaru car rental and go see it all.
Picking up your car rental from Timaru Airport
Richard Pearse Airport is the main airport in South Canterbury, but it is a small enough facility that you can easily find your way around. The terminal has limited facilities and only offers flights to select cities. Collect the keys for your Timaru Airport car rental from the arrivals hall.
Getting around Timaru in your airport car hire
![Timaru is a port city in the southern Canterbury region of New Zealand.]()
Refer to these tips before driving your Timaru rental car.
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Timaru is 10.6 kilometres from the airport via State Highway 1. The hire car drive should take roughly 10 minutes.
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Gravel roads are still common in this region. Drive slowly, and keep an eye out for potholes and corrugated ruts.
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You may encounter inclement weather in this region. Allow greater distance on frosty and wet days, or adjust your travel plans.
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Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents in Canterbury. Turn on your Do Not Disturb function on your phone before hitting the road.
Hit the highlights in your Timaru car hire
Caroline Bay
This beachy area is popular for both everyday leisure activities and big events like the Caroline Bay Summer Carnival. Wander along the boardwalks, check out the botanic gardens, and refresh with a fantastic meal at one of the many fabulous restaurants.
South Canterbury Museum
Learn about the city’s natural history, Māori culture, European settlement, and more at this fantastic heritage museum.
Te Ana Ngāi Tahu Māori Rock Art Centre
There are approximately 250 ancient Maori Rock art sites within a half hour’s drive in your Timaru car hire, depicting everything from people, fish, birds, and the dragon-like taniwha. Here you can get an in-depth look at the meaning behind them and the heritage of the Ngāi Tahu.
Mt Dobson
If you’re visiting during the winter, head your rental cars Timaru Airport to the nearest ski field and get amongst the beauty of the Southern Alps. This is a great place to learn how to ski!
![Head your rental cars Timaru Airport to this famous life-size man sculpture.]()
Top tips for Timaru car rentals
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If you plan on exploring outside of the main city, or are heading on an extended road trip, prioritise safety and comfort when comparing rental cars in Timaru.
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The supply of rental cars in Timaru can be limited, so book early to secure the vehicle you want.
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Avis Car Rental at Timaru Airport is a favourite among customers in this location.
