Car Rental Wānaka

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Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car from Queenstown Intl. Airport (ZQN)?
You can, and there's plenty of choice. After you've disembarked and grabbed your bags, just walk to the rental car centre in the Terminal building, a three minute walk away. Here you can choose from reliable companies like Ace, JUCY and Hertz. If you want some more options, see what's on offer with Thrifty and Avis.
What happens if I need to cancel my Wanaka car reservation?
We appreciate that having a bit of wiggle room is important. That's why the majority of reservations offer a complete refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours before collecting the car. It's a good idea to check the cancellation policy though because there are some exemptions. If the information isn't there, head to our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in Wanaka?
Not too small yet not too big, compact cars are the top pick for many rental customers in Wanaka. Featuring excellent mileage and easy handling and parking, they're perfect for travelling around the city. A compact is slightly roomier than an economy vehicle, so you can hit the road in a bit more comfort and style. Want something bigger? Check out our standard, intermediate and full-size options.
Where can I go on a road trip from Wanaka?
There's heaps to do in Wanaka, but venture further afield and you'll find more sightseeing magic. Rent a set of wheels and you can wander around the surrounding region at your own pace. Add these awesome destinations to your list:

  • Make your way to Dunedin for a fun-filled sightseeing adventure. Approximately 177 kilometres from Wanaka, it's home to many amazing sights, including Larnach Castle.
  • Why not check out the best of Harington Point too? Unmissable sights in this happening city include Penguin Place. Harington Point is roughly 177 kilometres from Wanaka.
  • Find your way to Lyttelton Harbour to reconnect with nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just sit and unwind. From Wanaka, it's 306 kilometres away.

Why should I rent a Wānaka car with Expedia?
You'll pick up an amazing deal on your set of wheels with Expedia. Compact or full-size, you're sure to find your dream ride from one of the rental companies in Wānaka. Our free travel rewards programme, One Key™, will help you get the most bang for your travel buck because our members always get our best prices. And if you'd like to save more, combine your bookings into a holiday package. Add flights or hotels (or both) to your rental car reservation and get access to terrific discounts!
How do I find the best car rental deals in Wanaka with Expedia?
Whatever sort of ride you're looking for, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Just compare the offers from leading rental suppliers and pick the option that's perfect for you. Want to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Wanaka car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Wanaka?
Rental vehicle rules in Wanaka require drivers to be 21 and over. Are you a younger driver? Surcharges and restrictions may apply. Rental companies impose what is known as a young driver surcharge, which is an extra fee to the car rental cost. Restrictions usually apply to the classes of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may differ between providers, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Wanaka?
You'll need to present your driver's licence and a credit card in your name when you get to the rental counter. Prior to pickup, check with your selected company whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of auto insurance.
What side of the road do you drive on in Wanaka?
Unlike the United States, people in Wanaka drive on the left-hand side of the road. Having the driver's seat and some controls on the opposite side can also take a bit of getting used to. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the vehicle and its quirks before embarking on your journey.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Wanaka?
Whether you plan to stop in Wanaka or journey beyond, it's easy to reserve a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll help you find fantastic long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find a Wanaka car rental if I am younger than 25?
This will depend on the car rental companies that are found in Wanaka. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found an outlet that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, bear in mind that additional fees may apply. Do some research into any extra charges before booking your rental.