Ski & Snowboard Car Hire Across New Zealand
4WD rentals, snow chains and local advice - everything you need for a smooth winter road trip.
Winter-Ready Car Hire in New Zealand - 4WD & SUV Rentals for Ski Season
Planning a ski trip in New Zealand? NZ Rent A Car offers winter-ready car hire across the country, with vehicles suited for snowy conditions, alpine roads and long-distance travel. Choose from 4WDs, AWDs, station wagons and people movers - available at all major gateways to the ski fields.
We provide:
- Snow chains on request
- Free roadside assistance nationwide
- Unlimited kilometres for longer journeys between regions
- No extra driver fees - ideal for group or family trips
Browse Vehicle Fleet
Ski Car Hire from Christchurch Airport - Gateway to Mt Hutt & Tekapo
Christchurch is an ideal launch point for the South Island ski season. Our Christchurch branch offers free shuttle pick-up and a full range of vehicles equipped for winter driving.
Best for:
- Accessing Mt Hutt, Porters Pass, Tekapo and Ohau
- One-way trips to Queenstown, Dunedin or the West Coast
- Travellers flying into Christchurch for ski holidays
Tip: Add snow chains to your booking for safer travel on alpine routes like SH73 and SH8.
Queenstown Ski Car Rental - 4WDs for Coronet Peak & The Remarkables
Our Queenstown branch is just 2 km from the airport and fully equipped for ski season. Whether you're heading to Coronet Peak, The Remarkables or across the Crown Range to Cardrona, we’ve got vehicles and add-ons ready
Why choose NZ Rent A Car Queenstown?
- Wide selection of 4WD and AWD vehicles for winter conditions
- Snow chains available
- After-hours pick-up and return available
Car Hire for Wanaka & Cardrona - 4WD Rentals with Snow Chains
Skiing in Cardrona or staying in Wanaka? We offer car hire options for Wanaka ski trips via our Queenstown and Dunedin branches, with flexible pick-up and drop-off locations.
Why it matters:
- The Crown Range Road often requires snow chains
- We provide 4WD vehicles suitable for Cardrona and alpine travel
- Accessories are fitted or demonstrated before you depart
Snow Chains & No Extra Driver Fees - All the Add-Ons You Need
Our ski-season vehicles are available with everything you need for a comfortable and compliant winter trip:
- Snow chains available at all relevant branches
- No charge for additional drivers - share the driving safely
- Add these extras when booking, or contact your branch to customise your vehicle setup.
One-Way & Long-Term Winter Car Rentals Across New Zealand
Want to collect your vehicle in Christchurch and return it in Queenstown? Need a car for the full school holidays?
We offer:
- Flexible one-way rental options between all major branches
- Competitive long-term hire rates for week-long or extended ski trips
- Convenient locations including Auckland, Picton, Greymouth and Dunedin
Winter Driving Tips & Snow Chain Requirements
Driving in New Zealand during winter can be challenging. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Snow chains may be required on certain roads, including the Crown Range and Arthur’s Pass
- A 4WD or AWD vehicle is recommended for alpine driving
- Always carry warm gear, a torch, and a map - some areas have no mobile reception
- Check NZTA road updates before you travel each day
Our team can provide practical driving advice and snow chain demonstrations to help you stay safe.
Ski Season Car Hire FAQs: Insurance, Roadside Assistance & Pick-Ups
Do I need snow chains with my rental car?
Yes - especially in Queenstown, Wanaka and alpine regions. Snow chains are included or optional depending on the branch.
Can I collect my car after hours?
Yes. Both our Queenstown and Christchurch branches offer after-hours pick-up and drop-off. Just let us know in advance.
Is ski season car hire covered by standard insurance?
Yes - but off-road use is not covered. Free roadside assistance is included with all rentals.
Can I return my vehicle to a different location?
Absolutely. One-way rentals are available between all NZ Rent A Car locations.
Book Your Winter Car Hire Today
Reserve your vehicle now for a smooth, snow-ready trip across New Zealand. NZ Rent A Car offers trusted local service, winter-ready vehicles and the flexibility to explore the mountains your way.
