We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Timaru. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Rental in Timaru in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Timaru and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Timaru and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Timaru so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Timaru?

Renting a car in Timaru offers the flexibility to explore the diverse attractions of the region at your own pace. From the scenic coastline of Caroline Bay to the historic sites and art galleries, having your own vehicle allows you to conveniently visit these locations without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Additionally, Timaru serves as a gateway to the Central South Island's majestic mountains, serene lakes, and winding rivers. With a rental car, you can embark on day trips to nearby destinations such as the Mackenzie Country, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and the picturesque town of Geraldine, enhancing your travel experience.

Car rental tips for Timaru

  • Timaru does not have a major airport, so consider arranging your car rental in advance with local agencies in the town center to ensure availability upon arrival.
  • Driving in New Zealand is on the left-hand side of the road; familiarize yourself with local road rules and signage before setting out to ensure a safe journey.
  • If planning to visit rural or mountainous areas, be prepared for narrow, winding roads and variable weather conditions; ensure your rental vehicle is equipped for such terrains.
  • Fuel stations can be sparse in remote areas; plan your refueling stops accordingly to avoid running low on fuel during your travels.

FAQs about renting a car in Timaru

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is suitable for navigating Timaru's streets and nearby attractions. If planning trips to mountainous areas or rural regions, consider a vehicle with higher ground clearance for added comfort and safety.

What are the parking options?

Timaru offers ample parking options, including street parking and public car parks in the town center. Most attractions have dedicated parking areas, and parking is generally free or low-cost.

What's the speed limit?

In New Zealand, the maximum speed limits are 100 km/h (62 mph) on open roads and motorways, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas. Always adhere to posted speed limits and drive cautiously, especially on rural roads.

Popular attractions

  • Caroline Bay: A beautiful sandy beach located minutes from Timaru's main street, offering safe swimming, a large playground, mini golf, and a colony of Little Blue Penguins.
  • Aigantighe Art Gallery: The South Island's third-largest public art museum, featuring a collection of New Zealand, Pacific, Asian, and European artworks dating from the sixteenth century to the present.
  • South Canterbury Museum: Explores the area's natural history, Māori heritage, and European settlement, including exhibits on local inventor Richard Pearse's early aviation attempts.
  • Sacred Heart Basilica: A historic Catholic church designed by architect Francis Petre, notable for its Roman Renaissance style and prominent twin towers.
  • Timaru Botanic Gardens: Established in 1864, these gardens feature a notable collection of roses, native tree ferns, ornamental ponds, and an aviary.

More places to visit

  • Mackenzie Country: A region known for its stunning landscapes, including turquoise lakes and the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.
  • Geraldine: A charming town offering boutique shops, art galleries, and local crafts, making it a delightful day-trip destination.
  • Tekapo: Famous for its vibrant blue lake, the Church of the Good Shepherd, and stargazing opportunities in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Rental Brands in Timaru

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

9.83 / 10

AVIS Car Rental

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National Car Rental

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Alamo Car Rental

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SIXT Car Rental

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Enterprise Car Rental

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Budget Car Rental

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Hertz Car Rental

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Europcar Car Rental

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Keddy Car Rental

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Thrifty Car Rental

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Firefly Car Rental

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Timaru: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


*Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.