Christchurch International Airport is situated seven miles northwest of the city. It is the second-largest airport in New Zealand, handling more than five million passengers a year. To reach the city centre, drive along Memorial Avenue. Drive time is around 20 minutes. With a population of over 300,000, Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island.
Renting a campervan is one of the best ways to explore New Zealand’s South Island, with its breathtaking landscapes and impressive variety of flora and fauna. Lots of self-drive campervan hire companies are represented at the airport. The minimum rental period for a self-contained van is normally five days. If travelling between the islands, you should make an advance booking in order to secure a discount.
Recommended campervan drives in Christchurch Airport
Fox Glacier:
this five-day round trip takes in much of the best of the South Island. The trip includes Arthur’s Pass and gold mining towns such as Greymouth before arriving at Fox Glacier. From lakeside Wanaka, you ascend to the stunning peaks and lakes of Aoraki Mt. Cook. Jackson’s Retreat West Coast Holiday Park and Glentanner Park Centre are two recommended campervan sites en route.
Akaroa:
this trip to the elegant French settlement of Akaroa features lots of history, gorgeous scenery and the chance for great hikes and harbour cruises. From Christchurch, take State Highway 75 via Lake Ellesmere and Lake Forsyth. North South Vacation Park is situated just five minutes’ drive from the airport. Okains Bay Camping Ground is located close to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula.
Blenheim:
this five-day loop will introduce you to some of the highlights of the northern region of the South Island. Highlights en route include hot springs, outdoor activities, vineyards and lots of chances to see whales, dolphins and marine birds. Kaikoura Peketa Beach Holiday Park offers spectacular ocean views while Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Motorhome Park – Mountain View is ideally located close to the area’s famous hot springs.
About the airport
Christchurch International Airport has one terminal that caters to both domestic and international flights. It is second to Auckland Airport in terms of passenger traffic, handling around 5.5 million travellers a year. Flights connect with Japan, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, as well as with Australian and domestic destinations.
There are three bus routes to the city. Taxis and shuttle companies can be found outside the terminals. Parking is available at the airport, while off-airport parking facilities are provided close by.