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Christchurch Airport handled 6.25 million passengers in the 2024 financial year, a 10 per cent increase on the previous year, according to figures cited by New Zealand Rent-A-Car.
NZRAC says international passenger numbers rose 55 per cent year-on-year, while the airport recorded 15 per cent more inbound international seats over the four-month summer period. Overall capacity increased by 139,000 seats.
The growth in arrivals through the South Island’s main gateway is expected to support demand for transport services, including rental vehicles for independent travellers.
Touring gateway for the South Island
NZRAC says Christchurch is a key starting point for South Island itineraries covering destinations such as the West Coast, Queenstown and Dunedin, making vehicle availability an important part of visitor planning.
The company says many arriving passengers seek immediate transport to accommodation, business meetings or regional attractions, particularly where public transport options are limited.
Christchurch and wider Canterbury continue to benefit from the airport’s international recovery, with tourism and transport operators reporting stronger summer demand.
Self-drive demand remains strong
Canterbury’s appeal extends beyond the city, with visitors travelling to Banks Peninsula, Arthur’s Pass National Park and other regional destinations.
According to Stats NZ figures referenced by NZRAC, overseas visitor arrivals to New Zealand reached 3.51 million in 2025, up 6 per cent on the previous year.
NZRAC says a growing share of travellers are choosing self-drive itineraries across multiple South Island destinations, with families and budget-conscious visitors often comparing rental options for longer hires.
Fleet capacity responds
NZRAC says it has maintained a broad fleet at its Christchurch branch, ranging from compact city vehicles to larger SUVs and minibuses suited to group travel and alpine driving conditions.
The company says Christchurch Airport’s growing international connectivity and the region’s position as a touring base continue to underpin demand for both short-term rentals and extended road-trip hires.
