Car Rentals in Oamaru, NZL

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Top Rental Car Deals in Oamaru

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Oamaru, Otago, NZL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Oamaru, Otago, NZL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Oamaru, Otago, NZL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Oamaru, Otago, NZL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Oamaru car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Oamaru

Renting a car in Oamaru offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Oamaru Harbour, known for its picturesque scenery, or delve into the unique culture at Steampunk HQ. History enthusiasts will appreciate the North Otago Museum, all conveniently accessible without the constraints of public transport. Moreover, a rental car allows for effortless day trips to nearby destinations. Kakanui, just 11 km away, features both the Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct and Bushy Beach, while Awamoa, located 5 km from Oamaru, offers beautiful gardens and more heritage sites. Just 3 km away, Deborah invites you to explore the Janet Frame House and enjoy the serene Oamaru Gardens. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences, having a car makes it easy to manage your luggage and travel plans, ensuring a stress-free journey through this delightful region.

Where to stay around Oamaru

  • Kakanui: Located 11 km from Oamaru, Kakanui offers a delightful outdoor and eco-friendly experience. With its stunning beach, picturesque lake, and charming water features, it’s perfect for nature lovers. Key attractions include the scenic Oamaru Harbour, the historic Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct, and the beautiful Bushy Beach, making it a great spot for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
  • Awamoa: Just 5 km from Oamaru, Awamoa is ideal for a romantic getaway or an outdoor adventure. This suburb features a lovely shopping area and is close to several attractions, including the Oamaru Harbour and the enchanting Oamaru Gardens, which is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The proximity to the lake and beach enhances its appeal for a serene holiday experience.
  • Richmond: Situated 11 km from Oamaru, Richmond is known for its scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can explore the historic Riverstone Castle, delve into local culture at the North Otago Museum, or visit the Janet Frame House for a glimpse into the life of the famed author. The nearby lake and beach create a lovely backdrop for a peaceful stay, especially during the warmer months.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Oamaru

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may allow for full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is a requirement for renting a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
Our best deal of the day:
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From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Oamaru?
The daily price of car rental in Oamaru within the past seven days was as low as . With your own affordable ride, the attractions in and around this place are easily within your reach.
What happens if I need to cancel my Oamaru car reservation?
If you have to make changes to your itinerary, nearly all bookings are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations will need to be made at least six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time. Read through your hire agreement for any exemptions. Your confirmation will have more details, or head over to our Customer Service Portal for more info.
What types of cars can I rent in Oamaru?
Keep it simple with an economy, splash out on a premium ride or choose something in the middle, like a mid-size. But it's hard to go past a compact vehicle — the most commonly booked hire type in Oamaru. They're a joy to park and handle, fuel-efficient and a smart idea if you're cruising around busy cities. A step up from economy, you can expect a bit more comfort and room at a price that's still nice.
Where can I go on a road trip from Oamaru?
With your own vehicle, exploring the surrounding areas is a cinch. Oamaru is an obvious place to start, but there's plenty more to keep you on the move in the region. Pick up the keys to a rental, toss your luggage in the trunk and take a peek at these other awesome spots:
  • Roughly 60 miles from Oamaru, Dunedin is on the itinerary of many visitors. With top attractions such as Larnach Castle, there's no shortage of things to see and do here.
  • Another destination that's a hit with travellers is Ashburton, around 90 miles away. Ashburton Domain is just one of the many reasons why people love coming here.
  • After all that time behind the wheel, treat yourself to a dose of fresh air at New Brighton Beach. It's roughly 140 miles from Oamaru.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Oamaru with Expedia?
It's easy to score the best deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your preferred car type, select your dates and pick-up and drop-off locations, and compare offers from leading hire providers. Save even more when you combine your Oamaru car hire with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Oamaru?
You need to be at least 21. But there are a few age-related rules to bear in mind before you book your Oamaru wheels. If you're a younger driver, most hire providers will charge an additional fee and limit the kinds of cars you're able to hire. The surcharge, and which ages it applies to, varies between companies. Take a few moments to compare the requirements.
What do you need to hire a car in Oamaru?
While requirements may differ between car hire outlets, the essentials are a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out auto insurance with your rental provider. However, proof of your own coverage may be required.
What is the cheapest car hire in Oamaru?
The two cheapest daily rates offered in Oamaru within the past seven days were and . How's that for an awesome deal? These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Oamaru?
Whether you have plans to hang around Oamaru or journey beyond, it's easy to reserve a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip information and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll help you find excellent long-term car hire deals.
Where can I find an Oamaru hire car if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to check the age policy of the Oamaru hire suppliers you're considering. If you're under 25 years old, some will charge extra fees. It's good to know about this before collecting the vehicle so you can budget accordingly. Each rental car company has its own rules for young drivers, so be sure to do your research.

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