Oamaru Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore Oamaru with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* 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 rental in and around Oamaru

Renting a car in Oamaru provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences, scenic views, or romantic outings. Explore the Oamaru Harbour for a relaxing beach day or visit Steampunk HQ and the North Otago Museum for cultural insights without the constraints of public transport.

A car enables you to discover nearby destinations such as Kakanui, located 11 km away, where you can enjoy the Victorian Heritage Precinct and Bushy Beach. Awamoa is just 5 km from Oamaru and features similar attractions, including beautiful gardens. For those interested in local culture, Oamaru North is home to notable sites like Steampunk HQ and Janet Frame House. Overall, having a rental car allows you to make the most of your trip, whether you are travelling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, ensuring a comfortable and personalised experience in and around Oamaru.

Where to stay in and around Oamaru

  • Kakanui: Located 11 km from Oamaru, Kakanui is ideal for those seeking an outdoor and eco-friendly experience. The area offers stunning scenery and is home to attractions such as Oamaru Harbour, perfect for a picturesque beach holiday. Visitors can also explore the Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct for a glimpse into the town's history. For a relaxing day, Bushy Beach is a must-visit destination for its natural beauty.
  • Oamaru North: Situated around Oamaru, Oamaru North is renowned for its romantic outdoor experiences. Adventure seekers can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting Steampunk HQ and the North Otago Museum, both excellent options for history and culture enthusiasts. The Janet Frame House adds a historic touch, making it a perfect area for leisurely exploration while enjoying the scenic lakes and water features nearby.
  • Awamoa: Awamoa, located 5 km from Oamaru, offers a delightful mix of outdoor and romantic experiences. With a shopping area nearby, travellers can enjoy leisurely afternoons at Oamaru Gardens, an urban park perfect for families and those seeking relaxation. The beautiful Oamaru Harbour and Oamaru Victorian Heritage Precinct are also within reach, providing scenic spots for visitors to unwind and appreciate the local landscape.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and specific features you need. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre and park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance 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—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This policy is usually the most advantageous. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this might be worthwhile for the added convenience it offers.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avert unnecessary expenses and provides you with peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Information on Car Rentals

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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Oamaru?
Daily rental prices were as low as within the past seven days. With rates like this, zipping around the streets of Oamaru in your own set of wheels is an affordable way to see the sights.
What happens if I need to cancel my Oamaru car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours before the collection time, most prepaid rentals qualify for a total refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to understand your cancellation policy. Read through your booking for the finer details or head to our Customer Service Portal to find out more.
What types of cars can I rent in Oamaru?
Mini, intermediate, full-size, premium ... The choice is yours! However, compact models are the top pick in Oamaru. If you're searching for something inexpensive and small, but not too small, this category of rental vehicle is a wise choice. Driving around traffic-filled streets will be a cinch in one of these. Compact cars are slightly more spacious compared to economy models and are suited to couples and families on a budget.
Where can I go on a road trip from Oamaru?
There's lots on offer in Oamaru, but head further afield and you'll find more sightseeing magic. Organise a set of wheels and you can explore the greater area at your own pace. Add these fantastic destinations to your list:
  • You'll find Larnach Castle and many other interesting attractions in Dunedin. From Oamaru, it's approximately 97 kilometres away.
  • Why not check out everything on offer in Ashburton too? Popular attractions to see here include Ashburton Domain. Ashburton is about 145 kilometres from Oamaru.
  • Lyttelton Harbour is around 209 kilometres from Oamaru and is one of the region's most breathtaking nature spots. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Oamaru with Expedia?
Whatever kind of wheels you're searching for, Expedia will help you track down the best deal. Simply compare offers from leading rental providers and book the option that's perfect for you. Love to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Oamaru car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Oamaru?
You'll need to be 21 and over to take the wheel of a rental car in Oamaru. Bear in mind that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car classes, such as compact, economy and medium size. Higher age limits usually apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Most suppliers will also charge a young renter fee. Look up the rules before clicking the book button and factor any extra fees into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Oamaru?
Generally, all that's required is a current driver's licence and a credit card in the same name when picking up your car. Proof of coverage may also be needed if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance plan. These requirements may differ between rental providers, so it's wise to read the fine print.
What side of the road do you drive on in Oamaru?
If you're renting a car in Oamaru or planning a road trip in greater New Zealand, you'll be driving on the left side of the road. Also, the driver's seat and some controls will be on a different side to what you're accustomed to in the U.S. This may take a while to get the hang of, so take things slow at the start.
What is the cheapest car rental in Oamaru?
With prices starting from as low as and per day in Oamaru within the past seven days, you'll be speeding off with your own incredible deal before long. 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 rent a car for a month or longer in Oamaru?
Expedia makes it a cinch to score an affordable long-term car rental in Oamaru. Simply head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip preferences and compare the offers.
Where can I find an Oamaru car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look up the age policy of the Oamaru rental providers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years of age, some companies will charge additional costs. It's handy to know this before arriving at the desk so you can have the funds ready. Each rental car company has its own policies for young drivers, so be sure to do your research.

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