Christchurch, or Otautahi as it’s known in the Maori language, is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and one of the best destinations for travelers in New Zealand. The city is filled with stunning architectural works covered in world famous street art, all surrounded by beautiful natural forests. There are endless things to do in Christchurch, and the best way to explore the city is by riding around on a rented motorcycle.
The city of Christchurch suffered a massive earthquake in 2011 that devastated the city and destroyed many of its buildings. Since then, though, the city has come back full-force, and the new buildings that have sprung up from the rubble are vibrant and captivating. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you’ll probably end up flying into Christchurch anyway, so why not spend a few days in one of the most interesting cities in the country?
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a motorcycle in Christchurch. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a scooter. This guide includes:
- The price of motorcycle hire
- Where to rent a motorcycle in Christchurch
- Whether you need an international driving permit to drive a hire a motorcycle in New Zealand
- If roads in New Zealand are dangerous
- A road trip itinerary from Christchurch to Milford Sound
What Is the Price of Motorcycle Hire in New Zealand?
Motorcycle hire prices in Christchurch are higher than many other parts of the world. If you want to hire a motorcycle, you’re probably going to have to pay at least €95 per day. That will get you a proper motorcycle like a Suzuki V-Strom 650. More powerful motorcycles are available for rent at higher prices as well.
If you want a set of wheels on the cheaper end, you can probably find a motor scooter for under €30 per day.
Where Can You Find Motorcycle Rental in Christchurch?
If you plan on flying into Christchurch International Airport, you can book motorbike hire online and have a company deliver your motorcycle directly to the airport. If you want to rent a motorbike in the city instead, there are plenty of rental shops in the Sydenham neighborhood.
Motorcycle tours are also a very popular activity in Christchurch, so you can walk around Sydenham and compare tour prices, or look at different motorbike tours online. Tour prices will vary based on the company your tour with and the tour route.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Drive a Motorcycle in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, foreigners are required to carry a valid copy of their driver’s license from their home country as well as an international driving permit while operating a motor vehicle, including a motorcycle.
To obtain an international driving permit, you can apply here. There is a $20 application fee and the permit usually takes under two weeks to arrive in the mail. Once you have your permit, it’s valid for up to 12 months.
Is Driving in New Zealand Dangerous?
First of all, they drive on the left side of the road in New Zealand, which can take some adjusting for drivers from the United States.
Most of the roads in New Zealand are pretty well maintained, especially in the cities. However, country roads are often narrow, windy, and hilly due to New Zealand’s rugged terrain. Additionally, most of the roads outside of the cities are one lane in each direction. When driving outside of the cities, it’s best to drive slowly and cautiously.
Road Trip from Christchurch to Milford Sound
Now that you know all of the necessary information for hiring a motorcycle in Christchurch, you can drive your rental motorcycle from Christchurch to Milford Sound and see some of the most wonderful parts of New Zealand along the way. The entire trip would take a little over 9 hours if you did it in one shot, but here are some suggestions for stops along the way:
Christchurch
Don’t leave the city of Christchurch without doing some exploring first. The city is full of interesting cultural exhibitions and a phenomenal craft beer scene. For a great bite to eat, take a ride over to Little High Eatery. They offer a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Venezuelan to American barbeque, and all of it’s delicious.
If you want to hop off the motorcycle and onto a bicycle, take a stop at Christchurch Adventure Park. They have a bunch of incredible mountain biking trails and some of the best ziplining in all of New Zealand.
Dunedin
Drive two hours south along the coast to Dunedin, one of the most interesting regions of New Zealand. Park your bike and take a ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway. You can enjoy breathtaking views with the windows open and the breeze on your face.
Next, take a ride over to the Otago Peninsula and watch the endangered yellow-eyed penguins running along the beach. You can even take a dip in the ocean and watch the penguins from the water!
Catlins
If you want to get a look at one of the most naturally beautiful places on Earth, drive two hours further south from Dunedin to the Catlins. While you’re there, you absolutely have to check out Purakaunui Falls, a magnificent three-tiered waterfall that’s surrounded by lush plantlife.
You can also drive up to Nugget Point, an awe-inspiring natural landmark, and take a tour of the lighthouse at the top of the cliff.
Fiordland National Park
It would be a shame to go to New Zealand and not experience Fiordland National Park, especially if you’re traveling by motorcycle. Milford Road is one of the most amazing roads in the world, and it leads to one of the most amazing places in the world.
At the end of Milford Road, you can park your motorbike and hike Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track, which is famous for its beautiful beach and thick forest. At the end of the track you’ll come upon Milford Sound and its massive fiords.
Experience New Zealand by Motorcycle
If you plan on taking a trip to the South Island of New Zealand, the best way to make the most of your vacation is by hiring a motorcycle. You’ll have the freedom to cruise through cities like Christchurch and Queenstown, and take in the beautiful views as you journey down the countryside.
Do you still have questions about motorcycle rentals in Christchurch? No worries, you can always contact us by phone, email, or our website's live chat.
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