Car Rentals in South Island
Save up to 70% on car rentals in South Island. TopTours partners with Discover Cars so you get clear prices, no hidden fees, and free cancellation. Compare deals from 1,000+ companies and find the perfect rental for your trip.
Rated Excellent · 252,000+ reviews · 1,000+ brands · Award-winning service
Cars you might rent in South Island
Whether you need an economy car, SUV, convertible, or minivan—compare South Island car rental deals for every vehicle type. Discover Cars shows you all options in one place so you can book the right car at the best price.
Explore South Island by car
Rent a car and discover South Island's top sights at your own pace—from beaches and parks to historic towns and scenic lookouts.
- Marvel at Milford Sound's sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls, easily accessible for unforgettable boat cruises in South Island.
- Hike the iconic Routeburn Track for breathtaking alpine vistas and diverse South Island scenery.
- Take a scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier for a unique perspective of this icy wonder.
- Visit the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, offering a glimpse into the region's pioneering past.
- Kayak through the crystal-clear waters of Kaiteriteri Beach, surrounded by golden sands and lush native bush.
- Seek out the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki for a fascinating geological spectacle on the West Coast.
We compare car rental prices, you save
Discover Cars is a leader in online car rental bookings. They compare deals from 1,000+ companies so you can choose the best option for your trip to South Island. Many sites hide fees—Discover Cars includes mandatory fees, taxes, and extras in the quoted price, so there are no surprises at the rental desk.
TopTours partners with Discover Cars to help you find the perfect rental. Because they negotiate with car rental companies in bulk, they often secure lower prices for you.
Award-winning service
- · World Travel Tech Awards – World's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025
- · Magellan Awards Gold Winner 2025
- · FT 1000: Europe's Fastest Growing Companies – Top 300 (2025)
How to find a great deal
- Book early — Prices often rise closer to your trip. You can usually change or cancel for free up to 48 hours before pickup.
- Check reviews — See what previous renters say. A supplier score of 8 or higher is a good sign.
- Mind the deposit — You’ll leave a deposit at pickup. Check rental conditions so you have enough credit.
- Fuel & mileage — Know what’s included to avoid extra fees.
What you need to pick up the car
Driver's license
A valid license in the name of the main driver.
Identification
A passport or other ID, especially when renting abroad.
Credit card
In the main driver’s name, with enough funds for the rental and deposit.
Voucher
A printed or e-voucher from your booking confirmation.