Christchurch car hire

[cottonfoo]

Hi all,

I'm in the middle of planning a trip to NZ again, and I need a car from Christchurch airport. I like to try out cars I wouldn't usually buy when on holiday, last time was a 1.6 Audi A3, which was horrible.

The time before I tried to get a V8 of some description but they didn't have any so I got a Diamante V6, which I was quite happy with actually.

This time however I'd really like a V8. Any recommendations for a hire company that has V8s in their fleet? I'd ideally pick one up from the airport. Most companies seem to just have a list of potential cars that you may get, online. I'll be hiring from Jan 2nd - 15th if that makes any difference. I understand locals don't usually hire cars (I wouldn't have a clue here) but any info appreciated!

Cheers,
Steve.

[Esprit]

Most companies don't do V8s... the closest you'll get is a 6-cylinder Falcon/Commodore/Maxima etc.

Especially with fuel prices going the way they are, you'd be VERY lucky to find one with a V8 on the books. Look towards a specialist hire place I would, someone that hires sports cars and the like.

[Kylie]

Some of these look fun esp the convertibles, mind you a little chilly in the south island on a cold morning?
http://www.eurocarrental.co.nz/rentalcars.html

http://www.smartcars.co.nz/fleet.cfm
7 series BMW or Porsche Cayenne Turbo could be fun

http://www.hireaholden.co.nz/ V8 Wagon could be fun up the ski field roads!

[RobDickinson]

http://www.classiccarexperience.co.nz/

Dont know of anyone that specificaly does car hire but depending on how long your here buying a budget old holden v8 cheap has to be an option.

[cottonfoo]

Cheers all, some good info. I'd tempted to buy one but I'm only down south for 14 days, it would also be too tempting to have it shipped home

[Whitey]

I always use Hertz and always get a 6 cylinder 4.0 Fairmont. They seem to have V8's in the parking lots but they must be special requests. Avis I think use the Commodores.

Must make a special request next time.