Maybe you’re the kind of traveler who plots every detail of your journey. Or perhaps you prefer to jump in your rental car and wander like a free spirit. Whatever gets your motor running, there are some key facts about Canterbury that’ll help get you on your way. Read up on New Zealand, because that’s where you’ll need to head to kick off your adventure.

If you’re chasing some unforgettable pit stops on your Canterbury vacation, we’re here to help. Here are several attractions you’ll really want to punch into your GPS. Pile into the car and drive toward Mona Vale. You’ll find this showstopper 1 mile from the notable city of Christchurch. After that, top up the gas tank and make a beeline for Lyttelton Harbour. This terrific sight is 0.4 miles from Lyttelton and just waiting to be checked off your list.

Canterbury is an amazing place to take to the open road in your own rental vehicle. Turn up the radio and enjoy the freedom of visiting all the region’s gems dotted between each of its most popular tourist destinations. Get out and explore some (or all) of this place’s most outstanding cities:

• Christchurch (population of 363,900)
• Ashburton (population of 30,100)
• Timaru (population of 28,000)
• Kaiapoi (population of 10,200)

Below you’ll find our top recommendations if you want to grab the best deal on a rental car:

• Our terrific filter tool is about to become your new BFF. Scan the cheapest deals from all of the top companies as quick as a flash;
• Register for our Price Drop Alert service and be in the know when prices fall for your location;
• Check both airport and non-airport office locations to be sure you’re scoring the cheapest deal in town;
• If you have room to move in your schedule, change your dates to find cheaper prices on different days of the week;
• Nobody likes being hit with a late fee. Avoid having to pay for another day by ensuring your pickup and drop-off times are similar;
• Keep more cash in your back pocket. You’ll grab some of the best deals when you prepay your vehicle;
• It’s best to make a reservation as soon as your dates are finalized. You’d hate to miss out because you left it too late!

From shingle seashores to sandy shores and snowfields, Canterbury offers some dazzling scenery. Why not hit the highway and enjoy the best of them? Leave the city behind and organize some exciting day trips. A full-size SUV is ideal for those longer rides. Designed to handle all types of terrain, these bigger vehicles make it a cinch to get off the beaten path.

There’s plenty of choice when it comes to renting a car in Canterbury. From swish SUVs with loads of space for luggage to zippy little compacts that make parking a breeze, you’ll find it all here. Choosing your perfect match depends on how much you want to spend and what you intend to do. Some road trips are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas other adventures don’t need anything more than an engine and four wheels. Which car will you be sliding behind the wheel of this trip?

In Canterbury, motorists stick to the left side of the road. This means the driver’s seat is on the right-hand side. If you’ve rented a ride with a manual transmission, you’ll need to get used to shifting gears with your left hand.

Normally, one of two things will happen. Your car rental company may charge the fined amount to your credit card. This is the more common practice. On the other hand, it may forward your contact information to the relevant local agency so the fine is sent to you directly.