New Zealand - Transportation

New Zealand is 1,600 km long and 450 km wide at its widest part. Covering an area of approximately 270,500 sq km (all islands combined) it is roughly the size of Japan, the British Isles or California - large enough to contain a huge variety of scenic attractions, and small enough so you can get to see most of them.

Transport Categories 

Airport Shuttle

All of New Zealand's international airports and most domestic ones have shuttle services running from the airport to central business districts via the main hotels. At Auckland there is also a shuttle that runs between the international and domestic terminals.

These services are cheaper than taking a taxi, but do take longer. Allow plenty of time when booking a shuttle to the airport, or make sure the shuttle company is aware of your check-in time. There are also regular direct bus services between airports and Central Business Districts (CBD) that are even cheaper, but these do not set down at hotels.

Auckland Airport is 25km from the CBD, Wellington 8km and Christchurch 12km. Journey times depend on traffic conditions.

Air

New Zealand is well served by air transport, with all cities, major towns and resorts linked to the national network.

The main domestic airlines are Air New Zealand and Origin, with commuter airlines linking the smaller towns. Charter flights are easily arranged if you want to fly direct to a destination that isn't served by a commercial flight - provided there is an airfield.

The airport at Timaru is named Richard Pearse Airport, after the man who is thought by many to have made the world's first powered flight in a heavier-than-air, man-carrying aeroplane. Inconclusive evidence indicates this took place on 31 March 1902, nearly two years before Orville Wright's flight in the USA.

Cruise Ships

A number of international cruise liners call into the ports of South Pacific islands, including several of New Zealand's main cities.

Overland sectors are easily organised, as well as pre- and post-cruise itineraries.

Start your New Zealand holiday in style by cruising into one of our beautiful harbours on a luxury cruise liner.

Break up a relaxing South Pacific cruise with shore excursions that cover a wide range of attractions and activities.

Once you've seen the sights in New Zealand, join a cruise ship, and head off for the beautiful islands of Polynesia

Bus & Coach

Bus Travel

Daily scheduled bus passenger services are available throughout the country. InterCity Coachlines operates the largest network throughout both islands, and Newmans Coach Lines provide services in the North Island and on the major tourist routes in the South Island.

Most destinations have several departures daily. Advance booking is not usually necessary, but reservations are recommended.

Larger cities offer bus tours of the main sights or city centre, and mini-bus tours can be arranged for small groups. Multi-lingual guides are available.

Coach Travel

Coach tours offer a comfortable and relaxing way of seeing the country. A guide or your driver often provides a commentary, pointing out significant sights or relating stories from history or Maori legend. All accommodation, meals and baggage are taken care of, leaving you with plenty of time to get to know your fellow travellers and enjoy the sights.

New Zealand coaches are graded for quality. The top-of-the-range 5-star coaches are less than five years old and have the latest passenger comfort features. Budget companies catering specially for backpackers may have a lower star grading.

Cycling

With its mild climate, fresh air, good roads and varied landscape, New Zealand is an ideal country for cycling or mountain biking. However, that doesn’t mean you have to go through the hassle of bringing a bike into the country with you.

Many companies throughout New Zealand run guided cycle tours. Cycles and gear are usually provided, and tours can last from three days to three weeks. 

During these tours, you have the advantage of having your gear carried for you in the support vehicle, which you can also travel in if you need to take a break.

For those who wish to travel more independently, some cycle shops and bike-hire places have long-term rentals, often at very reasonable rates. If you intend cycle touring for a long time,

New Zealand has a buoyant second-hand bike market. You could also consider a buy-back scheme from a cycle shop - half the purchase price is refunded if the bike is returned in reasonable condition.

Ferries

A Ferry is the best way to travel between New Zealand's North and South Islands. The 83-kilometre journey between Wellington and Picton is regarded as one of the world's great scenic cruises.

Departing from Lambton Harbour in Wellington you pass the rugged southern coastline of the North Island. Between the two Islands lies Cook Strait, which offers a stunning view of the South Island's Kaikoura Ranges and often the opportunity to spot wildlife such as whales, dolphins and seabirds.

As you enter the majestic Marlborough Sounds, you are offered a breath-taking introduction to the South Island. The Sounds are a haven of tree-lined coves, inlets and crystal clear water. The journey ends at the picturesque township of Picton, which provides a base for exploring the many walks and vineyards which the Marlborough region is renowned for.

The fast ferry - The Lynx - will take you across Cook Strait in approximately two hours 15 minutes. If you have more time, you can relax and cruise on The Interislander on a journey lasting three hours.

The Lynx and The Interislander link with Tranz Scenic train services in Wellington and Picton, making it easier for you to book your travel.

Motorcycle

Freedom, fresh air, wide open roads. Enjoy the thrill of the machine and a sense of discovery as you venture through some of New Zealand's beautiful scenery on a motorcycle.

Guides are available to show you the best of two-wheeled motoring in New Zealand, or you can rent a bike and set your own pace and itinerary.

Tour packages - with or without a guide - are available from major cities. Like rental cars, one-way hire is available in some instances but restrictions may apply.

You will need to bring your full motorcycle licence or international driving permit with you. You'll find more information on licences and permits in the transport section.

Rail

New Zealand's rail journeys will take you on a series of spectacular sightseeing trips, all in the comfort of fast, modern trains. Light meals and drinks may be purchased onboard, and a commentary describes scenic highlights and historical spots en route.

Tranz Scenic operates eight long-distance train services in New Zealand, including:

The Overlander (Auckland to Wellington) takes you through the central North Island's majestic scenery of native forests, ravines, gorges and volcanic peaks

The TranzCoastal (Picton to Christchurch) runs along the South Island's east coast between snow-capped mountains and rugged coastline

The award-winning TranzAlpine (Christchurch to Greymouth) winds its way through spectacular gorges and river valleys before crossing the snow-capped Southern Alps

Tranz Scenic also offers discount travel passes.

Rental Cars

Rediscover the joy of motoring on New Zealand's uncongested, good quality roads.

International car rental firms such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and local companies hire a wide range of vehicles. Most firms have some great deals that can be pre-booked before leaving home. One-way hire between some company locations is available, though certain restrictions may apply.

The majority of rental firms require that you take out accident insurance with an insurance company nominated by them. You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country, or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Commonly the legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 25 years.