GETTING AROUND
New Zealand offers a wide range of transport options. Much will depend on whether you are open to driving or not. Driving allows the most freedom and flexibility. However for those who do not wish to drive, there are plenty of options. We can combine various modes of travel across your itinerary to ensure you get to see and do everything of your list. We know the schedules, the pros and cons, the parts of the country where it might be best to take the train or hand off the car keys and let someone else do the driving. We'll choose the best mode of transport, or mix of modes to best fit your trip.
Plane
Daily flights are available between domestic airports. Jet aircraft are typically flown between the main centres of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. These centres are hubs to serve the smaller regional airports, of which there are many. It should be noted, smaller aircraft (ie: twin prop) are often used on these routes. Carry-on luggage is closely monitored on these flights.
Self Drive
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around in New Zealand is via road and enjoying some of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Self-drive a rental car on one of our recommended trips, take a coach or hire a private driver if you want to let someone else do the driving. Note: New Zealand drives on the opposite side of the road to the USA.
Train
Our great train trips travel through remote national parks, across spectacular volcanic landscapes, over braided river valleys and alpine passes and along rugged coastlines with steep mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Spectacular scenery you simply can't see from the road.
North Island
The Northern Explorer links Auckland and Wellington - 12 hr journey.
South Island
Coastal Pacific links Picton and Christchurch - 5hr 40 min journey
Tranz Alpine links Christchurch and Greymouth - 4 3/4 hr journey
Private Driver/Guide
Tour New Zealand in a quality vehicle with your own private driver/guide. Each day of your trip is tailored to your interests so you can stop when and wherever you wish. The vehicle is for your exclusive group, not shared with other passengers. Daily rates start from around USD$900 per day.
Private Transfers
Private transfers can be arranged for most points of your trip. Transfers can either be direct or include a day of sightseeing along the way. This can often be a good way to move around the country without having to drive. They can also be used for airport transfers.
Helicopters can also be used for sightseeing transfers and to move around New Zealand.
Ferry
Between the North & South Island
Several passenger and vehicle ferries offer services between the North (Wellington) and South (Picton) Island across the Cook Strait. The journey takes approx 3 ¼ hrs taking passengers, vehicles and cargo. Most rental car companies will have you return your rental car on one side and collect a new rental car on the other.
Other islands popular for visitors and serviced by regularly scheduled ferries include Waiheke Island, Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi, Great Barrier Island on the North Island and Stewart Island on the South Island.
Coach
A cost-effective alternative to air travel with daily scheduled passenger services available throughout the country and are of a good standard. Most offer large windows, onboard wi-fi & bathroom along with interesting commentary. A couple of considerations: you are at the mercy of their schedules and will have to transport your luggage to your accommodation at either end. Some services do drop to accommodations, others arrive/depart from a depot only.
Uber & Cab
Uber currently operates in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin. Cabs in New Zealand are plentiful and of a good standard.