Getting around New Zealand

What are you looking for?

New Zealand offers independent travellers a perfect combination of dramatic landscapes, lush wilderness, accessible adventure, engaging locals, beautifully designed accommodation and great local food & wine.

It is the sort of country where you can pull off the highway and explore down a forested trail to safely enjoy a gloriously deserted beach. Make sure you take the time to explore and enjoy, allowing 2-4 nights at your accommodations so you really get to know the region and do some of the amazing activities on offer. Don’t underestimate the driving time between towns and destinations. The route many look short but you will be travelling along wild coastlines and through high mountain passes, and you will want time to stop on the way. The links below provide advice for getting around New Zealand. For an overview of North and South Island destinations see Regions.

Self-Drive Holidays

Car Hire

We recommend Budget Rental Cars.  Ask about free one-way rentals for 3+ day hires and a continuous rental period incorporating internal flights and ferries. Rental cars can be collected and returned to most New Zealand airports (but check). In winter, request that your vehicle is “winterised” and carries chains if you plan to drive to the ski resorts. 

Driving Times: Our interactive map allows you to map your itinerary around New Zealand. Look up our regional pages for driving times or check directions between your destinations on Google Maps or Bing.  Tourism New Zealand also has a useful driving time calculator.

Harley Davidson Rental

Harley Davidson Rental & Tours starting in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and the Coromandel bike rental or complete itineraries with all your accommodations booked ahead.

New Zealand Road Code

Study the New Zealand road rules and test your knowledge before you set off.  New Zealand Road Code Test.

Trains

There are commuter train services running south of Auckland and north of Wellington. The Great Journeys of New Zealand has at its heart three scenic train journeys each has its own distinctive flavour but all embody the same unique and authentic kiwi character.          

  • TranzAlpine – A journey over the majestic Alps of New Zealand between Christchurch and Greymouth.
  • Coastal Pacific – A journey along the edge of the world between Picton and Christchurch.
  • Northern Explorer – A journey through the heart of the North Island between Auckland and Wellington.

Ferries

Interislander operate ferries between Wellington and Picton. The journey time is about 3.5 hours. Note that many hire car companies will require you to change vehicle and check your luggage during the voyage.

Other useful ferries include Fullers passenger ferry from Auckland waterfront to Waiheke and the car ferry operated by Sealink from Auckland to Waiheke Island.

Transfers, Chauffeured Touring & Private Tours

Chauffeurs & Guides

We work with a number of drivers / guides who can accompany you for all or part of your itinerary. They can arrange all your accommodation and activities to meet your specific budget and interests. Kiwi Dundee & Wildsouth Discoveries offer a Companion Guiding service for all of the BoutiqueTravl.nz Itineraries

Transfers and Private & Small Group Tours

After the long international flight, you may want to start your New Zealand vacation with a driver and guide for a few days or a one-way transfer before hiring a car. Coromandel-based Kiwi Dundee offer private special interest nature tours throughout North Island. Christchurch based Canterbury Trails and Wildsouth Discovery offer private and small group tours and one-way transfers throughout South Island and private special interest nature tours around South Island. Most accommodations will know a local companies which offer transfers and private day tours in their area.

Airlines

International Flights to New Zealand

You are likely to arrive into New Zealand at one of the two main international hubs, Auckland Airport in the North Island or Christchurch Airport in the South Island. There are also useful direct flights from Australia to Queenstown and a few regional airports. On arrival most people either fly on to their chosen destination or collect their hire car transport. See the airport links listed above for rental car services. Flights between regional airports can save a lot of time, especially between the two islands.

Air New Zealand is New Zealand’s award winning flagship airline and offers the most connections between international and local flights. The following airlines also fly into New Zealand:

Qantas and Jetstar
Virgin Australia and Virgin Atlantic
Cathay Pacific
Emirates
Singapore Airlines
China Southern
Fiji Airways
Air Canada
LAN
Air Tahiti Nui
Lufthansa
Etihad
American Airlines
British Airways
Austrian Airways
Thai Airways

Things to Do

Northland - Boutique Travel NZ

Activities & Tours

With friendly locals, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, New Zealand promises not just a vacation, but an unforgettable experience. Witness the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps, the crystalline waters of the Abel Tasman National Park and much more.

Places to Stay

Fyffe Lodge - Boutique Travel NZ

Accommodation

Choose from accommodation in all New Zealand’s main destinations, from the stunning Bay of Islands to the very south, Stewart Island. Boutique Travel NZ lodges are hosted by dedicated owners who will ensure you enjoy your stay.

Discover by Regions

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Regions

Experience vibrant cities, geothermal wonders, and lush landscapes in New Zealand’s North Island, or majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and untamed wilderness in the South Island. Every corner invites you to explore, discover, and fall in love with the magic of New Zealand.