How does it all work?
New Zealand constitutes 3 main islands; the North and South Island plus Stewart Island. The main passenger and vehicle traffic is between the North and South Island. There are two main ferry companies operating – Interislander (run by Kiwi Rail NZ) and Blueridge Ferries (a private company). Ferry services operate 4-8 times per day throughout the season. The Interislander has a larger capacity for vehicle loads, while the Blueridge ferry has less. The main ferry terminals are in Wellington and Picton harbours.
Passenger Travel only – what is the check-in process?
With most major rental car companies (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Thrifty) you’ll leave your vehicle at one ferry terminal and travel on the vessel as a passenger. You then pick-up another rental car on the other side. Logistically this makes sense and also addresses insurance policy issues…
…the key advantage is that you won’t have a pay to transport the vehicle across – only your passenger ticket. If you have to exchange rental cars between the North and South Island, the check-in process is similar to that of an airport. Park your car at the ferry terminal, return the key, check in your luggage and walk onto the ferry. Once you arrive at the other side, uplift your luggage, walk to the rental counter and get another car.
Passenger Travel plus Vehicle – what is the check-in process?
Some smaller car and motorhome rental companies do not allow drop-off/ pick-up at ferry terminals as they don’t have depots in Wellington and Picton. If using these companies, you will be required to take the vehicle on-board yourself. The key advantage is that you can avoid unloading and reloading your luggage, however you will have to purchase an additional ferry ticket for your vehicle.
It’s very important to know the length and height of your vehicle, as these details are requested when the Ferry reservation is made. Generally a standard car goes up to 5.5 metres in length and thereafter the cost increases for each half meter of length. Check-in time for vehicle crossings is at least 1 hour prior sailing (I’d recommend you be at the terminal for check-in at least 90 min prior sailing).
When do the Ferries sail and how long does it take?
The first Ferry crossing starts at 5am and goes right through to after midnight. Handy Hint: the night ferries are mainly used for heavy trucks. Remember you are solely responsible for driving your vehicle onto the ferry and large trucks can be intimidating in a confined space. The crossing generally takes 3 hours and 15 minutes, but this varies according to weather and sea conditions in the Cook Strait. Note: this stretch of water channel is well-known for it’s heavy seas and strong wind conditions! Prone to seasickness? Take medication for this 1 hour before.
What to do on the Ferry?
While onboard the ferry you can enjoy a range of entertainment (e.g. cinema), restaurant/ cafe and sightseeing opportunities. A playground for children is also handy for parents who also need to relax.
Travelling by ferry between the islands of New Zealand can be an exciting journey over Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds of the South Island. The Ferry Terminal, rental car companies and the Kiwi Rail train are in close proximity and staff are very helpful…
… overall travellers find this a pleasurable experience with stunning scenery to be enjoyed on the way.
Happy Travelling
