Your comprehensive guide to exploring New Zealand

Located at the western edge of the Pacific, New Zealand is a long and slender nation with a relatively low population density, divided into two main islands by the Cook Strait. To fully experience New Zealand, you'll need to traverse this waterway, but frequent car ferries make it simple to embark on a road trip around both the North Island and South Island in a rental car or campervan.

Most travelers typically arrive in Auckland, Christchurch, or Wellington, all of which have excellent public transport systems. However, once you venture beyond these urban centers, you’ll find expansive landscapes, towering mountains, and dense native bush to navigate.

In many regions, the distance to the next town can be significant, and most New Zealanders prefer to travel by car. Many visitors follow suit, although public transport does link the main cities, it tends to run less frequently to more remote towns, villages, and tourist attractions.

There's an abundance of things to see and do in New Zealand—whether you're keen to explore urban areas or immerse yourself in nature, here are some of the best ways to get around.

Explore more of New Zealand by taking a road trip

New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes offer incredible road trip opportunities, and driving allows for convenience and flexibility, particularly when accessing attractions off the main highways. Many renowned national parks are secluded, so having a vehicle is essential for thorough exploration, although organized tours and hiking can also provide access to various sites.

Navigating New Zealand by car is fairly easy, with light traffic outside the major urban areas. You won't need to be as concerned about wildlife on the roads compared to Australia. The driving is on the left side of the road, and visitors can use their home driver’s license for up to a year.

Remember that car rentals can be pricey, and insurance may be steep for drivers under 25. If you're traveling between the islands, check if your rental car is permitted on the Interislander or Bluebridge ferries that cross the Cook Strait. It's advisable to reserve your vehicle on the ferry ahead of time to ensure a spot.

In more remote areas, gas stations can be few and far between, so always fill up before embarking on a long journey. Be mindful that some roads may be gravel or dirt, particularly in rural regions, featuring narrow and winding sections, as well as tight spots over mountain passes. One-way bridges are quite common, especially on the South Island, so watch for signs indicating who yields to oncoming traffic.

Distances in New Zealand can be misleading, as road travel is frequently slower than expected. Following a campervan or truck on a single-lane road can significantly extend your travel time. Encountering road repairs and “slips” (New Zealand's term for landslides) due to weather events like Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 is not uncommon. Check Waka Kotahi’s journey planner before you set off.

If you're traversing any of the South Island’s mountain passes in winter, having snow chains is not just recommended, it's required in some areas, such as the road to Milford Sound. Road signs will indicate when chains must be fitted, so ensure you know how to put them on correctly. Car rental companies offer chain rentals and can guide you on their usage.

Traveling by campervan offers maximum flexibility

Using a campervan or motorhome allows you to save on lodging by staying at campsites and holiday parks located in some of New Zealand’s most beautiful areas, including within the country's national parks. Many companies provide campervan rentals, ranging from large operators like Britz to smaller local agencies.

If you intend to try “freedom camping” — which involves staying overnight in designated free parking areas — you'll need a certified self-contained vehicle, meaning it must have the capability to hold your own water and manage waste disposal. Remember, freedom camping doesn’t give you the right to park and sleep wherever you like.

Regulations have recently changed, and local councils set bylaws, so it's advisable to check camping.org.nz for guidance on where to camp or download the CamperMate app for more information.

Bus services link cities and towns across New Zealand

Coaches offer reliable connections between most major cities and towns in New Zealand. You can book them ahead of time at reasonable prices, but reaching many rural areas and national parks will require less frequent local buses.

While there are several regional bus operators, InterCity stands out as the national bus company. You can expect amenities like onboard WiFi and occasional toilets (or regular restroom breaks). InterCity also provides flexible bus passes, which include ferry rides on the Interislander. Off-season discounts on bus tickets are frequently available.

Additionally, there are hop-on, hop-off buses and shuttles aimed at tourists and backpackers, though these can be significantly pricier. The lively atmosphere on some of these buses may not suit everyone; Kiwi Experience is the most recognized operator in this category.

Enjoy the breathtaking landscape with scenic train journeys

While New Zealand's trains primarily focus on freight and local commuter transport, there are several scenic regional trains that cater to tourists, offering stunning views along the route.

Great Journeys New Zealand operates three picturesque routes with convenient stops. The Northern Explorer travels from Auckland to Wellington, the Coastal Pacific connects Picton and Christchurch, and the TranzAlpine takes you from Christchurch to Greymouth through the stunning Arthur’s Pass.

Additionally, check out the tourist trains departing from Dunedin’s historic railway station, which typically serve day trips rather than point-to-point travel.

Domestic flights offer the fastest way to travel between cities

Although many travelers opt for land travel in New Zealand, flying allows you to reach various destinations much quicker, albeit with a larger environmental footprint. For those pressed for time, flying between North and South Islands is common, and some camper rental companies provide one-way rentals (at a premium), enabling you to drive one way and fly back or depart from a different airport.

Air New Zealand is the country's national carrier, servicing 20 destinations nationwide, while smaller regional airlines operate in remote areas like the Chatham Islands and Rakiura/Stewart Island. Be aware that domestic flights can face cancellations and delays due to New Zealand's unpredictable weather, which may include high winds, snow, and fog in certain areas.

Domestic flight tip: For flights to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, or Queenstown, consider the budget airline Jetstar. Alternatively, visit Grabaseat.co.nz for discounted tickets on Air New Zealand flights.

Transportation options for accessibility in New Zealand

New Zealand’s attractions and national parks are quite accessible, with ramps, improved displays, and paths designed for those with mobility impairments at many sites. Additionally, most public transportation, including buses and trains, is accessible, typically featuring ramps, handrails, and low steps.

The New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) operates the Total Mobility Scheme, which helps locate discounted accessible transportation across various regions, encompassing public transport and taxis. Many car rental services provide accessible vehicles, and for specialized rentals, you can reach out to Disability Vehicle Rentals and Freedom Mobility.

International visitors can also apply for mobility parking permits, which take about 10 working days to process, so it's advisable to apply in advance before your trip. The Department of Conservation offers a search tool to help you find accessible trails.

Transport cards

If you're planning to spend time in New Zealand's major cities and utilize public transport, consider purchasing a prepaid transport card for your chosen city. These cards offer discounted fares with a daily maximum cap, allowing for seamless travel across multiple transport options. For instance, in Auckland, you can hop on buses, trains, or ferries, with a maximum charge of NZ$50 over a week.

Helpful card options include Auckland’s AT HOP card, Wellington’s Snapper card, and Christchurch’s Metrocard. If you’re heading to Otago, the Bee card is available for use throughout the region, including in Queenstown and Dunedin.