Can you drive from one end of New Zealand to the other?


Can you drive from one end of New Zealand to the other? How Long Does it Take to Drive Around New Zealand? Driving around New Zealand can take anywhere between 30 hours, if driving from top to bottom and taking the ferry between the North and South Island, to 65 hours if doing a thorough road trip of both islands with the ferry included.


Can you take a car from North Island to South Island New Zealand?

It takes around three hours to go from the North Island to the South Island by ferry. Remember, apart from Apex and GO Rentals, rental providers generally don't allow their vehicles to be taken on the ferry, so you'll need to drop off your vehicle either at Wellington or Picton before boarding.


What is the cheapest way to get from North Island to South Island New Zealand?

Taking the ferry without a vehicle is the cheapest - and also the most convenient - way of crossing the strait - and if you book with us you will leave your existing rental vehicle at one end, and pick up a new one at the other.


Can you take a rental car between islands in New Zealand?

MULTI ISLAND HIRE The Multi-Island Hire sets up one booking for your entire journey. Customers travelling between the North and South Island are permitted to take Avis rental vehicles on the Inter-Island ferries across Cook Strait.


How many days in New Zealand is enough?

5-10 days will mean you can take a tour with more time to explore and more 2 nights stops on one island 10-14 days will allow you to visit both the North and South Island starting on one and finishing on the other.


Can you swim between North and South Island New Zealand?

A Scot has set a new world record for the fastest swim across the Cook Strait - the waters between New Zealand's North and South Islands. Andy Donaldson, 31, swam through the night to complete the 23km route in four hours and 33 minutes. It was the third leg of seven comprising the Oceans Seven challenge.


How long is New Zealand from top to bottom?

The length of New Zealand from top to bottom using the most direct road route is:
  • 2,090 km.
  • 1,298 miles.


Is it expensive to go to New Zealand?

Is New Zealand expensive to visit? New Zealand isn't cheap! Activities, car rentals and accommodations can really add up, making a trip to New Zealand very expensive. Eating in Aotearoa, whether in restaurants or even buying things from the grocery store, can be pricy as many of their goods are imported.


What are the best months to go to New Zealand?

The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months of December to March. Expect long, bright, sunny days and temperatures between 61°F and 75°F. It's an ideal time to visit the lovely beaches or enjoy the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking and mountain biking.


How do you travel between New Zealand islands?

Ferry companies Bluebridge(opens in new window) and the Interislander(opens in new window) ferries travel regularly between the two islands and are able to transfer vehicles, motorcycles and pets. Comfortable seating, lounges with Wi-Fi and dining options are available onboard, so are private cabins.


Do I need a 4x4 in New Zealand?

Unlike Iceland, you don't need a 4X4 for New Zealand unless you're travelling in a large group and need a spacious vehicle. A basic car will suffice as roads are in excellent condition and all landmarks are accessible via paved roads.


Why is there no bridge between New Zealand islands?

It would be engineeringly impossible to build a bridge or tunnel between the North and South Islands of NZ using current engineering technology. Cook Strait is very deep and the several earthquake fault lines would preclude a tunnel.


Is New Zealand North or South Island better?

Generally speaking, if you want to engage with city culture or explore Maori history, the North Island is for you. If you want to deep-dive into nature, the South Island has plenty of lakes, mountains, fjords, and glaciers to discover.