Is it better to visit the North or South Island of New Zealand?

Is it better to visit the North or South Island of New Zealand? 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.

How many days is enough for New Zealand?

How long does it take to travel New Zealand? New Zealand is a relatively compact country, so you can see most of the country's highlights in two weeks. To explore more of the regions and get off the beaten track, you could easily spend three weeks or more exploring.

Why is South Island New Zealand the best place to visit?

New Zealand's South Island hosts the purest natural landscapes you'll ever experience. From wildlife to wineries, glacial valleys to star-filled skies, the South Island offers adventure in all its forms. Choose to explore just one region, or road trip from Picton all the way down to Bluff.

Is 10 days enough for New Zealand?

For a 10-day trip, we recommend visiting up to four or five different destinations. Our 10-day itinerary locations are some of the most popular: Auckland the City of Sails, Wellington the cultural, art and food capital, and Queenstown the home of world-class adrenaline activities.

How long is the ferry ride from North to South Island New Zealand?

New Zealand's most famous and beautiful ferry route is between Wellington in the North Island and Picton in the South Island. The journey between the two islands is commonly referred to as 'crossing the Cook Strait'. The sailing time is around 3.5 hours (weather dependent).

Should I skip North Island NZ?

It's a no-brainer that if you are travelling to New Zealand for more than a couple of weeks, you should visit both islands! Yet, with limited time off work and/or a limited budget, you may have no other choice than to make the most of either the North Island or South Island. One island isn't “better” than the other.

How rough is the Cook Strait?

Cook Strait can also be one of the world's roughest stretches of water. It's part of the westerly wind belt known as the Roaring Forties. As the only gap between the mountainous main islands of the country, the strait acts like a huge wind tunnel.

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

Taking the ferry as a walk-on passenger 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.

How many days do you need to see South Island New Zealand?

How long should I set aside for the South Island in New Zealand? You'll need at least 10 days to properly see the South Island, and that's why this blog post has been written as a 10-day itinerary. However, there is so much to see in the South Island that you can really stay here as long as you have the time for.

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.

Where to go for 10 days in New Zealand?

For a 10-day trip, we recommend visiting up to four or five different destinations. Our 10-day itinerary locations are some of the most popular: Auckland the City of Sails, Wellington the cultural, art and food capital, and Queenstown the home of world-class adrenaline activities.

Where is the most scenic part of New Zealand?

How do you travel between the North and South Island of New Zealand?

Because there is no bridge or tunnel between the islands, you'll either have to catch a flight or take the ferry. When planning your itinerary, you'll need to factor in the main regions you want to cover and the time frame available. If you're in a hurry, the best option is to go by air.