Is there a bridge between the two New Zealand islands?

Is there a bridge between the two New Zealand islands? Can you drive from North to South in New Zealand? Fancy a road trip between islands? Unfortunately, there is no bridge or tunnel connecting the islands, the distance is too great. However, there is an Interislander Ferry or Bluebridge Cook Strait car ferry that you can hop aboard.

What is the best time to visit 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.

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.

Why is New Zealand never on the map?

It is considered that this is because of the widespread use of the Mercator projection, a map projection putting Europe in the center which leaves New Zealand in the bottom right-hand corner of maps, sometimes making it go overlooked by mapmakers, easily removed by an accidental crop, or simply not added for ...

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).

Can you fly from North Island to South Island New Zealand?

Flight Options From North Island and South Island If you want to travel from North Island to South Island, fly from Wellington Airport to either Nelson Airport or Blenheim Airport. Another option is flying into Christchurch, then renting a car to return at Queenstown Airport.

How many days do you need for New Zealand?

Condensing Your Trip Into Less Than Two Weeks You could easily spend longer than two weeks in New Zealand, but that's the minimum amount of time you'll need to explore the country properly. Divide your time evenly between the North and South Island and take into account the days that will be lost to travel.

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.

Can you swim between New Zealand islands?

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.

How do you get around New Zealand without a car?

Bus services connect New Zealand's cities and towns Although regional options exist, InterCity is the only national bus company – you can expect onboard WiFi and sometimes toilets. InterCity also offers flexible passes, which include ferry passage on the Interislander ferry.

How long does it take to visit both islands in New Zealand?

One of the best ways to tour New Zealand is from behind the wheel of a car (or a campervan). This itinerary is designed as a 3 week road trip, starting in Auckland on the North Island and ending at Queenstown on the South Island.

Which country is most beautiful Australia or New Zealand?

New Zealand, by contrast, is sprinkled with turquoise lakes and soaring peaks, dramatic fiords and winding valleys, golden beaches and luscious forests, and acres more spectacular scenery that makes it the most gorgeous country on earth.

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.

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.