New Zealand Transport & Getting Around

Transport & Getting Around

There are three international airports in NZ located in the major centres of Auckland and Wellington in the north island and Christchurch in the south. A large number of international carriers operate flights into New Zealand including Air New Zealand, Qantas, Virgin Blue, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air Canada and a number of other carriers. Australian airlines also fly direct to Dunedin, Queenstown, and Hamilton.

Domestic airports cover all parts of the country with over 20 airports of various size in operation. The facilities and frequencies of flights are generally proportional to the size of the population that they service.

The close proximity of many destinations and the spectacular countryside and good roads mean that tourists often prefer to take in the beautiful scenery by renting a car or motor-home. You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). New Zealand's roads are of a generally high standard and the main roads are sealed. All roads, including those in rural locations, are signposted. Take chains with you if you are going to drive to ski resorts in the colder winter months (June-September) and remember to drive on the left!

There are a number of major coach and bus companies that cover almost all of the country. Options for bus or coach travel include organised tours of large swathes of the country right through to short hops within the major cities.

Rail coverage is not extensive in New Zealand however both Wellington and Auckland have a commuter train service. There are a few train trips in operation that cater for tourists and offer a relaxed train experience with some spectacular scenery.

Ferries and sightseeing boats are very common in New Zealand and a great many services are in operation around the country. A car ferry service operates between the north and south islands.