Summary
There are a number of different ways to get around and explore New Zealand. Here are the best travel options, taking into account time frame, budget, and the places you want to see.
Car
If you are driving in New Zealand, you will find an excellent network of well-maintained and sealed roads. Depending on the terrain, some of them can be quite narrow and winding, particularly in the North Island. Cities like Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, and Christchurch feature motorway systems that make it relatively easy to navigate, even during rush hour, which is manageable compared to other global cities.
The speed limit for driving generally hovers around 50 km/hr (30 miles per hour) in urban zones, soaring to an upper limit of 100 km/hr (70 miles per hour) on open roads and motorways. Moreover, bear in mind to drive on the left-hand side of the road, similar to Australia and the UK.
A unique characteristic of some remote roads, especially around Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula, is the presence of ‘one-way’ bridges. These only accommodate a single lane; watch for the ‘Give Way’ sign to determine which vehicle should cross first.
For comprehensive driving maps and other advice, the New Zealand Automobile Association and Visitor Information Centers are invaluable resources.
Numerous rental companies are available at airports and key centers throughout New Zealand. It’s highly advisable to reserve your vehicle ahead of time online to secure the best rates.
Campervan (RV)
Every year, over 100,000 motorhomes, referred to as campervans locally, traverse the roads of New Zealand, making this an increasingly popular travel option. There is a vast selection of sizes and configurations available to meet your travel needs and budget.
For overnight stays, campers have primarily two options. The first is booking a site at a campground or holiday park, which provides ample parking along with cooking and washing facilities.
If your vehicle is classified as ‘self-contained,’ meaning it has its own certified water and waste containment, numerous locations permit ‘freedom camping.’ This essentially allows you to park almost wherever you please, provided you adhere to common sense.
Bus
Daily bus services connect most of New Zealand’s prominent destinations, making this a favored transport choice among tourists. One notable advantage of bus travel is the comfort it provides, eliminating the need for you to drive. Additionally, drivers often share engaging narratives about the locales you travel through, enriching your journey with local stories and humor.
Coach Tour
An organized coach tour provides a low-stress and informative transport option in New Zealand. You can choose from a variety of regional or national tours that cater to your available time. Typically, these tours include accommodation, as well as options for meals and sightseeing activities.
Train
Although train travel may not be the optimal way to explore New Zealand due to a somewhat limited rail network, several memorable train journeys await. The most notable routes include the scenic journey between Auckland and Wellington, along with the breathtaking TranzAlpine, which traverses the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth in the South Island.
Air
Air New Zealand and JetStar serve as the two primary national carriers, operating flights between major centers and numerous smaller destinations. The competitive nature of air travel in New Zealand ensures affordable prices and the possibility of securing significant fare reductions. Booking as far in advance as possible generally yields the best opportunities to find bargains.
Moreover, there are smaller airlines servicing specialized destinations such as Great Barrier Island and Stewart Island.
Motorcycle
Exploring New Zealand by motorcycle provides an exhilarating experience! The long, straight roads coupled with stunning scenery create an ideal setting for motorcyclists. Many companies specialize in motorcycle rentals, making it easy to get on the road.
Bicycle
For the adventurous, cycling can be an enticing way to traverse New Zealand. However, travelers should be prepared for steep hills and narrow roads (particularly in the North Island), which could pose challenges. Despite these obstacles, many individuals opt to explore on two wheels, with various operators across the country offering bike rentals or guided tours.
