New Zealand is abound with natural beauty and once you are here, you will most probably do quite a bit of traveling all over the country. This is because much of New Zealand’s attractions are spread out all over place. The best way to get around New Zealand is by plane, with the domestic air network here very good. If you are on a budget, consider purchasing an air pass, which provides you with a number of coupons you can use to travel throughout New Zealand.

Getting Around New Zealand by Air

Getting around New Zealand by air is both cheap and economical. Domestic flights here especially by the national carrier Air New Zealand, are quite affordable and cost just a little more than driving or taking a train. It is also better to travel by air as it will save you plenty of precious time, which you can use exploring the wonderful countryside. You can book your air tickets online or through a travel agent and even pay for it with your credit card. Do keep in mind however that you must check in at least 30 minutes before your departure.

Air New Zealand serves most regions of the country in collaboration with a number of smaller domestic airlines as well such as Air Nelson and Eagle Air. The second largest domestic carrier is Origin Pacific, with Qantas connecting nine of New Zealand’s major cities. If you wish to visit the Hauraki Gulf Islands, Stewart Islands or Chatham Islands, there are a few small airlines that will fly you here. Great Barrier Airlines, Mountain Air and Soundsair also offer domestic air travel services.

Getting around New Zealand by Train

A great way to get around New Zealand is by train. Both the cities of Wellington and Auckland have commuter rail services that are operated by Tranz Metro and Veolia respectively. The Overlander runs between Auckland and Wellington, while the Capital Connection leaves from Palmerston North to Wellington in the morning and returns in the evening. The TranzCoastal runs from Christchurch to Picton daily, while the most scenic train ride in the country has to be the TranzAlpine which runs everyday from Christchurch to Greymouth. This train ride takes you across the South Island passing by some truly spectacular scenery along the way.

Getting around New Zealand by Bus

Buses are a cheap and affordable way to get around New Zealand. The bus system here is well organized and well connected, visiting over 600 destinations across the country. InterCity Coachlines is New Zealand’s national bus company and provides routes to most major cities and towns. Newmans Coach lines provides tourist sightseeing buses to all the important tourist points on both the North and the South Island. If you are traveling by bus InterCity offers a ‘Flexi-Pass,’ which lets you travel around at more affordable rates. Backpacker buses are also available especially for budget travelers to travel around New Zealand at cheaper rates. These buses are usually with backpack travelers.

Getting around New Zealand by Boat

If you are traveling around New Zealand by car, then to get your car between the North and South Islands you will have to use a ferry to cross the Cook Strait. Several ferries run daily between Wellington and Picton. Passenger ferries also run regularly between Auckland and Wellington as well, with tourist boats on hand to visit locations like the Fiordland area.

Getting around New Zealand by Coach

Coaches are also a popular way of getting around New Zealand. By using a coach tour, you can have a stress free vacation, where all your needs are taken care of from your accommodations to your tours and other sightseeing activities. These multi-day trips also provide you with a knowledgeable guide of the area.

Getting around New Zealand by Bike

Numerous tourists cycle all over New Zealand, particularly in the summer time. If you like, you can bring your own bike or just rent one in any of the larger cities. Always wear a riding helmet or you will be fined and remember to drive here on the left of the road. Biking in New Zealand is great it is relatively uncrowded and the roads are in excellent condition.

Getting around New Zealand by Car

The easiest way to travel around New Zealand is by renting a car. A rental car lets you travel wherever you want; whenever you want and gives you the flexibility to make your own travel plans while you vacation in this gorgeous country. In the major cities you can encounter lots of traffic, but on the open roads elsewhere the traffic is thin and you can enjoy some great long drives. There are literally hundreds of car rental firms in New Zealand to choose from. If you are in New Zealand for more than 2 weeks, it is advisable to rent a car and take in the tourist sights.