Let's stay in New Zealand for a while longer. After having recently shown you around New Zealand, let's now focus on one of the practical aspects of your trip: ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton or how to reach the South Island from the North Island.
Summary:> Reaching Picton from Wellington: The crossing
> Ferry New Zealand: prices and companies
> Ferry to Wellington
> Ferry to Picton Direct link :
This link allows you to compare ferry prices between Wellington and Picton. Book the ferry
Reach Picton from Wellington: The crossing
To reach the South Island from the North Island in New Zealand (or vice versa) you have few choices. It is, of course, possible to opt for a flight between two cities in the country but if you are traveling by car, van or motorhome, then you will have to take the ferry and cross the Cook Strait. A wide strait, closest to the two islands, of only 22 kilometers. However the particular relief of the two islands, in particular of the South Island, lengthens the journey.
Indeed, in the North, the South Island is made up of the Marlborough sound, small islands and protrusions of land which oblige the ferry to slalom between these lands.
The ferry connecting the South Island to the North Island in New Zealand, takes about 3h to 3h30 to make the crossing. We will see in this article the different ferry companies, the prices, how to take the ferry in New Zealand with your van or motorhome but also the practical information to know in Wellington and Picton.
Ferry New Zealand: prices and companies
First of all, know that to reach Picton from Wellington by ferry (or vice versa), there are only two companies: Bluebridge et Interislander.
As much to tell you right away, these two companies are equal in every way and the prices are close. A small difference concerns the duration of the crossing. The Bluebridge company makes the crossing in 3h30 while Interislander makes it in 3h.
Both companies offer several crossings each day, between 2 and 4 depending on the time of year.
There are several options when purchasing your ferry crossing:
- Passenger crossing (without vehicle) – around 32€
- Crossing by car (or small van) – around 110€
- Crossing by motorhome (+ 8m) – around 230€
To this you can add options such as a trailer or a cabin for 1, 2, 4 or even 5 people. Add to the price between 20 and 50€ for a cabin.
How to book your ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton?
There are several ways to book your ferry crossing. You can go to the website of the respective companies or use a price comparator. The latter will allow you to compare, at the same time, the rates offered by the two companies and to book your ferry.
How long before the crossing should I book the ferry in New Zealand?
It all depends on when you are going. In low season, during the winter in New Zealand (April-September) you can book your ferry 1 or 2 days before.
If you are traveling to New Zealand during a busy period, this is the case during the months of December and January, then I advise you to book your ferry between Wellington and Picton several days before (3 or 4 days). This will allow you to have a wider choice in the proposed schedules.
Can you stay in your vehicle during the crossing?
For security reasons it is absolutely forbidden to stay in your vehicle during the crossing. You have to go back to the different bridges. You will find lounges, restaurants. You can also go out on the outside deck or rent a cabin to rest.
What to do during the crossing?
It is possible to go to a TV room in which a film is shown. You can also sit at a table, eat or take out your electronic devices like your computer. The ferry is equipped with power outlets and wifi.
You can also stay on deck and take in the scenery. The ferry spends most of its time very close to the coast whether in Wellington or in Marlborough Sound.
It is possible to see whales, dolphins or killer whales that inhabit the Cook Strait.
How long before departure should I arrive?
If you take the ferry with your vehicle then it is best to arrive at least 1 hour before. The time to board all the vehicles, otherwise allow 30 minutes.
See ferry prices
Ferry to Wellington
Some information about the ferry to Wellington. According to the company there are two piers:
If you have opted for the Bluebridge company then you will have to go to 50 Waterloo Quay. This is the closest pier to downtown Wellington.
If you have opted for the Interislander company, this one is at Wellington Ferry Terminal 1 Aotea Quay.
If you arrive during the day, you can take some time to visit Wellington. You can park your car, van or motorhome not far from the Te Papa museum. A large car park (paying) is at your disposal.
Wellington has no shortage of things to do and see, starting with the famous Te Papa museum.
If you arrive the day before your crossing, there are several campsites located outside of town towards Lower Hutt. If you have a self-contained vehicle you can spend the night in the car park not far from Te Papa, however this is chargeable.
If you are on foot, or by car, you can book one of the many hotels or hostels in the city.
Be careful, depending on your vehicle rental company, you may not be authorized to cross with it. Be sure to educate yourself.
Ferry to Picton
Picton is the entry point to the South Island by "land" route. Indeed even if it is Christchurch the largest city of the South Island and the main point of entry, it is not possible to reach the South Island by ferry other than by taking the Wellington road -Picture.
Picton is a small town nestled between the hills and the sea. A charming little town where you will find everything you need. Store, restaurants, bars, gas station (beware, gasoline is much more expensive on the South Island). You will also find several campsites here or spend the night after or before your ferry crossing.
