New Zealand Transport and Accommodation

Transport Extensive range of transportation options. Air travel, ferries, trains, buses and coaches. Self drive to fully escorted. Discount travel passes combining different transport types. Economic and relaxing way to see the country.

Air Travel

Coach and Custom Transfers National Transport Network Pre organised structured tours Modern fleet, including some with Euro 4 environmental rating Custom Transfers Sit back and enjoy the views Personal touch Luxury to economy options Character vehicles available

Public Transport – Bus, Train, Ferries and Taxi Cities are well serviced with public transport Bus and taxi services are available in cities and most towns Auckland and Wellington have a public rail system linking suburbs Auckland’s ferries connect to nearby islands such as Waiheke. Wellington’s ferries connect to the South Island via Picton.

Rail New Zealand has key rail experiences through out the country. Tranz Alpine, Tranz Coastal, and Overlander The Taieri Gorge and the Kingston Flyer

Cook Strait Ferry Services InterIslander ferry and Bluebridge ferry. Regular, daily sailings between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island). Some car and campervan rental companies will not allow their vehicles on the ferry – it pays to check before booking for clients.

Self Drive Rental vehicle companies demand all drivers are at least 21 years of age or older. New Zealand recognises all other countries drivers licences – as long as they are in English or you carry an official translation of the document into English. An international license is not mandatory but is also recognised. Most well known rental companies operate in New Zealand; Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar It is recommended that you choose Qualmark operators who have been quality accredited.

Driving in New Zealand Uncongested driving – there’s only 4.3 million people! Quality roads with plenty of signage. New Zealand is a left hand drive country Driving gives you the opportunity to set your own pace, and stop where you like. Privacy and a more intimate interaction with the landscape.

Motorhomes The freedom to stop where and when you like. Self catering and usually fully equipped with essentials like crockery, cutlery and bedding as well as optional extras like outdoor tables and sunshades. Can sleep between 2 to 6 people. Available with onboard amenities including shower.

Accommodation High Season - Dec/Jan/Feb can affect rates and availability. Low Season - June/July/August – can affect rates. Recommend that you book at least the first two night’s accommodation in New Zealand during high and shoulder seasons or during event times. Shoulders New Zealand spring - Sept/Oct/Nov New Zealand autumn - March/April/May

Hotels International chain hotels are found in the main centres and resorts. Smaller properties can also be found in regional centres. Hotels offer fully serviced rooms and facilities such as gyms, room service and valet parking. Tariffs range from NZ$230 upwards.

Serviced Apartments Apartments range from studios with kitchenettes through to three bedroom units with full kitchen facilities. They’re serviced daily or weekly depending on requirements and can include swimming pools, restaurants and gym facilities. Serviced apartments are a popular choice with family groups or longer stay visitors who are looking for ‘home comforts’ while they travel, such as washing machines and fridges. There are several established chains of apartments in New Zealand, as well as smaller properties.

Unique character, charm and personalised service Known world wide for their décor, location, food and wine offer and exceptional customer service. Usually offer activities such as fishing, golf, relaxation treatments, cruises and walks. Rates start from NZ$600 a night per person and are usually inclusive of food and wine during the stay. Sporting Lodges and Exclusive Retreats

Bed and Breakfast Many located in restored historic buildings and private homes. Although some have shared bathroom facilities, others boast private baths and spas per room. They provide an opportunity to interact with real New Zealanders - often a holiday highlight. Rates start from around NZ$90 per night and breakfast is included in the tariff.

Farm or Homestays A unique way to discover a real slice of New Zealand life. Provides the opportunity to make a lasting connection with New Zealand, and make friends with the locals. A very social experience accommodation style, not for the recluse! Enjoy home cooked meals with New Zealand families and accommodation in their home. For farmstays, enjoy the chance to try your hand at real farm work like feeding stock, herding and harvesting. Tariffs including dinner and breakfast range from NZ$120 to around NZ$400 per double per night.

Motels Usually owner operated, offering the comforts of self catering and parking at the door. Can be fully self contained including laundry facilities, or have kitchenettes with common laundry areas. Some offer spas, restaurants, swimming pools and cable television. Tariffs start from NZ$80 per room per night.

Youth and Backpacker Hostels YHA, BBH and other independently owned hostels abound throughout New Zealand. Inexpensive, often dormitory style accommodation for budget travellers. Most also offer private rooms for families or couples, some with private facilities. Shared kitchen and laundry facilities, some with pool or spa. Some with internet facilities and bar. Great opportunities for meeting other travellers and share travel information. Tariffs range from NZ$10 per person per night, with rates for private rooms higher than this.

Campgrounds Holiday Parks offer a range of accommodation, from powered sites for campervans and caravans, through to campsites and cabins. Most offer water, electricity and waste hook-ups. Communal kitchens, shower blocks, laundry facilities, TV/games rooms, BBQ areas and a small grocery store onsite. Are mostly located near holiday areas such as parks and beaches. The Department of Conservation also offers campgrounds on conservation land, usually of a basic nature, but in unique places like National Parks and islands. Tariffs can vary, but range from around NZ$10 a night for tent sites through to NZ$25-70 for cabins.