How long does it take to get between the North and South Islands?

Question

My husband and I are moving to New Zealand shortly and are curious about that. You and your car are ferried across right?

How long from Hamilton to Auckland? How long from Hamilton to Christchurch?

Answer 1

You can cross the Cook Strait by ferry, the Inter-islander takes 3 hours from departure to arrival. With a car you need to check-in at least 1 hour prior to departure and on arrival it can take 20-30 minutes to disembark depending on the volume of trucks, trains, cars on board.Similarly, the Strait Shipping, Bluebridge ferry takes 3 1/2 hours to cross. These times apply whether going from Wellington to Picton or vice versa.

A car trip from Hamilton to Auckland can take 1 to 1 1/2 hours depending on time of day and traffic volume.

A car trip Hamilton to Christchurch would take about 6 hours Hamilton to Wellington then say 4 1/2 hours ferry journey plus 5 hours Picton to Christchurch.

Christchurch to Dunedin would take about 5 1/2 hours.

The times I've given you do not include time spent stopping for refreshments, toilets, etc.

i hope when you come to New Zealand (GODZONE!) you will enjoy it.

Answer 2

From Wellington (North Island) to Picton (South Island) The 92km voyage on the Interislander takes 3 hours and has been described as "one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world".  Yes this is a vehicle and passenger ferry.

Hamilton to Auckland is 126km's and takes about an 1hr 50mins driving.

Hamilton to Christchurch is 960kms and takes 15hrs 25mins driving.

Answer 3

internet  air flights are very cheap in nz in the winter here too,,,between cities

Answer 4

About four to five hours, not counting stops.  Can do it in less butnot at legal speeds.