The inter island ferry (known as the "Interislander") travels between Wellington, on New Zealand's North Island, and Picton, on the South Island.

The inter island ferry service is actually a group of three ships, which transport passengers and vehicles between the two main islands in New Zealand.








The Voyage

The 92 kilometre voyage between Wellington and Picton (located in the Marlborough district) takes around 3 hours, and has been described as one of the most spectacular ferry voyages in the world. Crossing Cook Strait, the voyage passes through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds as it nears Picton on the South Island. Up to 11 services per day operate, and the three ships, the Arahura, the Aratere, and the Kaitaki, offer passengers a safe, comfortable voyage, with a wide range of onboard services.

The inter island ferry offers a very cost effective alternative to flying between the North and South Islands, and I can say from personal experience, that the voyage is relaxing, and spectacular.

If your New Zealand holiday includes both islands, then it is often practical to finish your North Island trip at Wellington, catch the inter island ferry to Picton, at the top of the South Island, and resume your trip.

Picton is also the starting point for the famous Marlborough wine region, and is around 2 hours drive from the amazing Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park region.

The Ships

Kaitaki or "challenger" in Maori, carries up to 1600 passengers. It is the largest ferry operating in New Zealand, and offers passengers a range of observation points, several food outlets, as well as nurseries and play areas to keep the kids occupied (and parents happy!).

Arahura or "pathway to dawn" carries up to 550 passengers and has been making the journey across Cook Strait since 1984.

A bar and food court cater for passengers culinary needs, and a range of observation decks and lounges assure a comfortable voyage. The ship also has a cinema just in case looking at spectacular scenery is not your thing!

Aratere means "quick path". This modern vessel provides passengers with a comfortable and entertaining trip.

Facilities include a food court, a cinema, a well stocked bar, and a unique Club Class Lounge, which offers passengers upgraded services for a small extra charge.

Terminal Information - Wellington

You can get to the Wellington terminal in several ways:

Shuttle Bus

The Interislander operates a shuttle bus service from Platform 9 at the Wellington Railway Station. At the time of publication the cost was $2 per person (kids under 5 are free). Purchase tickets by cash or credit card at the ticketing station. The shuttle leaves 50 minutes before departure of each inter island ferry sailing. The shuttle also runs from the ferry terminal back to Wellington Railway Station (provided sailings arrive before 9 p.m.).

Backpackers Bus

A service, costing $3, operates for Base and YHA Backpackers to the Wellington terminal. Tickets need to be pre-purchased from the relevant backpackers hostel.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available for transport to the inter island ferry terminal.

Terminal Information - Picton

Transport to the Picton inter island ferry terminal can be by:

Train

If you arrive on the TranzCoastal train it's a 4-5 minute walk. Just follow the footpath from the station.

Walking

The terminal is only a few minute's walk from Picton's town centre.

Hotels, motels and backpacker accommodation

Many providers offer passengers a pre arranged drop off. Check with your accommodation provider.

Water Taxis

Water taxi companies may also provide a drop off at the terminal.

Bus Stop

A bus stop for services from out of Picton is located at the Interislander terminal.

A Special Note If You Are Hiring A Rental Car or Campervan

Car and campervan hire companies have varying policies regarding allowing their cars or campervans to travel on the inter island ferry. Some companies allow it and some don't, so please check at the time that you book your rental car or campervan.

Some companies require that you drop off your car at either Picton or Wellington, and collect a new vehicle after your inter island ferry journey.

We offer a full booking service for the Interislander.

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Inter Island ferry or fly between islands?