Air travel

Airports link all main centres and many smaller cities and tourist destinations.  Distances are fairly short – the flight from Auckland to Wellington takes just under an hour.  Booking flights on-line through the Internet is common and can offer discounts. 

For full-time students with an ISIC card or Youth Card (under 25), it's worth finding out what STA Travel can offer at http://www.statravel.co.nz/

For domestic flights, see:

•    www.airnewzealand.co.nz (goes to most New Zealand regions)

•    www.jetstar.com – selected New Zealand regions (flights between Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown)

Boats

The Interislander and Bluebridge ferries link the North and South Islands, carrying passengers and vehicles between Wellington and Picton several times a day.  Commuter ferries cross Auckland and Wellington harbours and scenic cruises are popular in many places.

For ferry transport between the North and South Islands, see:

•    www.bluebridge.co.nz

•    www.interislander.co.nz

Buses and trains

In most cities, buses run at least every 20 minutes at peak times.  Auckland and Wellington also have reliable train services.  10-trip and monthly passes offer the cheapest fares.  Secondary school students are eligible for a discount on bus and train travel to and from school.  Large institutions operate shuttle buses between different campuses within the same city - these are usually subsidised.

Cycling

Bikes are a good way to get around New Zealand’s compact cities and towns.  Cyclists are required by law to use lights and reflectors at night and to always wear a helmet.  They should ride near the left side of the road, not on the footpath, and look out for sign-posted cycle lanes in cities.

Motorcycles

To ride a motorcycle, students must be at least 15 and have a motorcycle licence (or a car licence if the bike is under 50cc).  Both the driver and the pillion passenger must wear helmets.  Motorcycles must be registered and have a warrant of fitness.

Cars and Road Safety

Driving in New Zealand can be enjoyable and an easy way to explore.  New Zealand accepts valid and current driving licenses from most countries or an international driving permit, allowing visitors to drive in New Zealand for up to 1 year after arrival.  Students should note that they may need a translation if their license isn’t in English – they would need to carry this with them while driving.  

After 1 year in New Zealand, students will need to pass a theory test and sometimes a practical driving test to get a New Zealand driver’s license.  

To convert an overseas driver license to a New Zealand license, the driver will need to apply at a driver licensing agent and complete an Application for conversion of an overseas driver license form.  They will also need to present their overseas license, evidence of identity and address details.  An eyesight screening check may also be required and a license fee will apply.

The minimum legal age to apply for a car driver license in New Zealand is 15 years old (and currently there is a Government proposal to increase this to 16 years).  A learner license must be obtained before students can start to learn to drive.  

International students aged 15 and above who wish to acquire a Drivers license in New Zealand are eligible to apply for one.  However students enrolled at a School may be restricted from driving under their school rules.

Cars must be registered and have a current warrant of fitness.  It is also strongly recommended to have car insurance.

Rental cars are plentiful and can be a good way to see the countryside if students don't have their own car.  An International Driver's License is required for car rental and students must be over 25 years of age.  Visitors should be prepared to pay a large bond if they do not have a credit card.

See New Zealand Laws Safety Issues for Important Road Rules.