Sometimes. Whether you can take your rental car on the Interislander ferry depends on the rental company and the type of itinerary you've booked. Some rental vehicles are permitted to travel between the North and South Islands, while others require you to return your vehicle at one ferry terminal and collect a replacement vehicle on the other side.
Many visitors planning a New Zealand self-drive holiday want to explore both islands.
Travelling between Wellington and the South Island via the Interislander ferry is one of the most scenic parts of a New Zealand road trip. The crossing travels through Cook Strait and the spectacular Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Picton.
The vehicle arrangements depend on the rental supplier and your itinerary.
Why can't all rental cars travel between islands?
Rental car companies manage their fleets separately in the North and South Islands.
Allowing vehicles to travel freely between islands can create fleet imbalances, particularly during busy travel periods. For this reason, some suppliers prefer travellers to swap vehicles rather than take the same vehicle across Cook Strait.
This is a common arrangement and is usually straightforward.
What happens if I need to swap vehicles?
If your itinerary requires a vehicle change, the process is simple.
Typically:
- Drive your rental car to the ferry terminal in Wellington.
- Take the ferry as a foot passenger.
- Arrive in Picton.
- Collect a replacement rental vehicle.
- Continue your journey through destinations such as Kaikōura, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo or Queenstown.
Your travel consultant will advise if a vehicle swap applies to your booking and provide all necessary instructions.
Is taking the car on the ferry easier?
For many travellers, yes.
Keeping the same vehicle for the entire trip can be convenient, particularly if you're carrying luggage, sports equipment or travelling with children.
If your rental company allows inter-island travel, your vehicle is driven onto the ferry and transported with you during the crossing.
How long is the Interislander ferry crossing?
The journey typically takes around three and a half hours.
Many travellers consider it one of the highlights of their trip thanks to the scenery through the Marlborough Sounds.
The ferry includes:
- Indoor lounges
- Viewing decks
- Cafés and dining facilities
- Wi-Fi services on many sailings
The crossing is often treated as an experience rather than simply a transfer between islands.
Should I book the ferry in advance?
Yes.
Ferry sailings can sell out, particularly during:
- Summer holidays
- Easter
- Public holiday weekends
- School holiday periods
Booking early helps secure your preferred sailing times and ensures your itinerary runs smoothly.
Is it worth visiting both islands?
For most first-time visitors, absolutely.
The North Island offers highlights such as Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park and Hawke's Bay.
The South Island is known for destinations such as Abel Tasman National Park, Kaikōura, Mount Cook National Park, Wānaka, Queenstown and Milford Sound.
For travellers with two weeks or more available, experiencing both islands often provides the best overall introduction to New Zealand.