Ferry to and from New Zealand

Simply choose your departure and arrival ports, select your travel date, and compare the available operators. Once you’ve picked your preferred sailing, you can book your ferry tickets securely online. You will receive an instant confirmation email with check-in instructions and your e-ticket (where supported).

There are currently 6 operators servicing New Zealand, including major carriers like Bluebridge, Interislander, Stena Line. Availability depends on the specific route and time of year.

As a general rule, foot passengers should arrive 45–60 minutes before departure. If you are traveling with a vehicle, we recommend arriving 90–120 minutes early to allow for boarding procedures. Always check the specific check-in rules on your booking confirmation.

While facilities vary by vessel, most ferries in New Zealand offer comfortable seating lounges, restrooms, and snack bars or restaurants. On longer crossings, you may have the option to book private cabins, premium Wi-Fi, or reserved seating.

In most cases the routes are vehicle-capable. However, space for cars, motorbikes, and campervans is limited and sells out quickly during peak season. Use our search tool to filter for vehicle-friendly sailings to see live pricing and availability.

Most operators allow pets, though specific rules vary by route. Some vessels require pets to stay in a vehicle, while others offer designated pet areas or pet-friendly cabins. Be sure to book your pet space in advance and carry all necessary travel documentation.

Ferry travel can occasionally be affected by weather or operational conditions. If your sailing is disrupted, follow the instructions sent to your email or provided by the operator at the port. For time-sensitive trips, we recommend choosing earlier departures to allow for a buffer.