I am going back to New Zealand to travel again lucky me I guess. The main problem is figuring out what to do for transport when I am there.
These are our plans for NZ. We will be camping at least 70% of the time this is a important factor as we will need somewhere to store our kit.
We will want to see the North and South Island fully I have figured out the mileage and by my calculations it is 3200 or so from Auckland to Cape Regina to Invercargill and back I know this is ambitious but what to do.
I have priced cars $700 for 35 days and fuel should work out the same $700 making the transport cost $700 each.
I would like to hear from people that have driven around NZ, should we get the bus?
Thoughts and Comments Appreciated
Reply to this If you were here for longer than 35 days I'd suggest buying a car then selling it before you leave, but for a month isnt really worth it. I dont know how much bus tickets are - were you thinking magic bus or kiwi experience or whatever they are? Or Intercity? Having a car will definitely take you to many more places than a bus. What time of year are you coming? Have you thought about camper van hire instead? Plenty of places to free camp if you are sensible, careful and clean up after yourselves.
Reply to this If you're planning on camping then definately get a car - either buy or hire with one of the local NZ companies. The big international care hire companies are more expensive but there are a number of local companies that have slightly older cars that tend to be more reasonable. I've travelled using the bus and car out there and if I had a choice I'd definately drive - the attraction of NZ is the scenery and the outdoor life. You'll have a more amazing time if you're not experiencing it all with your nose pressed to a bus window. Also if you hire a car try dropping it off in Wellington and picking a new one up in Picton - it's cheaper to cross as a foot passenger than with a car.
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