Getting Here
Located at the top of the South Island, Nelson Tasman is highly connected to other parts of the country and the world. Whether you prefer to take a scenic drive, sit back and relax on a bus, fly with one of our many airlines, or catch a ferry from Wellington, various transport options are available to suit your travel needs. Our Kiwi Journeys office is centrally located in Nelson CBD.
Nelson
By Sea: Begin your adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Wellington to Picton. With Interislander or Bluebridge, you'll cross the stunning Cook Strait. From Picton, it's a picturesque 2.5-hour drive to Nelson, winding through breathtaking landscapes along State Highway 6.
By Car: Hit the open road! From Christchurch, journey north on State Highway 1 to Blenheim, then head west on State Highway 6. This 6-hour drive takes you through rolling vineyards and majestic mountains. If you're starting from Picton, it's just a 2.5-hour drive through captivating scenery. For those coming from the West Coast, the 4 to 5-hour drive from Westport or Greymouth on State Highway 6 is a feast for the eyes with coastal and alpine vistas.
By Plane: Fly into Nelson with ease! Nelson Airport offers frequent flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, operated by Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Sounds Air. Once you land, you're just a quick 15-minute drive from the city centre, where our Kiwi Journeys office is located. Taxis, shuttles, and rental cars await to whisk you away.
If you are flying into Nelson:
Kiwi Journeys are happy to pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your accommodation in Nelson or to our Nelson Depot.
1 x Complimentary airport pick up and drop off per group (kindly supply us with your flight details when booked)
By Bus: Sit back and enjoy the ride with Intercity or other bus services connecting Nelson with Christchurch, Picton, and the West Coast. The journey might take longer, but the comfort and stunning stops make it worthwhile. Our Kiwi Journeys office is just 350m from the Nelson Bus Station once you arrive.
If you are arriving in your own vehicle:
Our Kiwi Journeys Depot (where you start your tour) is located in the Nelson city centre, and we are unable to provide secure long-term parking. Please make your own arrangements at Nelson Airport - Value Parking to store your vehicle. We are happy to offer one complimentary pick-up and drop-off per group from the Nelson Airport.
Turn it into a road Trip!
Why not turn your adventure into a road trip? Rent a car from Touchdown Rentals in Christchurch or (Queenstown) and drive along the scenic Highway 73. Travel through the stunning Arthur's Pass to reach the breathtaking West Coast. After enjoying the West Coast Wilderness Trail with Kiwi Journeys, continue your journey down the coast, taking in the sights of Franz Josef, and then on to Wanaka and Queenstown, where you can conveniently return your car.
Let our reservation staff know at the time of booking, and we can arrange for your rental car ready for your arrival. When booked with us, you'll receive a 10% discount off their standard website prices.
Arriving on the picturesque West Coast offers a variety of transportation options to ensure your journey is as convenient and enjoyable as possible.
West Coast
Great Journeys – TranzAlpine Train: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine train, renowned as one of the world's most spectacular train journeys. Covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) in just under 5 hours, the journey from Christchurch to Greymouth promises breathtaking vistas. This option is particularly suitable for travellers planning to explore the West Coast Wilderness Trail either before or after their trip. For an added indulgence, opt for the Scenic Plus package and treat yourself to a delightful meal and beverages as you relax and soak in the scenery.
Self-Drive: Embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive from Christchurch, winding your way through the mesmerizing Arthurs Pass.
Air New Zealand Domestic Flights: Enjoy daily non-stop flights operated by Air New Zealand from Christchurch to Hokitika, with seamless connections across the New Zealand domestic network. With two flight operators per day, flying to Hokitika offers both convenience and flexibility.
Kiwi Journeys Services: For added convenience, Kiwi Journeys can arrange pick-up or drop-off services from the Greymouth Train Station and Hokitika Airport. Simply inform us at the time of booking to ensure a seamless transition to your destination.
Nestled in the heart of Central Otago, Cromwell is a picturesque town offering a blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-class wineries. Whether you're coming from within New Zealand or from overseas, getting to Cromwell is a breeze with multiple transport options available. Here's a guide to help you plan your journey.
Central Otago
By Air
Flying to Queenstown or Dunedin: The closest airports to Cromwell are Queenstown Airport (approximately 50 minutes' drive) and Dunedin Airport (around 2.5 hours' drive). Both airports offer regular domestic and international flights, making them convenient entry points to the region.
By Car
Driving is a fantastic way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Central Otago. Whether you're coming from Queenstown, Dunedin, or further afield, the journey is part of the adventure.
From Queenstown: Take State Highway 6 and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Dunstan and the rugged mountains. The drive takes about 50 minutes. Kiwi Journeys offers a pickup/drop-off service for an additional fee. By Prior arrangement.
From Dunedin: Head South on State Highway 1, then switch to State Highway 8 at Milton. The drive, lasting around 2.5 hours, offers diverse scenery from coastal views to rolling hills.
From Christchurch: For those starting from Christchurch, the drive to Cromwell takes around 5 hours via State Highway 1 and State Highway 8. This route takes you through the Canterbury Plains and the dramatic landscapes of the Mackenzie Basin.
Car Rentals: Kiwi Journeys' preferred partner is Touch Down Rentals, which offers convenient and quality rentals. Let our reservation staff know at the time of booking, and we can arrange for your rental car ready for your arrival. When booked with us, you'll receive a 10% discount off their standard website prices.
By Shuttle
For a more direct route without the need to rent a car, consider booking a shuttle service. Kiwi Journeys can offer a shuttle service from Queenstown Airport or local accommodation, for an additional fee. By prior arrangement.
By Bus
Several bus companies operate routes to Cromwell from major cities and towns in the South Island. This is a convenient and cost-effective option if you prefer not to drive.