Due to the regular influx of independent travellers each year New Zealand has a well established backpacker transport infrastructure. The main method people use is bus or car as railways are limited.
:: COACH & BUS
There are three main ways of travelling on coach in New Zealand. The first is using an A -> B type service which will basically transport you between destinations at the lowest cost. Second is on a coach tour which normally comes with a package including accommodation and activities and gives the advantage of guaranteed travel. The third option is a backpacker hop on hop off bus pass. These are usually valid for a year and allow you to choose when you travel and allows you to get off and stay in places you like. For more details about these options including pros and cons please see our transport article.
:: CAR & CAMPERVAN
New Zealand seems to have as many rental companies as it does sheep so you will find prices competitive and good value. Make sure you shop around and try and go with a company you have had recommended. Remember, you must be over 21 to hire a car. For more details see our renting a car article. Buying a car is also a viable option for travellers due to the low price of imports and the cheap insurance available. As you'll see on our notice board there are always some for sale! For details see our Buying a Car article or see our campervan article.
:: FLIGHTS
Air New Zealand is now the only internal airline within New Zealand apart from the small outfits that you fly you between the islands. Prices have dropped dramatically over the last couple of years making it a viable option for travellers short of time.
Compared to other modes of backpacker transport the railways are limited in New Zealand. The lines basically go straight from Auckland to Christchurch with little else to offer except the route from Christchurch to Greymouth. However they can be a cost effective option for moving between the three major cities.
The Interislander ferry is a very popular way to travel between the North and South islands. This allows foot passengers and cars to cross the Cook Strait.
There are three main ways of travelling on coach in New Zealand. The first is using an A -> B type service which will basically transport you between destinations at the lowest cost. Second is on a coach tour which normally comes with a package including accommodation and activities and gives the advantage of guaranteed travel. The third option is a backpacker hop on hop off bus pass. These are usually valid for a year and allow you to choose when you travel and allows you to get off and stay in places you like. For more details about these options including pros and cons please see our 
New Zealand seems to have as many rental companies as it does sheep so you will find prices competitive and good value. Make sure you shop around and try and go with a company you have had recommended. Remember, you must be over 21 to hire a car. For more details see our 
