Best way to see New Zealand

Travel in New Zealand can be a unique adventure for many travelers not accustomed to wide open spaces and seemingly endless grand open landscapes.

Overland travel, either by train, bus or renting a car, is by far the preferred way to see New Zealand among travellers. These forms of transportation take much longer than flying, but they allow the traveler to experience the majestic mountains, great plains and the natural beauty first-hand. Ferry services are available to transport you between NZ’s North Island and South Island.

Unfortunately, New Zealand’s options in bus and the train category are limited. In addition the speed and convenience of these conveyances do not begin to compare with the modern public transportation systems in places like Europe. However, they will get you from here to there.

Since most of the large commercial carriers don’t go to every destination popular among backpackers, a number of alternative backpacker style transportation companies exist. These backpacker tours will transport you to the national parks and overland to the more unique destinations.

Every once in a while some intrepid traveler asks about hitchhiking. The overwhelming popular opinion is that it’s not advised. If you’re backpacking a far better way to arrange for rides is through hostel or university bulletin boards.