Moving Between the North and South Island: The Complete Guide
Thinking about moving between the North and South Island? You’re in good company. Whether it’s a new job in Christchurch, a fresh start in Dunedin, a move to the capital or a move back north to be closer to family, inter-island moves are some of the most common long-distance moves in Aotearoa. And the question we hear most is: how does it actually work?
The short answer is that it’s simpler than it sounds when you have the right team behind you. New Zealand Movers been moving Kiwis around the country since 1982, and in this guide we take you through how an inter-island move works, from your first quote to the moment your furniture arrives. We also cover what to keep with you, how to look after your car and your pets, and how to plan when your lease or settlement date is fixed.
Ready to get moving? Get a FREE no obligation moving quote online or call 0800 000 022.
How an Inter-Island Move Works, Step by Step
Every move is a little different, but most North Island to South Island moves follow the same five stages.
- Get your quote. Tell us where you’re moving from and to, roughly what’s going, and the date you need to be in. For a quick estimate, our 60 Second Fast Quote covers moves from or within Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury and Otago. For a firm price, request a FREE no obligation moving quote and we’ll take it from there.
- Pack. Pack yourself or let our team take care of it with our packing services. Either way, label every box by room and keep a list of anything fragile or high value.
- Collection. Our crew arrives at your door, protects your furniture and loads everything up. Our fleet of super-sized furniture trucks can accommodate all sizes of households in a single journey.
- The journey. Your belongings travel by road and across the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton, a sailing of around three and a half hours, before continuing to your new city.
- Delivery. Our crew delivers to your new address. Then it’s time to put the kettle on.
Want to see how it all fits together for your home? Browse our long distance moving page or talk to the team at your nearest branch.
Cook Strait Ferry Furniture Removal: How Your Furniture Crosses
The Cook Strait is the one part of an inter-island move that nobody controls, and sailings can be affected by weather in the strait. That’s why timing varies from move to move, and why the best way to get a firm answer for your move is to speak with our team.
Fixed Lease or Settlement Date? How to Choose Your Delivery Window
Most inter-island movers have a date they can’t change: a lease ending, a settlement day or a start date at a new job. Here’s how to plan around it.
- Start with the date you can’t move, then work backwards. Tell us your collection date and the day you need to be in your new home when you request your quote.
- Talk to us early. Timing varies with the route, the season and ferry sailings, so our team will work through it with you and give you a firm answer.
- Build in a buffer. If your old place is handed back before your new keys arrive, or the other way round, secure storage is the simplest fix. We have 12 secure storage facilities around the country, so your belongings can wait safely until you’re ready.
- Don’t plan delivery for the morning of settlement. Keys are often released later in the day once funds have cleared, so give yourself a day of breathing room.
- Pack a get-through kit. Keep a few days of clothes, toiletries, bedding, basic kitchen items and chargers with you, so you’re comfortable if your furniture arrives a day or two after you do.
Our pre move checklist is a handy way to keep all the dates and jobs in one place.
What to Keep With You
Some things should never go on the truck. Keep these with you, in the car or in your hand luggage:
- ID, passports, and your tenancy, settlement and insurance paperwork
- Medications and prescriptions
- Laptops, phones, chargers and anything you need for work
- Jewellery, cash, cards and other valuables
- A few days of clothes, toiletries, towels and bedding
- Kids’ comfort items, favourite toys and pet supplies
- Keys, garage remotes and anything your new landlord or agent needs
It’s also worth knowing there are some items we can’t carry, which usually include dangerous goods such as gas bottles, fuel, paint and aerosols, and anything perishable. Pot plants and garden items can be an issue when travelling between regions, so speak to our team about these.
Your Car, Your Pets and the Ferry
Your car. If you’re driving to your new home, book your vehicle on the Cook Strait ferry as early as you can, as popular sailings fill up, especially in the school holidays and over summer. If you’re flying and need your car to follow, let us know when you request your quote and we’ll talk you through the options.
Your pets. Pets are part of the family, so they travel with you. Check your ferry operator’s pet policy when you book and book a vet check before you go. If you need a hand with boarding or transport, read our guide to moving with pets and talk to us about what we can arrange.
Your family. The crossing takes around three and a half hours, so pack snacks, games and a jumper for the deck. It’s a great way to start a new chapter.
Popular Inter-Island Routes
Auckland to Christchurch removals. One of the most popular moves in the country, and a big change of pace: from the Supercity to the Garden City. Our Auckland and Christchurch teams look after each end of the journey. Moving to Canterbury? Our guides to what you need to know about moving to Christchurch and the top suburbs in Christchurch are a good place to start.
Wellington to Christchurch movers. The shortest road leg, and the most direct way to cross the Cook Strait. Our Wellington and Christchurch branches can help you plan the whole move.
Heading further south? Moving to Dunedin from Auckland or Wellington follows the same steps, with a longer road leg at the end. Our Dunedin team will be there to welcome your furniture.
Heading north? Moving from the South Island up to Wellington or Auckland? Everything in this guide works in reverse. If you’re considering the capital, see why move to Wellington.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an inter-island move take? Every move is different. The route, the time of year, the date you need to be in and the ferry schedule all play a part, so the best way to get a firm answer is to speak with our team.
How much does it cost to move between the North and South Island? The cost depends on how much you’re moving, the route, any extras such as packing or storage, and the time of year. Try our 60 Second Fast Quote for an instant estimate or request a FREE no obligation moving quote for a firm price.
Do I need to book the ferry myself? You only need to book your own sailing for you, your car and your pets. Speak to our team about how your belongings will travel.
Can I put my things in storage if my new home isn’t ready? Yes. We have 12 secure storage facilities around New Zealand, so your belongings can wait safely until you’re ready. Read more about our storage options.
Is my furniture insured while it travels? We offer a range of moving insurance options so your belongings are covered in transit. Talk to us about the right cover for your move.
Can you pack for me? Yes. Our team can take care of your packing for you. See our packing services.
Ready to Make the Move?
Whether you’re heading north or south, we’ve been getting Kiwis where they’re going since 1982, and we’re proud to have been recognised by Canstar Blue for most satisfied customers in 2024. We’re 100% Kiwi owned and operated, with branches in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin, so we’ve got both islands covered. Every move is different, so the best way to get a firm answer on timing and price is to talk to our team.
Get a FREE no obligation moving quote online or call 0800 000 022.
