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The
Cook Strait Crossing
The journey across
Cook Strait - which connects the North Island with the South Island of New
Zealand - is a great New Zealand experience and depending on weather conditions
can be one of the more scenic crossings in the world.
The 92km voyage takes about three hours.
The Inter-Islander is a year round passenger and car ferry service across
Cook Strait.
Interislander operates three
passenger ferries: Arahura, Aratere
and Kaitaki.
 Arahura
is a Māori word meaning "pathway to dawn". The Arahura River on the South
Island's West Coast is the country's main source of New Zealand jade (also known
as New Zealand greenstone or Pounamu). So precious was greenstone to Maori that
they called the South Island "Te Wai Pounamu" - the place of the greenstone.
Arahura can carry up to 550
passengers and has been sailing across the Cook Strait since 1984. With a bar
and food court, Arahura offers extensive food and beverage facilities designed
to suit all tastes.
The onboard facilities are equally comprehensive. Outside observation decks,
lounges, and a cinema, will make your journey across the Cook Strait a memorable
part of your holiday.
 Aratere
is a Māori word meaning "quick path". As one of the most modern, high-tech
vessels operating in New Zealand waters, not only does Aratere provide travelers
with a "quick path-way" across Cook Strait, but also a comfortable,
entertaining, safe and scenic cruise, through some of New Zealand's most
impressive landscapes.
This ship provides top quality facilities to ensure a memorable cruise.
Including a food court, bar, cinema and Club Class Lounge, the extensive onboard
facilities mean there is plenty for everyone to do on their journey through the
Marlborough Sounds. So, whether entertaining the children, or watching the
spectacular scenery pass by, your journey on the Aratere will be a memorable
part of your holiday.
 Kaitaki
is a Māori word meaning "challenger". With the capacity to carry up to 1600
passengers, it is both the largest ship in Interislander's fleet and the largest
ferry operating in New Zealand waters. Kaitaki offers a unique tourism and
travel experience.
Kaitaki provides an array of options designed to enhance your journey across the
Cook Strait. From the many observation decks, enjoy the magical scenery of the
Marlborough Sounds and Wellington's natural harbor. Or, sample local cuisine,
coffee and wines, from the many food and beverage outlets.
For children, Kaitaki offers nurseries, play areas and, during school holidays
and peak seasons, even magicians and clowns as part of your onboard
entertainment.
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