Interislander has been connecting New Zealand across Cook Strait for over 60 years. We are the original Cook Strait Ferry. We sail between the North and South Islands (Wellington and Picton) every day, carrying passengers and freight. Along with the breathtaking views, enjoy our locally sourced cuisine, cinemas, free kids activities and premium lounges.
What's new?
Announcement on future ferries for Cook Strait
KiwiRail welcomes today’s announcement on the next steps for new Cook Strait ferries and the certainty it gives to Interislander’s regular passengers and freight customers.
Interislander Connection - we are joining with Te Araroa!
Interislander and Te Araroa announce a new partnership to link the islands for Te Araroa walkers.
Interislander has gone cashless
We no longer accept cash at our terminals and onboard ferries. You can use debit and credit cards via eftpos or payWave, as well as via smartphones with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Getting to your Interislander ferry
Arrival and departures
Get today's sailing schedule with departure and arrival times. Sailing time is 3.5 hours.
Wellington
Our Kaiwharawhara terminal is located between the central city and State Highway 1 - just five minutes from the heart of the city.
Waitohi Picton
You’ll find vehicle check-in on Lagoon Road, accessible via Kent Street. Foot passenger check in is via the terminal on Auckland Street, a short walk from Picton town centre.
35 years of maritime magic
Nigel Kennedy is back this summer
Kaitaki's onboard magician
This summer, Nigel Kennedy marks 35 years of performing to young, and not so young, audiences on our Interislander ferries. He regularly meets parents who remember being mesmerised by his magic when they were children.
Every show is a bit different and ensuring there is something for everyone, including a bit of comedy. Keep an eye out for Nigel on Kaitaki.
Promotions
Group discounts
Travelling with 12 or more? Give our team a call to talk about our group discounts 0800 878 898
Family discounts
When you book as a family, we automatically apply our best family discount ferry rates for you to choose from.
AA Member Discount
As a New Zealand AA Member you can take advantage of our Interislander Cook Strait ferry discount and save money on your crossing.
Student Discount
Heading away to university with a car full of stuff? Going home for the holidays? Fancy a break with friends? Then grab a special Interislander Cook Strait ferry student deal!