For most visitors, getting to Christchurch involves multiple forms of transportation.  In the exception of commuting from areas already in New Zealand’s South island, it is necessary to fly, travel by ferry, drive, or a combination of the three. 

            The Christchurch_CHC  International Airport is the countries second busiest airport.  Numerous airlines from around the world make regular, daily flights into this location, including Air NZ, Emirates, Qantas , Pacific Blue and more. There is a $25NZD departure tax for all passengers 12 yrs of age and over which is payable at a bank inside the airport on the day of departure.

            The most visited airport in all of New Zealand is the Auckland_AKL ( Jean Batten )  International Airport (located on the north island), and chances are that flights to this city will be less expensive than to Christchurch.  If flying into Auckland, domestic flights to Christchurch are available on Air NZ and Qantas. 

            Many visitors choose to fly into Auckland and then drive down to Christchurch.  Because of the Cook Strait, this journey cannot be done entirely by car, so taking a ferry is necessary.  Taking the ferry from the north to the south island of New Zealand can be a great experience, assuming that sections of choppy ocean swells aren’t too bothersome.  There are a few options as far as ferry services are concerned, The Interislander being the most frequently taken.  This ferry docks at the South Island town of Pictin, which is a full day’s drive from Christchurch.