Rides
North Island
South Island
The country of New Zealand is split into two main islands, the North Island and the South Island. Apart from air travel, the most popular way of getting between the islands is via the Cook Strait ferry – the Cook Strait is the body of water between the North and the South Island. $20 per person, $15 per motorbike.
Requirements
| Carnet de Passage | required |
| Insurance | compulsory third party insurance |
| International driving permit | require IDP 1949 |
| Travel Visa | Electronic Travel Authority, 6 months |
Riding in NZ.
You need understandable documents.
It is also worth printing off the Constat Amiable D’accident Automobile, which is used across numerous and other countries (the downloadable one on our website has English as well as French).
A full bike license is essential.
To ride in Australia, you need a full UK bike licence, which authorises you to ride in your home country. Therefore, if you have a restricted licence in the UK, you cannot ride an unrestricted bike in Australia.
If you take your bike there, your taking your bike back.
Your bike will be registered entry into NZ and you must leave with your bike. customs officers are meticulous. If you leave the Kingdom you must have your vehicle entry papers stamped having the country. If you cross the border and intend to return, must go through the entire process again. This is to prevent vehicle smuggling.
Rules of the Road
Safety first
Always wear protective gear and ensure your motorcycle is well-maintained. Regularly check tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes. Carry spare parts and tools for minor repairs.
Navigation
Use a reliable GPS or map. Mobile phone coverage can be spotty in remote areas, so have physical maps as a backup. Inform someone about your route and expected arrival times.
Fuel and Supplies
Fuel stations can be far apart, especially in remote areas. Fill up whenever possible and carry extra fuel. Stock up on water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Enjoy the journey
Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, local culture, and hidden gems along the way. Stop at scenic lookouts, local cafes, and roadside attractions to make the most of your adventure.
A few tips while riding around NZ
In NZ, the roads are generally well-maintained. But it’s important to be prepared for various road conditions, especially if you venture off the main roads. Here are some tips to keep in mind while on the road:
General speed limits in New Zealand are set by the New Zealand government. The speed limit in each location is indicated on a nearby traffic sign or by the presence of street lighting. The limits have been posted in kilometres per hour (km/h) since 1974. Before then, when New Zealand used imperial units, maximum speeds were displayed in miles per hour (mph). Today, limits range from 6.2mph (10 km/h) to 68mph ( 10 km/h); in urban areas the default speed limit is 31mph (50 km/h).
Maps
National Geographic Adventure map £14.93
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Please note, this page was correct when written in January 2025.