[nicaukids]

Hiya

Recce trip looming fast - 7 days to go.. 7 days of sorrow .. :laugh
We've decided not to pre-book ferry crossing, but I'm now wondering if this is the right thing to do?

We're looking to cross from Welly to Picton on or around Monday 4th June in a 6 berth campervan.
Online cost is aprox $430 o/w... It's low season so I was wondering if it's cheaper to book/buy locally - Does anyone know?

Also - isn't there a bank holiday soon and are campsites likely to be a bit busier - or is it not the season for locals ;)

Looking forward to your helpful replies

[sizzlingbadger]

4th June is Queen's Birthday (Bank holiday) here so I would avoid the ferry crossing that weekend, that's why it's probably coming out a bit more expensive.

You won't get it any cheaper by booking last minute in fact as all the cheap tickets go you'll end up paying more.

Check out Bluebridge as well but sometimes they can in fact be more expenisve than the interislander.

I would probably get the Queen's Birthday weekend booked up. Although I don't think it's ever that busy, a lot of people go away to their baches that weekend. But it may pay to enquire or book just in case the place you were hoping to stay has a rush.

[sarahw]

I'd definitely recommend to book in advance for the ferry - you just never know if there's an event on in Welly/SI which means that the ferries will be stacked the time you want to go... Plus as Sizzling Badger says it gets more expensive as it gets closer to the travel date.

Would book up campsite for Queen's birthday weekend just incase - better that than not being able to get in... Kiwis do go away en masse on bank holidays. Have a great trip!

[suebeenz]

By the way, about buying online ferry tickets overseas, you might manage to save some bucks by reading this thread:

http://www.emigratenz.org/forum/showthread.php?t=9007&page=2&highlight=cheaper

Good luck!

[nicaukids]

Thank you guys for your advice... Convinced the OH to pre-book and just had a quick look.

Suebeenz... you're FAB :laugh

Got laptop set up with NZ Time & Kids steam engine (UK time) on interislander ... and I CAN SAVE NZD 90 !!!

All 3 options are changeable... only difference appears to be cancellation charges. 100%, 50% fee or full refund option.

Thanks again from one very happy bunny.

[suebeenz]

That's great news you saved some money. $90. That's a lot of chocolate bars. Once you get here, please send your UK chocolate to ......
:p

Have fun on your trip! You guys will have an adventure I'm sure. :yes