By bus
By bus
Buses are a cheap way to get around to the main centers of the South Island. There are a range of types of services, from a luxury coach service to minivan shuttles. Shuttles which service a local area can be found in the regions and towns which they service.
Knight Rider
Evening/night bus service from Christchurch to Invercargill via Dunedin
West Coast Shuttle
Daily service departs Greymouth 8 am via Arthur's Pass and Christchurch airport and city. Depart Christchurch at 3pm and airport about 3.15 via Arthurs Pass to Greymouth. Comfortable travel at affordable price, all coaches have on board toilet
Newmans Coach Lines
High quality tourist coach linking Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers.
By train
Two standout train routes are on the South Island. The Picton - Christchurch Tranzcoastal (http://www.railnewzealand...) begins traveling through the Marlborough wine region before hugging the Kaikoura Coast and crossing the Canterbury Plains. The Christchurch - Greymouth Tranzalpine (http://www.railnewzealand...) crosses the Southern Alps at Arthurs Pass. Rated as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
By car
Roads in the South Island vary in quality and traffic, but as long as they are treated with respect they serve you well. Rental cars are available in most sizable towns. The best range and hence lowest prices are in Picton off the interislander ferry and Christchurch.