Hi Nick here. I've got a bunch of Cook Strait ferry tips and here's my first one.
Save 10%
The most reliable Cook Strait Ferry - Bluebridge
Only when you use promo code RANKERS and show your free Rankers digital membership card at check in.
We'll instantly send your Rankers card to your email address.
Tip Two
The early bird gets the worm
Those on board the boat first get the best choice of seating.
You're best to get to the ferry terminal for an early check in. You'll avoid the stress and you might end up at the front of the vehicle queue.
Once you're checked in it can take a while before you can drive aboard the ferry. Take this time to get yourselves all prepared.
Then, once you're all aboard, it's quick and easy to leave your vehicle and find a comfortable space for your journey.
Nailed it!
Tip Three
Peak season, book early / Off peak season, book late.
Peak season - Book in advance to get your chosen travel time. An early booking also means no last minute scrambling.
Shoulder season and off peak - Flexibility is your friend. Check the weather forecast around a week before you plan to book. Ideally you’ll then avoid crossing Cook Strait under a strong southerly wind and heavy seas. Spend that day elsewhere instead :)
You'll save 10% when you use promo code RANKERS with Bluebridge ferries and show your Rankers card at check in.
There's a heap more tips to share which I'll send through along with your free Rankers card. Bye for now.
Details
-
What do I get out of this deal?
Save 10% off your entire ferry booking.
Cross Cook Strait with the most reliable operator - Bluebridge.
Feel good about supporting Rankers so we can keep making Camping NZ better.
-
How can I take advantage of this opportunity?
Enter the Promo Code RANKERS at checkout when booking online with Bluebridge. Your discount is automatically applied to all passenger and vehicle fares. The promo code is valid for bookings until 31 October 2025.
Importantly, you must show your free Rankers digital membership card at the ferry terminal during check in. Otherwise full payment will be required.
If you’re not already a member then use the form to receive a free Rankers card via email.
-
What is the Cook Strait and why do I care?
Most visitors to New Zealand will cross Cook Strait by ferry. It's the water that separates New Zealand's North and South Islands. If you're planning to get between the islands you'll need either a plane or a boat. And if you're got a vehicle then you're going to need a big boat. That's where the Cook Strait ferries come in.
Roughly half the crossing is in the strait, and the remainder within the Marlborough Sounds. The journey covers 70 kilometres (43 mi) and takes about three or four hours.
-
Why did we choose Bluebridge?
Bluebridge are the most reliable carrier. There’s been ongoing maintenance and breakdown issues with the other ferry provider since Covid. Bluebridge has been solid all along.
We recommend Bluebridge as the most trusted provider - and you get a 10% discount. And Rankers will get a small kickback from Bluebridge whenever you use promo code RANKERS.
It's a no brainer!
-
What are the terms and conditions for this offer?
In order to receive your Rankers membership card you'll be agreeing to the Website User Account Terms.
To take advantage of the Bluebridge discount you'll be agreeing to the Bluebridge Discount Terms and Conditions.