Road Trip to South Island Day 2 + Wellington-Picton Ferry Guide
đ Day 2: Ohakune â Wellington Early departure from Ohakune, winding through mountain roads with stunning lookouts (perfect for quick photo stopsâjust watch for traffic!). Passed a desolate, windswept beachâunexpectedly beautiful in its rawness. Wellington Highlights: Te Papa Museum: Massive & interactive (way better than Aucklandâs!). Skipped most MÄori exhibits but was moved to tears by the WWI Gallipoli exhibitionâa visceral tribute to ANZAC soldiers. ("Lest we forget.") Rooftop views at Te Papaâs outdoor deck + Jay Chouâs Old Bank photo spot nearby. â´ď¸ Wellington â Picton Ferry Tips (First-Timer Approved!) 1ď¸âŁ Booking: Vehicle type matters! Sedans = easy; my MPV required selecting "VAN" + entering length. Flexible ticket (refundable/time-changeable) saved meâIâd entered the wrong date! Book early! Last-minute = stuck with the 20:30 sailing (arrives ~00:30âhotels book up!). 2ď¸âŁ Check-in: Address: Wellington Interislander Vehicle Check-in Arrived 2.5hrs early (18:00)âno queues yet. Staff opened at 18:34, assigned lane #14. Pro tip: Toilets available in the holding area! 3ď¸âŁ Boarding: Follow traffic onto the shipâcrew directs parking. Best views: If Deck 10 is closed, try Deck 7âs open area for fjord photos! â ď¸ Key Notes â MPV/oversized vehicles: Double-check measurements when booking. â Overnight arrivals: Pre-book Picton accommodationâmidnight check-ins are rough! â Pack dinner/snacks: Onboard food is mediocre. #NZRoadTrip #InterislanderFerry #WellingtonToPicton #SouthIslandAdventure