WeMove makes inter-island relocations easy, reliable, and well-organised. With years of experience handling North-to-South Island moves, our team manages every part of your relocation, from packing and ferry coordination to transport and delivery.
Our professional movers, modern trucks, and real-time GPS tracking ensure your belongings reach their destination safely. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, WeMove makes the journey simple and stress-free.
Get your free quote today and let us handle your Auckland to Christchurch move with care.
Key Takeaways
- Distance: Around 1,080 km (road + Cook Strait ferry crossing).
- Full Services: Packing, ferry coordination, storage, junk removal, and delivery.
- Typical Cost Range: $2,300 – $3,600 depending on load size and services.
- Booking Tip: Book 4–6 weeks ahead to secure ferry space and truck availability.
- Insurance: Transit and ferry insurance available.
- Community Support: WeMove donates to Christchurch City Mission after every major move.
Our Services for Auckland to Christchurch Moves
WeMove handles complete residential and office relocations between the North and South Islands. Our trained team ensures each item is packed, loaded, and delivered with precision.
Packing and Unpacking
We use sturdy boxes, wrapping, and labelling for safe ferry and road transport. Full and partial packing services are available depending on your budget and schedule.
Specialty Item Moving
We transport pianos, artworks, spa pools, and fragile items using professional lifting gear and protective materials. Extra care is taken during ferry handling and transfers.
If your Christchurch property isn’t ready yet, WeMove offers secure short- or long-term storage in monitored facilities.
Junk Removal
Save time before or after your move by letting us remove old furniture, boxes, or packaging. We dispose of unwanted items responsibly.
Inter-Island Coordination and Ferry Logistics
WeMove manages the entire route — scheduling ferries, timing transfers, and monitoring each stage for an effortless experience across the Cook Strait.
We provide WINZ-approved quotes for clients eligible for Work and Income relocation assistance.
Cost of Moving from Auckland to Christchurch
Your moving cost depends on load size, ferry timing, access, and service options. Here’s an overview:
| Move Type | Estimated Cost | Includes |
| 1–2 Bedroom Home | $2,300 – $2,700 | Small truck + ferry + movers |
| 3–4 Bedroom Home | $2,800 – $3,200 | Medium truck + ferry + packing |
| Large Home or Office | $3,300 – $3,600 + | Full service + storage/junk removal |
Additional charges may apply for stairs, long carries, or ferry delays. Contact us for a custom quote tailored to your needs.
Appointment
Let’s Make Your Move Stress-Free!
Ready to get started? We’re here to help with all your moving needs, big or small. Whether you’re relocating your home, office, or need a specialized service, our team of experts is just a click away.
Testimonials
Feedback from our customers
Thanks Jas
We had a niggly move, from a 3 bedroom place in Ashburton, into a two bedroom apartment in central Christchurch with some tricky access and stair work (sorry crew) but they knocked it out in good time, at a good price, and with good care - 10/10 will be using them again next time we move.
Step-by-Step Moving Process
- Free Consultation – Discuss your move and receive an initial estimate.
- Personalised Quote – Get a detailed, written quote with ferry costs included.
- Packing and Preparation – Our team packs and labels your items safely.
- Loading and Transport – Goods are loaded securely, ferried, and tracked in transit.
- Delivery and Unloading – Everything is placed where you want it in your new Christchurch home.
- Final Check and Support – We confirm that every item arrives safely before completing the move.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Auckland to Christchurch Move
Long-distance, inter-island moves require planning. Here are practical tips from WeMove’s experts to make your relocation efficient and worry-free.
Book Early a Professional Moving Company:
Book your move at least 4–6 weeks in advance. This guarantees ferry space and preferred dates, especially during busy summer months. Early booking also lets movers inspect access points and coordinate timing across both islands.
Get Quality Packing Materials and Put as Much in Boxes as You Can:
Use heavy-duty boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. Group items by room and mark fragile boxes clearly. Because your belongings will travel by ferry and highway, sturdy packing prevents movement and moisture damage.
Label All the Boxes:
Label boxes with contents, destination room, and handling notes such as “Fragile” or “This Side Up.” Number each box for tracking. Clear labels make unloading faster and avoid confusion at delivery.
Before packing, remove items you no longer need. Sell, donate, or recycle old furniture, décor, or kitchenware. Fewer items mean less cost and easier unpacking in Christchurch.
Book the Right Truck:
Choose a truck based on your home size, small (3–5 m³) for apartments, medium (10–15 m³) for homes, or large (20 m³ +) for big moves. Mention heavy or oversized items like pianos when requesting your quote.
Protect Against Weather:
Weather conditions can shift quickly along both islands. Cover furniture with plastic wraps or tarps and secure boxes against humidity. Keep extra blankets handy for wet conditions during loading or unloading.
Arrange Transit Insurance:
Ask your moving company about transit and ferry insurance. It covers damage or delays during ferry transfers or long road travel. It’s a low-cost safeguard for valuable belongings.
Plan for Pets and Plants:
If you’re bringing pets or plants, prepare carriers and ventilated boxes. Avoid leaving them in the truck during ferry crossing and provide water breaks during the long trip.
Update Address and Utilities:
Notify electricity, internet, and postal providers before moving. Update your mailing and billing details to ensure smooth service once you arrive in Christchurch.
Pack an Essentials Box:
Keep a small bag or box with essentials, toiletries, chargers, tools, and snacks, for your first night. It helps you settle in comfortably after the long journey.
Why Choose WeMove for Your Auckland to Christchurch Relocation
- ⭐ 5.0 Google Rating with 80 + reviews.
- Locally owned and operated moving company.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees.
- Experienced, friendly team trained for inter-island moves.
- Community partnership with Christchurch City Mission.
- Flexible booking and custom quotes.
- WINZ quotes available for eligible clients.
How to Choose a Moving Company
Join hundreds of New Zealanders who’ve trusted WeMove for inter-island relocations. Here’s how to choose the right mover for your Auckland to Christchurch journey.
Assess Your Relocation Needs:
Identify your move’s size, timing, and required services, such as packing, storage, or ferry logistics. A clear list helps movers prepare accurate quotes and allocate resources efficiently.
Research Multiple Companies:
Look for reputable NZ movers with inter-island experience. Compare at least three to five options for pricing, reliability, and ferry coordination. Check local listings and online forums for honest feedback.
Check Reviews and Ratings:
Read customer feedback on Google, Trade Me, or Facebook. Prioritise companies with more than 50 reviews and an average rating above 4.5. Look for mentions of punctuality, clear communication, and careful handling.
Verify Accreditations and Licenses:
Ensure your mover is licensed for both North and South Island operations. Accredited movers follow strict safety and insurance standards, reducing risk during ferry transfer and long hauls.
Get Detailed Quotes:
Ask for written quotes that include all fees, ferry, packing, storage, and access charges. Provide the same details to each company to compare fairly. Always check for weekend or peak-season surcharges.
Inquire About Insurance Coverage:
Accidents are rare but possible on inter-island routes. Ask about transit insurance and confirm high-value or self-packed items are included. This ensures protection from Auckland all the way to Christchurch.