WeMove makes inter-island relocation simple, affordable, and stress-free. With years of experience handling long-distance and ferry-assisted moves, our Christchurch team knows exactly what it takes to transport your belongings safely to the capital.
From packing and ferry logistics to unloading and setup, we take care of everything. Our modern trucks, GPS tracking, and professional movers make sure every item arrives in perfect condition.
Get your free quote today and start planning your Christchurch to Wellington move with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Distance: Around 440 km by road plus Cook Strait ferry crossing (approx. 10–11 hours total).
- Full Services: Packing, loading, ferry coordination, storage, and junk removal.
- Typical Cost Range: $1,800 – $3,000 depending on load and services.
- Booking Tip: Book 4–6 weeks early to confirm ferry and truck availability.
- Insurance: Transit and ferry insurance available.
- Community Support: WeMove supports Christchurch City Mission and local charities.
Our Services for Christchurch to Wellington Moves
WeMove provides full moving services for homes, apartments, and offices. Our trained team manages everything from door-to-door, ensuring an easy transition between islands.
Packing and Unpacking
We use durable materials like heavy-duty boxes, bubble wrap, and protective blankets. Choose between full or partial packing depending on your needs.
Specialty Item Moving
We move delicate and oversized items like pianos, hot tubs, and artwork. Special padding, lifting tools, and careful coordination ensure safe ferry transport.
If you need time between pickup and delivery, our secure Christchurch storage facilities provide short- and long-term options with easy access.
Junk Removal
Save time by letting us handle unwanted items. We responsibly dispose of old furniture, packaging, or household waste before or after your move.
Inter-Island Coordination and Ferry Logistics
Our team arranges ferry bookings, timing, and vehicle transfers for a seamless Cook Strait crossing, so you don’t have to worry about schedules or delays.
WINZ Quotes
We provide WINZ-approved quotes for clients eligible for Work and Income relocation assistance.
Cost of Moving from Christchurch to Wellington
Inter-island moves include both road and ferry costs, so pricing depends on volume, distance, and ferry timing. Here’s a simple guide:
| Move Type | Estimated Cost | Includes |
| 1–2 Bedroom Home | $1,800 – $2,200 | Small truck + ferry + movers |
| 3–4 Bedroom Home | $2,300 – $2,700 | Medium truck + ferry + packing |
| Large Home or Office | $2,800 – $3,000+ | Full service + storage/junk removal |
Additional charges may apply for ferry delays, stairs, or limited parking. Request your custom quote to get exact pricing.
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 – Tell us about your move and get initial guidance.
- Personalised Quote – We prepare a detailed quote with all ferry costs included.
- Packing and Preparation – Our team packs, labels, and secures items for inter-island transport.
- Loading and Transport – Items are loaded, ferried, and delivered safely.
- Delivery and Unloading – Each box is placed exactly where you want it.
- Final Check and Support – We confirm everything is complete before finishing.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Christchurch to Wellington Move
Moving between islands requires extra coordination, but with the right planning, your move can be efficient and hassle-free. Here are expert tips from our Christchurch movers.
Book Early a Professional Moving Company:
Schedule your Christchurch to Wellington move at least 4–6 weeks in advance. This ensures ferry space availability and preferred dates, especially during holidays or peak months. Early booking allows movers to assess your inventory, plan ferry logistics, and coordinate timing for smooth loading and unloading.
Get Quality Packing Materials and Put as Much in Boxes as You Can:
Use sturdy boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap for maximum protection. Group items by room to simplify unpacking later. Because your belongings will travel by road and ferry, proper packing prevents moisture and vibration damage. Aim to pack 80–90% of your items before moving day, leaving large or fragile ones for professionals.
Label All the Boxes:
Label each box with contents, destination, and special notes like “Fragile” or “This Side Up.” Include a numbering system to keep track of inventory. Clear labelling helps movers place boxes correctly in your Wellington home and makes unpacking much faster after the ferry crossing.
Go through clothes, books, and furniture before packing. Donate or sell items you don’t need to reduce moving volume and cost. Lighter loads make ferry transport simpler and minimise the risk of overloading or extra trips.
Book the Right Truck:
Choose a truck size that fits your home, small (3–5 m³) for apartments, medium (10–15 m³) for family homes, and large (20 m³ +) for multi-room houses. Mention heavy or special items when requesting your quote so the truck and ferry booking are made accurately.
Protect Against Weather:
Weather across Cook Strait can change quickly. Protect furniture and boxes with plastic covers or shrink wrap during loading and unloading. Waterproofing materials prevent moisture damage during ferry transit.
Arrange Transit Insurance:
Longer routes and ferry crossings come with more handling. Ask about transit and ferry insurance to cover accidental damage or delays. It’s a simple, affordable safeguard for your valuables.
Plan for Pets and Plants:
If you’re bringing pets or indoor plants, make arrangements before the move. Use secure carriers for pets and ventilated boxes for plants. Avoid leaving them in the moving truck during the ferry journey, and check ferry policies on live cargo.
Update Address and Utilities:
Contact your electricity, gas, and internet providers before moving day. Update your address with banks, subscriptions, and government departments to ensure uninterrupted services in Wellington.
Pack an Essentials Box:
Prepare a small bag or box with daily items, toiletries, chargers, snacks, documents, and clothes for the first night. Keep it accessible so you can settle in comfortably after arrival.
Why Choose WeMove for Your Christchurch to Wellington Relocation
- ⭐ 5.0 Google Rating with 80+ positive reviews.
- Experienced in inter-island and ferry relocations.
- Transparent pricing, all ferry fees included upfront.
- Christchurch-based, locally operated moving company.
- Friendly, reliable movers who handle belongings with care.
- Community partnerships with Christchurch City Mission.
- Flexible bookings and WINZ-approved quotes.
How to Choose a Moving Company
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who’ve trusted WeMove for long-distance and inter-island relocations. Here’s how to choose the right moving company for your Christchurch to Wellington move.
Assess Your Relocation Needs:
Start by defining your move details, size, distance, and required services such as packing, storage, or specialty item handling. List your inventory to determine if you need full-service moving or basic transport only. This ensures the company’s offer matches your exact scope and prevents last-minute costs or delays.
Research Multiple Companies:
Search for reputable New Zealand movers with experience in inter-island transport. Compare at least three to five companies for service options, availability, and route experience. You can also check directories like Yellow.co.nz or community forums such as Reddit for recommendations from other long-distance movers.
Check Reviews and Ratings:
Read customer feedback on Google, Facebook, and Trade Me to learn about reliability and service quality. Focus on companies with at least 50 reviews and an average rating above 4.5. Consistent comments about punctuality, damage-free handling, and professional behaviour are strong indicators of a reliable mover.
Verify Accreditations and Licenses:
Confirm that the company holds valid transport licenses and complies with New Zealand regulations. Memberships in recognised moving associations show professionalism and accountability. Licensed operators also follow safety standards for ferry loading, heavy lifting, and insurance compliance.
Get Detailed Quotes:
Ask for written quotes that include all fees, transport, ferry costs, packing materials, and any extras. Provide the same inventory details to each company to make a fair comparison. Check for hidden fees such as weekend surcharges or additional charges for access restrictions before making a decision.
Inquire About Insurance Coverage:
Accidents are rare, but long routes and ferry crossings add risk. Always ask about transit insurance covering loss or damage during the move. Review policy limits and exclusions, especially for self-packed or high-value items. Choosing a mover with comprehensive coverage gives peace of mind from Christchurch all the way to Wellington.
