Kaiwharawhara Wellington Vehicle Check-In
When you are travelling with a vehicle, you can head directly to the vehicle check-in. Follow the pink signs and road markings. You don't need to go to the terminal building. Vehicle check-in closes one hour before departure.
If you are taking a vehicle on the ferry, you will be directed to the passenger vehicle marshalling yard. Follow the signs and the pink road markings.
For your safety, you will not be able to leave this area after you check in. There are amenities available including toilets, an outlet selling barista coffee with a vending machine for cold drinks and snacks, a pet exercise area and a shelter for those on motorcycles.
Directions to the Wellington terminal
The Kaiwharawhara Wellington Terminal is accessed from the Hutt Road (from the north) and Aotea Quay (from the south).
When coming from the north, you need to exit from SH1/SH2 just before the two highways meet.
To get a comprehensive guide on how to locate the terminal, please watch our driving direction videos:
To minimise delays, please have your booking details ready to present to check-in staff. Photo ID will be required for everyone in the car aged 18 years and over.
If you have stated incorrect vehicle lengths in your booking (including bike racks), you will be asked to move to the side and will have to pay extra.
Vehicle check-in procedure
- Arrive at least one hour before departure
- Follow the pink signs and road markings for passenger vehicle check-in
- Have your ticket and photo ID ready for the check-in booth attendant
- Stop at check-in booth and exchange ticket for boarding passes
- Follow marshal's instructions to boarding lane and park
- Wait for marshal's instruction to board
- Do not use mobile phones during boarding
- Once on board, follow onboard marshal's directions to park
- Once you have entered the ship, turn off headlights as they may dazzle the marshal's eyes
- Once parked, ensure your handbrake is fully engaged and your car is in "Park" for automatic vehicles or in gear for manual
- Turn off LPG tanks on campervans
- Turn off alarm and anti-tow alarm (if present)
- Lock your vehicle, ensuring all items are secure from damage or theft
- Follow the signs to the lifts and make your way to the passenger area
- Enjoy your sailing
Also note that:
- Once you have checked in, you must remain with the vehicle.
- If you wish to use the passenger terminal facilities before going to the vehicle check-in, there is very limited short-term parking outside the terminal.
- New bookings and payment of existing bookings must be completed at the passenger terminal.
- If any member of your party wishes to board as a walk-on passenger, then you must all check in at the Passenger terminal. The driver can then drive back to the vehicle check-in.
Getting to the ferry early does not mean you will be loaded first. Each sailing is loaded differently depending on factors such as how many large vehicles we are carrying to ensure the load is balanced. Follow the directions of our marshalls.
Other check-in information
Vehicle check-in for Waitohi Picton
Travelling from Picton? Get the latest check-in information.
