How are the two big islands of New Zealand connected (is there some long long bridge)?

KIWI IN OZ

The two islands are connected by ferries and aeroplanes. Sadly there is no big bridge. We Kiwis would that there was but alas Cook Strait which divides the two main islands is one of the most dangerous stretches of water anywhere and a bridge simply could not be built there. even if it could with modern technology it wouldn't last long and the winds would make traversing the bridge an interesting experience to say the least. The only physical connection is the main power and telephone cables. We of the 'main land' often threaten to cut it and let the north island float away. The ferries take 3.5 hours to cross most of which is spent in the beautiful Queen Charlotte sounds of Marlborough. There have been faster ferries on the run but as far as I am aware they have stopped now as they were forced to slow down in the sounds due to the damage of the wake on the foreshore and marine life, and of course going slow is not the point of a fast ferry. If you ever get to NZ take the ferry across as it is a lovely trip, a great experience and a good rest time if driving. Dec 17 02, 3:24 AM

Charlie

Thanks for the info Kiwi, I would love to go to New Zealand...perhaps one day I will. Dec 17 02, 5:43 AM