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Tuatapere Shuttle & Transport to Rarakau Lodge

Mel's Shuttle runs flexible, door-to-door Tuatapere shuttle and transport, connecting Invercargill, Te Anau and Queenstown all the way to Rarakau Lodge.

Getting Here

Book Your Tuatapere Shuttle

Mel’s Shuttle is the local Tuatapere shuttle and transport operator, running a private door-to-door van and taxi service covering Southland and Fiordland, with flexible pickup times built around your travel plans.

  • Door-to-door shuttle
  • Flexible pickup & drop-off
  • TSL licensed taxi

Looking for a Tuatapere shuttle or transport to Rarakau Lodge and the start of the Hump Ridge Track? Mel's Shuttle is a private door-to-door shuttle and taxi service covering Southland and Fiordland, including regular runs to and from Tuatapere. Whether you're flying into Queenstown, staying in Te Anau, or based in Invercargill, Mel's Shuttle can pick you up and run you all the way to the lodge, via Tuatapere.

Running a silver 11-seater van, the service is TSL licensed and happy to carry everything from a single walker through to a full group, with a covered trailer available for larger parties and extra gear. Both your pickup and your drop-off are arranged around your travel plans, not a fixed daily timetable.

Where We Go

Invercargill, Te Anau & Queenstown ↔ Rarakau Lodge. One direct service all the way to the lodge — no transfers.

When We Go

Flexible pickup and drop-off, not a fixed timetable. No set departure — just tell us your preferred time when you book.

Luggage & Trailer

Covered trailer for larger groups. Available for parties of eight or more, so gear travels separately from passengers.

Direct or Scenic?

Rarakau Direct or Scenic Drive. Quickest run straight through, or a scenic stop for coffee and sights — your call.

Book Shuttle Now

Fill in the form below and we'll confirm your pickup by phone or email — or call us directly on +64 21 256 4993.

Rarakau DirectScenic Drive

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a shuttle to Tuatapere?

Yes — Mel's Shuttle runs a regular door-to-door Tuatapere shuttle service, connecting Invercargill, Te Anau and Queenstown to Rarakau Lodge, right at the start of the Hump Ridge Track.

What transport options are there to Tuatapere from Invercargill or Queenstown?

Mel's Shuttle is the main transport link, with flexible pickups from Invercargill, Te Anau and Queenstown all the way to Tuatapere and Rarakau Lodge. Driving yourself is also an option — see our $1 rental car relocation deals and discount rental cars.

How much luggage can I bring on the Tuatapere shuttle?

Plenty — Mel's Shuttle runs a silver 11-seater van with a covered trailer available for groups of eight or more, so packs, boots and gear travel separately from passengers.

Can I book a return trip with Mel's Shuttle?

Yes — just add a second trip when you book, whether that's a return journey or an onward leg to your next stop.

Do I have to stay at Rarakau Lodge to book Mel's Shuttle?

No — Mel's Shuttle is open to anyone, whether or not you're staying at Rarakau Lodge. You can book it directly online right here on this page.

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