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Auckland to Christchurch from $50: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Christchurch, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Christchurch: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$50 - Train, PlaneBest price
768.88 kmDistance
3h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Christchurch with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  52m
Estimated price
$50-186
Recommended
route map
Distance: 768.88 km
Duration: 3h 52m

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Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$107-267
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
22h  27m
Estimated price
$108-173
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
15h  13m
Estimated price
$275-384
Company
various
Train
Drive
Average Duration
22h  6m
Estimated price
$349-575
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Traveling From Auckland to Christchurch

The journey from Auckland to Christchurch offers a striking contrast between Auckland's vibrant urban culture and Christchurch's serene botanical gardens and heritage architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Christchurch

Christchurch features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Cashmere
• Stunning views of the Port Hills
• Close to beautiful walking trails
Addington
• Renowned for its lively café scene
• Hosts various events and festivals
Sumner
• Quaint coastal village atmosphere
• Perfect for beach lovers and surfers

Best Times To Visit Christchurch's Attractions

Planning your visits to Christchurch's attractions can enhance your experience.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Visit during early morning for peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.
Canterbury Museum
Weekday afternoons offer a quieter experience to explore exhibits.
Quake City
Late afternoons tend to be less busy, allowing for deeper engagement.

Christchurch Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it essential for travelers to consider seasonal weather patterns. The best times to visit are during the spring and summer months when conditions are mild, allowing for outdoor exploration and vibrant local events.

Dining Recommendation in Christchurch

Try the green-lipped mussels at Fiddlesticks, where vibrant local ingredients merge with rustic charm, creating a distinct atmosphere that stands apart from Auckland’s cosmopolitan dining scene. The dish’s fresh, briny flavors encapsulate the coastal bounty of the region, offering a taste experience that celebrates Christchurch’s unique culinary identity.

Auckland - Christchurch operators

Explore transport companies operating between Auckland and Christchurch, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+64 9 366 6400
Website
at.govt.nz

Train from Britomart Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
NZ$2-3
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Wellington

Average Duration
10h 40m
Estimated price
NZ$130-170
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
NZ$100-270
Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
NZ$60-220

Plane from Hamilton Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
NZ$95-280
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Auckland Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
NZ$35-200
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$45-70

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
NZ$28-45
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
NZ$110-140
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$30-50

Auckland to Christchurch: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Auckland and Christchurch offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan your fuel stops smartly; there are major gas stations available in towns like Hamilton, Taupo, and Ashburton, with prices typically around NZD 2.20 to NZD 2.50 per liter.
• Be aware that once you arrive in Christchurch, city parking can range from NZD 10 to NZD 25 per day, and make sure to check for restricted traffic zones in the central business district to avoid fines.
• As you approach Christchurch, use navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates, and remember that New Zealand drives on the left side of the road; adhere to speed limits which can vary from 50 km/h in urban areas to 100 km/h on highways.
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train service from Auckland to Christchurch is provided by KiwiRail's Scenic Journeys. Onboard catering services include a café car where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages, including local wines and coffees. Be sure to check their menu before your trip, as offerings may change seasonally.
• KiwiRail offers several seating options: First Class with spacious seats and complimentary refreshments; Business Class with comfortable seats and access to the lounge area; and Economy Class, which offers standard seating. For the best views of New Zealand's stunning landscape, consider booking a seat in First or Business Class.
• Upon arrival in Christchurch, you can expect to find facilities like restrooms, though showers might not be available. The train station does not offer luggage storage services, so plan accordingly. If you need local transport, the fastest way to reach the city center is by taking the number 5 bus, which departs frequently from in front of the station.
🛫 Prepare for a quick and convenient journey from Auckland Airport to Christchurch Airport, with the direct flight taking approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Both Jetstar and Air New Zealand provide flights for this route, offering flexibility in timings for travelers.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Christchurch Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider checking in online through the Jetstar or Air New Zealand websites to save time at Auckland Airport, as both airlines often offer self-service kiosks for quick boarding passes.
• Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, expect to find clear signage for customs and baggage claim; keep your boarding pass handy as it can help expedite your processing through the arrival areas, especially during busy hours.
• Taxi fares from Christchurch Airport to the city center typically range from NZD 30 to NZD 50; you can also use the local rideshare apps like Uber for potentially cheaper options, with pickup readily available from the designated areas.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Christchurch.

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The distance between Auckland and Christchurch is approximately 769.3 km. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By taking a train to Auckland and then flying, it takes about 3 hours and 50 minutes to reach Christchurch.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Auckland to Christchurch is by taking a train to Auckland and then flying to Christchurch. This option typically costs between $50 and $200 and takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.
The best way to travel from Auckland to Christchurch without a car is by taking a combination of train and car ferry. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $190 and $370. You can take a train from Auckland to Wellington, then hop on the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton, and finally take another train from Picton to Christchurch.
The flight between Auckland and Christchurch typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. This direct flight is the quickest way to travel between the two cities. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability. On average, the flight cost can range from around $100 to $300 USD.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Christchurch. With over 597 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of prices to fit their budget. Prices for hotels start at $40 per night, ensuring that there are options for every traveler.