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Auckland to Palmerston North from $40: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Palmerston North, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Palmerston North: 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.

$40 by busBest price
399 kmDistance
3h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Palmerston North 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  8m
Estimated price
$104-208
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
10h 
Estimated price
$40-65
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 399 km
Duration: 3h 8m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$102-366
Company
KiwiRail - Northern Explorer
Train
Average Duration
8h  35m
Estimated price
$110-1040
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  48m
Estimated price
$197-313
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$1041-1042

Best Neighbourhoods in Palmerston North

Palmerston North offers diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

The Square
• Central hub for cafes and restaurants.
• Features beautiful parks and public art.
Terrace End
• Close to shops and amenities.
• Family-friendly with great schools nearby.
West End
• Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
• Unique cultural attractions and galleries.

Best Times To Visit Palmerston North's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience in Palmerston North.

Te Manawa
Visit early weekdays to enjoy quieter exhibits and fewer crowds.
Victoria Esplanade
Early mornings offer peaceful walks and beautiful sunrise views.
Palmerston North City Library
Afternoon visits are ideal for various programs and fewer visitors.

Palmerston North Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palmerston North enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Visiting in spring and autumn offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Palmerston North

Try the lamb shanks at The Coachman Restaurant, where local ingredients shine through hearty, home-style cooking. This cozy eatery offers a charming atmosphere that contrasts with Auckland’s bustling dining scene, inviting you to savor flavors rooted in the region.

Auckland - Palmerston North operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Palmerston North

Average Duration
8h 35m
Estimated price
110-1040
Contact phone
+64 9 366 6400
Website
at.govt.nz

Train from Britomart Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
2080-2081
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Palmerston North

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
40-65
Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Palmerston (PMR)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
1045-1046
Website
airchathams.co.nz

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Wanganui (WAG)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1047-1048

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Paraparaumu (PPQ)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
1045-1049
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Other from Wanganui to Palmerston North

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
2082-1040

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

Traveling between Auckland and Palmerston North 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road journey from Auckland to Palmerston North spanning 323 miles, offering breathtaking views of New Zealand's picturesque landscapes. 🌿 With a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes, the route presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the North Island's countryside while heading towards Palmerston North. 💰 Prices for this road trip adventure range from $85 to $130, making it an affordable and rewarding travel option for those seeking to explore the diverse terrains of New Zealand.
Average price
$85 - $130
🛤️ The train ride takes approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and relaxing way to experience the New Zealand countryside. With spacious seating and onboard amenities, travelers can enjoy a leisurely trip from the North Island's largest city to the charming town of Palmerston North. 💸 Tickets for the Auckland to Palmerston North train range from $110 to $150, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore more of New Zealand's beautiful landscapes. Sit back, relax, and take in the picturesque views during this unforgettable train journey across the country.
Departure Point
Auckland Strand station
Arrival Point
Palmerston North station
🛫 Embark on a seamless journey from Auckland Airport to Palmerston North Airport with a quick and convenient direct flight lasting only 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Palmerston Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Auckland to Palmerston North is a convenient way to travel between the two cities. There is a direct bus service operated by InterCity that runs five times a week, taking approximately 10 hours to reach your destination. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Auckland to Palmerston North bus vary from $40 to $65, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore more of New Zealand. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this bus journey offers a comfortable and stress-free way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Auckland - Central station
Arrival Point
Palmerston North station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Palmerston North.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Auckland and Palmerston North is approximately 399.1 km by road, but the road distance is longer at 519.2 km. It takes about 8 hours and 40 minutes to travel by train from Auckland to Palmerston North. Another option is to take a train from Auckland and then fly to Palmerston North, which takes approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes. For those who prefer driving, it would take around 5 hours and 49 minutes to travel by car from Palmerston North to Auckland. Alternatively, the bus journey from Auckland to Palmerston North can take approximately 10 hours.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Auckland to Palmerston North is by bus, costing between $35 and $65. However, this option takes the longest, with a travel time of 10 hours. If time-efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to take the train and then fly, which takes 3 hours and 9 minutes and costs between $100 and $210.
The prices for train travel between Auckland and Palmerston North range from $45 to $130. On the other hand, bus fares between the two cities vary from $35 to $65.
To travel from Auckland to Palmerston North without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is 519.8 km, and it takes approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes to drive from Auckland to Palmerston North. The prices for car rentals vary, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $85 and $130 for the journey.
To travel from Auckland to Palmerston North without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and fares range from $45 to $130.
Yes, there is a direct link between Auckland and Palmerston North. You can take a train which departs from Auckland Strand and arrives at Palmerston North. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and operates three times a week. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus service that departs from Auckland - Central and arrives at Palmerston North. The bus journey takes approximately 10 hours and operates five times a week.
The flight between Auckland and Palmerston North typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but generally, prices range from $100 to $250 NZD for a one-way ticket.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Palmerston North. With over 75 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $65 per night, offering affordable options for those on a tight budget.