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Auckland to Wellington from $42: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Wellington, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Wellington: 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.

$42 by busBest price
306.7 milesDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Wellington 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
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$90-339
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
12h  35m
Estimated price
$42-72
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 306.7 miles
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$97-319
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  26m
Estimated price
$110-160
Company
KiwiRail - Northern Explorer
Train
Average Duration
12h 
Estimated price
$132-172
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$206-514
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Traveling From Auckland to Wellington

The journey from Auckland to Wellington showcases contrasting experiences, with Auckland's vibrant urban landscape offering a bustling atmosphere, while Wellington captivates with its artistic culture and stunning harbor views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wellington

Wellington offers diverse neighborhoods that reflect its vibrant culture and lifestyle.

Cuba Street
• Known for its eclectic shops and cafes.
• Bustling atmosphere with frequent street performances.
Mount Victoria
• Stunning views of the city and harbor.
• Beautiful parks and walking trails for outdoor lovers.
Thorndon
• Home to historic architecture and gardens.
• Close to the Beehive and Parliament buildings.

Best Times To Visit Wellington's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Wellington's attractions.

Te Papa Tongarewa
Visit early morning on weekdays for a quieter exploration of exhibits.
Wellington Cable Car
Aim for late afternoon rides to enjoy stunning sunset views.
Frank Kitts Park
Go during weekdays to relax in a tranquil environment, away from crowds.

Wellington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wellington experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winds and varying rainfall, making it essential to check forecasts before your visit. The best times to explore the city are during the spring and summer months, when the weather is generally more inviting and conducive for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Wellington

For a delightful contrast to Auckland’s vibrant café scene, try the slow-cooked lamb shoulder at Logan Brown, where you'll experience a blend of classic and contemporary New Zealand cuisine. The restaurant's emphasis on local ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere truly sets it apart, offering a culinary journey rooted in Wellington's rich food culture.

Auckland - Wellington operators

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

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

Train from Kingsland Train Station to Newmarket Train Station

Average Duration
11m
Estimated price
NZ$1-2

Train from Newmarket Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
NZ$1-3
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Wellington

Average Duration
10h 40m
Estimated price
NZ$130-170
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$40-70
Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
NZ$130-320
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$75-200
Website
airchathams.co.nz

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Paraparaumu (PPQ)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$24-290
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 4 296 1111
Website
paraparaumutaxis.co.nz

Other from Paraparaumu to Wellington

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
NZ$170-210

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

Traveling between Auckland and Wellington 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 picturesque road trip from Auckland City to Wellington covering a driving distance of 645.3 km, offering stunning views of New Zealand's diverse landscape along the way. 💰 Experience flexibility in your budget as prices for the journey from Auckland City to Wellington by car range from $110 to $160, providing affordable options for all types of travelers. 🌄 Enjoy a scenic and memorable 7-hour and 26-minute drive through beautiful regions of New Zealand as you make your way from Auckland City to Wellington, immersing yourself in the country's natural beauty and charm.
Average price
$110 - $160
🚆 Experience a scenic journey from Auckland to Wellington by train, taking approximately 12 hours. Prices range from $132 to $172 for this relaxing ride across New Zealand's North Island. 🛤️ Route 1 presents a slightly quicker option, with a total travel time of 11 hours and 14 minutes for the 677 km distance. The journey involves a transfer at Papakura, where you switch trains towards the capital city. The Northern Explorer service by Great Journeys New Zealand offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel.
Useful tips for train travellers
• The KiwiRail Northeastern Train operates the route from Auckland to Wellington. Onboard catering includes a cafe car offering a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages. Be sure to check the daily specials, as they often showcase local dishes and treats to enhance your travel experience.
• On this journey, you can choose from Economy, Business, and First Class seating. Economy seats are comfortable and offer good legroom, while Business Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. For the ultimate experience, opt for First Class, which features reclining seats, higher demand service, and additional meal options. For detailed seating arrangements, check the KiwiRail website.
• There are two main operators for this route: KiwiRail and InterCity. Visit their websites for more information: KiwiRail (kiwirail.co.nz) and InterCity (intercity.co.nz). Additionally, consult city public transport schedules (metlink.org.nz) to plan your onward journey.
🛫 Departing from Auckland Airport, the direct flight to Wellington Airport is a quick 1 hour and 5 minutes journey offered by Jetstar and Air New Zealand. 🌏
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Wellington Airport
🚌 Planning a trip from Auckland City to Wellington in New Zealand by bus involves a journey that takes approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes, including transfers. The services are operated by InterCity, departing from Auckland - Central station. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 587 km and offers a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. The bus towards Wellington - Central takes around 11 hours and 15 minutes, offering a comfortable ride to your destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Auckland and Wellington range from $42 to $72, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the North Island of New Zealand. For bookings and more information, you can contact InterCity at 011 64 9 583 5780 or visit their website at http://www.
Departure Point
Auckland - Central station
Arrival Point
Wellington - Central station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Wellington.

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The distance between Auckland and Wellington is 494.1 km by air and 644.5 km by road. The quickest mode of transportation is flying, which takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. If you prefer to travel by train, it will take around 12 hours. Driving by car takes approximately 7 hours and 26 minutes, while taking a bus can take up to 12 hours and 35 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Auckland to Wellington is by bus, as it is relatively inexpensive with fares ranging from $40 to $75. However, it is also the slowest option, with a travel time of 12 hours and 35 minutes. If time is a priority, the most time-efficient option would be taking a train and then flying, which takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes and costs between $50 and $210.
The price of a train ticket between Auckland and Wellington can range from $52 to $132, depending on the class and type of service. On the other hand, the price of a bus ticket between Wellington and Auckland can range from $42 to $72.
To travel from Auckland to Wellington without using public transportation, you can drive the 645.3 km distance which takes around 7 hours and 26 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and the ability to explore scenic landscapes along the way. Prices for a car rental vary, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $110 and $160 for the journey.
The best option to travel from Auckland to Wellington without a car is by taking the train. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and offers beautiful scenic views along the way. The train tickets cost between $50 and $140, depending on the class and time of travel.
Yes, there is a direct link between Auckland and Wellington. The most popular mode of transportation is by air, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are also train services available, which take around 12 hours, and buses that take approximately 7-12 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions. The distance between the two cities is approximately 494.1 km by road.
The flight between Auckland and Wellington typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and any additional services or baggage fees. On average, a one-way flight can range from around $80 to $200.
There are over 195 hotels available in Wellington offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $67 per night, making it possible to find accommodation that fits within your budget.