Christchurch to Kaikoura from $19: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$19 by busBest price

182.2 kmDistance

2h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Christchurch to Kaikoura 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.

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Traveling From Christchurch to Kaikoura

Your journey from Christchurch to Kaikoura reveals a striking contrast between the city's vibrant urban landscape and the serene coastal charm of Kaikoura, where nature takes center stage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kaikoura

Kaikoura offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Kaikoura Town

• Central access to shops and eateries.

• Great views of the mountains and ocean.

Mekers Beach

• Close proximity to stunning beaches.

• Ideal for whale watching activities.

Point Kean

• Excellent walking trails along the coastline.

• Best spot for seal encounters.

Best Times To Visit Kaikoura's Attractions

Timing your visit to Kaikoura's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Whale Watching Tours

Early morning trips offer calmer seas and fewer tourists.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Weekdays are quieter; enjoy stunning views with minimal foot traffic.

Visit the Seals at Point Kean

Morning hours provide optimal chances to see active seals.

Kaikoura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kaikoura enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cooler winters that can bring some rain, making spring and autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather helps you plan activities like whale watching or hiking, ensuring you make the most of your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Kaikoura

One must-try spot in Kaikoura is the renowned 'Kaikoura Seafood BBQ', where you can savor the freshest local seafood, including tender crayfish and flavorful fish, all served in a relaxed outdoor setting overlooking the ocean. This dining experience contrasts with Christchurch’s urban eateries by offering a direct connection to the sea and an ambiance that highlights the natural beauty of the region.

Christchurch - Kaikoura operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+64 9 583 5780

Website

https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

19-35

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+64 4495 0775

Website

greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

70-270

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

Traveling between Christchurch and Kaikoura 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 Christchurch to Kaikōura, covering a distance of 181.9 km. Enjoy approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes of scenic driving through New Zealand's stunning landscapes. 💸 Experience the flexibility of travel as prices to journey from Christchurch to Kaikōura by car range from $30 to $45. 🐳 Arrive in Kaikōura and immerse yourself in its coastal beauty, known for its marine life and charming seaside town. Relax, unwind, and make memories on this delightful road trip adventure through the heart of New Zealand.

Average price

$30 - $45

🌊 Enjoy the stunning coastal views as you travel for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes to reach Kaikoura by train. 💸 Ticket prices for the Christchurch to Kaikoura train range from $70 to $270, providing options for different budgets.

Departure Point

Christchurch station

Arrival Point

Kaikoura station

🌊 Enjoy a scenic 2-hour and 50-minute ride through beautiful New Zealand landscapes as you travel from Christchurch to Kaikoura. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Kaikoura and Christchurch range from $19 to $35, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for your travel between these two destinations.

Departure Point

Christchurch station

Arrival Point

Kaikoura station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Christchurch to Kaikoura.

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The distance between Christchurch and Kaikōura in New Zealand is approximately 153 km. By car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes to travel from Kaikōura to Christchurch. However, it is slightly longer, approximately 182 km, to drive from Christchurch to Kaikōura. If you prefer to take a train, it takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes to reach Kaikōura from Christchurch, while a bus journey from Christchurch to Kaikōura also takes roughly the same amount of time.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Christchurch to Kaikoura is by bus, with tickets ranging from $19 to $35. This mode of transportation takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. However, for a quicker journey, driving is the most time-efficient option, taking only 2 hours and 22 minutes and costing around $30 to $45.

The prices for traveling from Christchurch to Kaikoura by train range from $29 to $40, while the prices for traveling by bus from Kaikoura to Christchurch vary from $19 to $35.

To get from Christchurch to Kaikoura without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 182 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete the journey by car. You can expect to pay a range of $30 to $45 for fuel costs depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current prices.

The best way to travel from Christchurch to Kaikoura without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes and costs between $19 and $35.

Yes, there is a direct link between Christchurch and Kaikoura. You can travel by train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. The train service operates four times a week. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus, which also takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with services operating daily.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Kaikoura. With over 127 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $55 per night, offering affordable choices for travelers.

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