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Christchurch to Queenstown from $35: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Christchurch, New Zealand
to
Queenstown, New Zealand

How to Get from Christchurch to Queenstown: 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.

$35 by busBest price
359.6 kmDistance
2h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Christchurch to Queenstown 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
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
2h  59m
Estimated price
$69-239
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$35-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 359.6 km
Duration: 2h 59m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$80-120
Company
Cheeky Kiwi Travel
Drive
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$170-230
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$323-513
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Christchurch to Queenstown

Journeying from Christchurch to Queenstown offers a striking contrast between the vibrant urban charm of the former and the breathtaking outdoor adventures waiting in the latter.

Best Neighbourhoods in Queenstown

Queenstown boasts diverse neighborhoods catering to different tastes and experiences.

Central Queenstown
• Bustling nightlife and dining options.
• Proximity to Lake Wakatipu activities.
Fernhill
• Stunning panoramic views of the town.
• Quaint, peaceful residential vibe.
Arrowtown
• Rich gold rush history and charm.
• Picturesque streets lined with boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Queenstown's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Queenstown by timing your visits to key attractions effectively.

Skyline Queenstown
Visit in the early morning for serene views and fewer crowds.
Milford Sound
Opt for weekday trips to enjoy quieter cruise experiences.
Queenstown Gardens
Early afternoons on weekdays provide a peaceful stroll with fewer visitors.

Queenstown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Queenstown experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it vital to consider the weather when planning your visit. The best times to enjoy outdoor activities are during the warmer months of December to February, while winter offers excellent skiing opportunities, so your travel experience will vary greatly depending on the season.

Dining Recommendation in Queenstown

At Fergburger, indulge in a legendary gourmet burger that showcases local ingredients and bold flavors, setting it apart from the more refined dining scene in Christchurch. The casual atmosphere and vibrant energy of this popular eatery provide a delightful contrast to the dining experiences you'll find in the city, making it a must-visit.

Christchurch - Queenstown operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
NZ$60-240
Website
soundsair.com

Plane from Christchurch to Wanaka

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
NZ$140-380
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
NZ$35-55
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
cheekykiwitravel.com

Other from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
NZ$170-230
Contact phone
+64 800 443 5555
Website
yello.co.nz

Other from Wanaka to Queenstown

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
NZ$180-220
Contact phone
+64 800 926 282
Website
wanataxi.co.nz

Other from Wanaka to Queenstown

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
NZ$180-220

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

Traveling between Christchurch and Queenstown 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 Queenstown, covering a scenic driving distance of 486.0 km. Enjoy the beauty of the South Island landscape unfolding before your eyes. 💰 Explore different price options for your journey, with the cost to travel from Christchurch to Queenstown by car ranging from $80 to $120. 🏞️ Immerse yourself in the natural wonders as you drive through the South Island, taking approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes to reach the adventure capital of Queenstown.
Average price
$80 - $120
🚂 Ready to embark on a scenic train journey from Christchurch to Queenstown? The route covers a distance of 391 km and takes approximately 8 hours and 17 minutes to complete. 🚌 Before boarding the train, you will need to take a bus towards Queenstown, which typically takes around 8 hours and 10 minutes. 🌄 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views as you travel from Christchurch to Queenstown with InterCity. Contact the agency at 011 64 9 583 5780 or visit their website for more information on schedules and bookings.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Ensure you check the onboard catering services. The TranzAlpine train, which operates part of the journey, offers a dining car with a range of hot meals, snacks, and beverages available for purchase. Make sure to bring cash or a card as the services may not accept cash only.
• When booking your ticket, consider the seat options available on the KiwiRail Scenic Journeys, which includes Gold and Economy Class. Gold Class offers spacious, comfortable seating with complimentary meals, while Economy Class provides a more budget-friendly option with standard seating, which is still quite comfortable.
• There are multiple operators for this route, including KiwiRail Scenic Journeys (kiwirailscenic.co.nz) and Great Journeys New Zealand (greatjourneysnz.com). Be sure to compare their schedules and pricing to find the best option for your trip.
🛫 Flying from Christchurch to Queenstown is a convenient option, with a direct flight taking only 1 hour. Air New Zealand operates this route, offering a quick and efficient travel experience. 🌄 Enjoy picturesque views from the air during the 2 hour and 59-minute journey to Queenstown. This scenic flight showcases the natural beauty of New Zealand's South Island. 💸 Prices for flights between Christchurch and Queenstown can range from $69 to $239, providing options for various budgets.
Departure Point
Christchurch Airport
Arrival Point
Queenstown Airport
🏞️ Enjoy approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes of stunning views as you make your way from Christchurch to Queenstown. 💰 Bus tickets between Queenstown and Christchurch are priced between $35 to $55, providing an affordable and comfortable transportation choice for travelers looking to explore these two beautiful cities in the South Island of New Zealand.
Departure Point
Christchurch station
Arrival Point
Queenstown station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To ensure a seamless journey, check the InterCity bus schedule in advance, as they operate five days a week and leave from Christchurch Station, located at 1 Cathedral Square, so plan to arrive early to find your way around. You can view the schedule and book your ticket at InterCity.
• The scenic route from Christchurch to Queenstown offers stunning views; sit on the right side of the bus for the best scenery, especially as you approach the Southern Alps, and consider bringing a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
• Upon arrival at Queenstown Station, step outside and take a moment to familiarize yourself with the area; the stunning Lake Wakatipu is just a short walk away and offers great dining options, like 'Fergburger', known for its gourmet burgers, located at 42 Shotover Street. For more information about Queenstown, visit the Queenstown NZ website.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Christchurch to Queenstown.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Christchurch and Queenstown is approximately 359 km. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By flying to Wanaka and then taking a bus, it takes approximately 5 hours and 12 minutes to reach Queenstown from Christchurch. Alternatively, a direct flight from Christchurch to Queenstown takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes. If traveling by car, the journey from Christchurch to Queenstown typically takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes, while the bus ride takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Christchurch to Queenstown is by bus, with prices ranging from $30 to $55. Although this option takes the longest time, with a travel duration of 8 hours and 10 minutes, it allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 4 minutes. Prices for flights range from $65 to $240.
The prices of a bus ticket between Queenstown and Christchurch can range from $30 to $55.
To travel from Christchurch to Queenstown without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of 486 km, which takes about 5 hours and 42 minutes. The prices for car rental vary, typically ranging from $80 to $120.
The most convenient way to travel from Christchurch to Queenstown without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes and the ticket price ranges from $30 to $55.
Yes, there is a direct link between Christchurch and Queenstown. InterCity operates bus services that run five times a week, departing from Christchurch and arriving at Queenstown. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between Christchurch and Queenstown is approximately 1 hour. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $69 to $239.
There are various accommodation options available near Queenstown with over 958 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $56 per night.