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Dunedin to Christchurch from $29: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Dunedin, New Zealand
to
Christchurch, New Zealand

How to Get from Dunedin 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.

$29 by busBest price
194 milesDistance
3h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dunedin 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
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
3h  18m
Estimated price
$60-238
Recommended
Company
Atomic Travel
Drive
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
$26-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 194 miles
Duration: 3h 18m

See more options

Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
6h  25m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  26m
Estimated price
$60-90
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Traveling From Dunedin to Christchurch

Your journey from Dunedin to Christchurch offers a fascinating shift from Dunedin's Scottish heritage and coastal charm to Christchurch's vibrant garden city ethos and urban revival.

Best Neighbourhoods in Christchurch

Christchurch boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Sumner
• Stunning beach views perfect for relaxation.
• Vibrant cafe culture along the seaside promenade.
Lyttelton
• Historic charm with colorful buildings and cafes.
• Scenic harbor and hiking trails nearby.
Merivale
• Upscale shopping and boutique stores abound.
• Beautiful parks and gardens enhance the atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Christchurch's Attractions

Timing your visits to Christchurch's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Botanic Gardens
Visit early in the morning for serene strolls and fewer crowds.
Christchurch Art Gallery
Weekday afternoons provide a quieter atmosphere for art exploration.
Re:START Mall
Explore during weekdays to enjoy shopping without the weekend bustle.

Christchurch Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it ideal for year-round travel, though spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions. Be prepared for occasional rain and wind, as the weather can influence your outdoor plans and the enjoyment of local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Christchurch

For a taste of Christchurch’s vibrant food scene, try the fresh seafood paella at Fiddlesticks, which combines local ingredients in a lively, contemporary setting that contrasts sharply with Dunedin’s more traditional fare. This experience showcases a mix of flavors and a bustling atmosphere that truly reflects the city's dynamic culinary culture.

Dunedin - Christchurch operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Dunedin Airport (DUD) to Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$45-210
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Dunedin to Christchurch

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
NZ$29-45
Shuttle
Website
atomictravel.co.nz

Shuttle from Dunedin to Christchurch Bus Interchange

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$26-80

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

Traveling between Dunedin 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Dunedin to Christchurch, spanning a distance of 360.5 km. Enjoy the scenic beauty of New Zealand's South Island as you drive through stunning landscapes. 💸 Experience the affordable journey from Dunedin to Christchurch by car, with prices ranging from $60 to $90. 🌟 Immerse yourself in the charming charm of Christchurch after a 4-hour and 26-minute drive from Dunedin.
Average price
$60 - $90
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train from Dunedin to Christchurch is operated by KiwiRail's Scenic Journeys, which offers a café on board where you can purchase a range of snacks and beverages. Be sure to try the locally sourced options and keep an eye out for special seasonal dishes. You can enjoy your meal in the dining car while taking in the stunning views of the Southern Alps.
• The seating options on this train include Economy Class and Premium Class. Premium Class offers larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and amenities, making it a great choice for a more luxurious travel experience. Economy Class provides a good balance of comfort and affordability. Reserve your seats in advance for the best selection.
• Upon arriving at Christchurch Train Station, be sure to take advantage of the luggage storage facilities available for a small fee, in case you want to explore the city without your bags. The train station has well-maintained restrooms but does not have shower facilities. If you need to get to the city center quickly, the bus number 29 runs frequently from the nearby bus terminal and will get you there in under 30 minutes.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Dunedin to Christchurch with a direct flight that takes only 1 hour and 5 minutes. Air New Zealand provides flights from Dunedin Airport to Christchurch Airport. ✈️ In just under 3 hours and 18 minutes, you'll reach the vibrant city of Christchurch from Dunedin by plane. 💸 Prices for flights between Christchurch and Dunedin typically range from $60 to $238, offering flexibility to suit different budget preferences.
Departure Point
Dunedin Airport
Arrival Point
Christchurch Airport
🛣️ Sit back and enjoy the scenic 6-hour and 25-minute ride through the stunning landscapes of the South Island as you make your way from Dunedin to Christchurch. 💰 Ticket prices for the Dunedin to Christchurch bus route range from $29 to $45, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Departure Point
Dunedin station
Arrival Point
Christchurch station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your tickets in advance through InterCity or other operators such as Kiwi Experience and Naked Bus, especially during peak travel seasons, as buses can fill up quickly; you can find more information and book online at InterCity or Kiwi Experience.
• As you travel from Dunedin to Christchurch, enjoy the scenic views of the Canterbury Plains and some coastal landscapes; keep your camera ready during the journey, particularly when passing through spots like the town of Ashburton.
• Upon arriving at Christchurch Bus Interchange, familiarize yourself with the layout of the station, which includes facilities such as luggage storage and food options; don’t forget to check the departure boards for your next plans, and you can find a station map here: Christchurch Bus Interchange Map.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dunedin to Christchurch.

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The distance between Dunedin and Christchurch is 312.2 km by air and 361.3 km by road. By plane, it takes 3 hours and 16 minutes to travel from Dunedin to Christchurch. By car, it takes approximately 4 hours and 26 minutes to drive from Christchurch to Dunedin. If traveling by bus, it takes about 6 hours and 25 minutes to reach Christchurch from Dunedin.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Dunedin to Christchurch is by bus, which usually costs around $25 to $45. Although it takes the longest time, with a journey of 6 hours and 25 minutes, it is still a relatively affordable option. However, for those prioritizing time efficiency, flying is the quickest way to reach Christchurch, taking only 3 hours and 16 minutes. The cost for a flight usually ranges from $45 to $220, depending on the airline and time of booking.
When traveling from Dunedin to Christchurch, the prices for a bus ticket can range from $25 to $45.
To travel from Dunedin to Christchurch without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive. The distance between the two cities is around 360.5 km, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 26 minutes to drive. Car rental prices for this route typically range from $60 to $90.
The best way to travel from Dunedin to Christchurch without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $25 to $45.
Yes, there is a direct link between Dunedin and Christchurch. InterCity operates a bus service that departs twice daily from Dunedin and arrives at Christchurch. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between Dunedin and Christchurch typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $49 and $218, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Christchurch in New Zealand. With over 597 hotels available, you have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $40 per night, allowing for various budgets to find suitable options.

Trips from Dunedin