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Nelson to Wellington from $48: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Nelson, New Zealand
to
Wellington, New Zealand

How to Get from Nelson 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.

$48 - Bus, ferryBest price
126 kmDistance
1h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Nelson 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
Plane
Average Duration
1h  7m
Estimated price
$54-184
Recommended
Company
InterCity, Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries, Interislander
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$48-81
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 126 km
Duration: 1h 7m

See more options

Company
InterCity, Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries, Interislander
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
$128-171
Company
Various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
5h  2m
Estimated price
$129-167
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Traveling From Nelson to Wellington

Traveling from Nelson to Wellington offers you breathtaking coastal views and vibrant culture, showcasing the serene beauty of the South Island contrasted with the bustling urban life of New Zealand's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wellington

Wellington boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Te Aro
• Home to vibrant Cuba Street's cafes and shops.
• Features lively street art and a youthful atmosphere.
Mount Victoria
• Offers panoramic views of the city and harbor.
• Great for scenic walks and outdoor activities.
Kelburn
• Known for its stunning botanical gardens and lush landscapes.
• Host to Victoria University, buzzing with student life.

Best Times To Visit Wellington's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your Wellington experience significantly.

Te Papa Tongarewa
Visit early weekday mornings to enjoy quieter exhibits and better interactions.
Wellington Cable Car
Opt for late afternoon rides for stunning sunset views and fewer tourists.
Botanical Gardens
Go during weekdays in spring for blooming flowers and tranquil walks.

Wellington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wellington experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild, windy winters and sunny summers, making it a year-round destination. Visiting during spring or autumn often provides the most pleasant conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and city explorations.

Dining Recommendation in Wellington

For a standout experience, try the lamb shoulder at Logan Brown, where the vibrant atmosphere and contemporary setting contrast sharply with Nelson's laid-back dining scene. This dish showcases Wellington's focus on bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients, offering you an exciting taste of the capital's culinary innovation.

Nelson - Wellington operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Nelson Airport (NSN) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$546-547
Website
soundsair.com

Plane from Nelson Airport (NSN) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$45-548
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Nelson Millers Acre Carpark to Picton

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$549-1840
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Picton to Wellington

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$1841-1842
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Picton to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$1843-541

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

Traveling between Nelson 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.

🛫 Flying from Nelson Airport to Wellington Airport is a quick journey that takes just 30 minutes on a direct flight offered by Sounds Air and Air New Zealand. 🌆 Once you arrive in Wellington, you'll have traveled a distance of 1 hour and 7 minutes, allowing for a convenient and efficient trip between these two beautiful New Zealand cities. 💰 Prices for flights between Wellington and Nelson can range from $54 to $184, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget considerations.
Departure Point
Nelson Airport
Arrival Point
Wellington Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be aware that the flight duration from Nelson to Wellington is quite short at approximately 30 minutes, so keep your carry-on essentials handy to maximize your time onboard and prepare for a quick descent.
• Once you land at Wellington Airport, be prepared for potential weather conditions that can impact visibility; the airport's layout is straightforward, but it’s helpful to follow the clearly marked signage to navigate through the arrivals area efficiently.
• Expect to pay around NZD $30 - $40 for a taxi from Wellington Airport to the city center, and consider pre-booking rides via apps like Uber for convenience, as this can be a more cost-effective option than traditional taxis.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Nelson to Wellington.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Nelson and Wellington is 125.5 km. There are two main modes of transportation to travel between the two cities. By bus and ferry, it takes approximately 6 hours and 22 minutes to reach Wellington from Nelson. However, by plane, the travel time is significantly shorter, taking only 1 hour and 7 minutes.
For a cost-effective option, the cheapest way to travel from Nelson to Wellington is by taking a bus and then ferry, with prices ranging from $45 to $80. This option does take longer, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 22 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes and costs between $50 and $200.
The best way to travel from Nelson to Wellington without a car is by taking a bus and ferry combination. This journey typically takes around 6 hours and 22 minutes. The cost of this route ranges from $45 to $80. Alternatively, you can also choose to fly from Nelson to Wellington, which takes approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes.
The flight between Nelson and Wellington typically takes around 30 minutes, making it the quickest mode of transportation. The prices for flights between the two cities range from $53 to $193, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are many options for accommodation near Wellington. With over 195 hotels available, you can choose from a range of prices starting at $67.

Trips from Nelson