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Queenstown to Wanaka from $5: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Queenstown, New Zealand
to
Wanaka, New Zealand

How to Get from Queenstown to Wanaka: 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.

$5 by busBest price
70 kmDistance
1h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Queenstown to Wanaka 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
Bus
Average Duration
1h  30m
Estimated price
$5-24
Recommended
route map
Distance: 70 km
Duration: 1h 7m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  7m
Estimated price
$11-18
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h  7m
Estimated price
$160-200
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Traveling From Queenstown to Wanaka

The scenic journey between Queenstown and Wanaka offers a striking contrast: Queenstown buzzes with adventure and nightlife, while Wanaka invites you to relax amidst breathtaking landscapes and outdoor serenity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wanaka

Wanaka features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charms.

Roys Bay
• Stunning views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountains.
• Easy access to waterfront activities and scenic walks.
Wanaka Town Centre
• Vibrant cafés, restaurants, and local shops abound.
• Great base for exploring Wanaka’s attractions.
Albert Town
• Quiet, family-friendly vibe near the Clutha River.
• Ideal for cycling and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Wanaka's Attractions

Planning your visit to Wanaka’s attractions can enhance your experience.

Lake Wanaka
Visit in early morning for tranquil views and fewer crowds.
Puzzling World
Afternoons on weekdays are less busy, allowing for a relaxed experience.
Mount Iron Track
Early spring or autumn provide stunning scenery with fewer hikers.

Wanaka Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wanaka experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, as the mild weather enhances outdoor activities and offers stunning landscapes.

Dining Recommendation in Wanaka

Head to Kika, where you can savor locally sourced ingredients in a rustic yet chic setting, creating a more laid-back vibe compared to the bustling eateries of Queenstown. The standout dish, the roasted lamb shoulder, showcases rich flavors and a connection to the region’s agriculture, making it a true representation of Wanaka's culinary identity.

Queenstown - Wanaka operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 833 6053
Website
https://www.ritchies.co.nz

Bus from Athol Street Queenstown to Wanaka lakefront

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
11-24
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5790
Website
https://www.greatsights.co.nz/new-zealand-tours/

Bus from Queenstown to Wānaka

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
5-51
Taxi
Contact phone
+64 800 46 47336
Website
https://greencabs.co.nz

Taxi from Queenstown to Wānaka

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
160-200
Contact phone
+64 3-450 3000
Website
https://queenstowntaxis.com

Taxi from Queenstown to Wānaka

Average Duration
1h 7m
Estimated price
160-200

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

Traveling between Queenstown and Wanaka 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.

🚗 Experience the scenic drive from Queenstown to Wānaka, spanning 43 miles of breathtaking landscapes and picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu. 💸 With car rental prices ranging from $11 to $18, this road trip offers the perfect blend of affordability and unforgettable travel experiences in the heart of New Zealand's South Island.
Average price
$11 - $18
🚂 Enjoy a scenic train journey from Queenstown to Wanaka! Route 1 boasts a quick 2-hour 5-minute ride covering a distance of 88.5 km with a bus connection at Franz Josef 58 On Cron Motel. 🚌 Opt for Route 2 for a slightly shorter 2-hour 4-minute train ride over 82.1 km, featuring a 1-hour 45-minute bus journey directly to Wanaka from Queenstown. 🌄 For a longer but picturesque adventure, consider Route 3 with a total travel time of 7 hours 59 minutes over 98.5 km.
🚌 Taking the bus from Queenstown to Wanaka offers a convenient and scenic journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Queenstown and Wanaka range from $5 to $24, making it an affordable and hassle-free transportation option for visitors exploring the South Island.
Departure Point
Athol Street Queenstown station
Arrival Point
Wanaka lakefront station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as services operated by Ritchies Transport, GreatSights, and InterCity can fill up quickly; you can check schedules and book online at Ritchies Transport or InterCity.
• When departing from Athol Street Queenstown, arrive at the station at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process; keep an eye out for the Ritchies bus as it often has multiple services and can be busy, making it worth checking the bus number displayed on the front.
• On arrival at the Wanaka lakefront station, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka; the station is conveniently located near several dining options, such as the waterfront cafe, (*Wanaka Gourmet Kitchen*), perfect for grabbing a bite while soaking in the scenery.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Queenstown to Wanaka.

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The distance between Queenstown and Wanaka in New Zealand is 53.1 km by road. The typical travel time by car is 1 hour and 7 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, it usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Wanaka from Queenstown.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Queenstown to Wanaka is by bus. It is affordable, with prices ranging from $5 to $24, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you prefer a quicker option, a taxi can take you between the two destinations in 1 hour and 7 minutes, but the cost is higher, ranging from $160 to $200.
When traveling from Queenstown to Wanaka, the prices of bus tickets range from $5 to $24.
To get from Queenstown to Wanaka without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 69.2 km and it usually takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes to reach Wanaka by car from Queenstown. You have the flexibility to choose your own route and make stops along the way to enjoy the stunning scenery. The cost of driving from Queenstown to Wanaka can vary, with prices ranging from $11 to $18 depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll charges.
The best way to travel from Queenstown to Wanaka without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $5 to $24.
Yes, there is a direct link between Queenstown and Wanaka. The bus service provided by Ritchies Transport departs from Athol Street Queenstown and arrives at Medical Centre Wanaka. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Wanaka. With over 437 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a wide range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $72 per night, ensuring that there is something for every traveler.

Trips to Wanaka