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Rotorua to Wellington from $35: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rotorua, New Zealand
to
Wellington, New Zealand

How to Get from Rotorua 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.

$35 by busBest price
232.4 milesDistance
2h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rotorua 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
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$217-373
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$35-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 232.4 miles
Duration: 2h 30m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$50-237
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  54m
Estimated price
$65-250
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  20m
Estimated price
$75-120
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$103-267
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Traveling From Rotorua to Wellington

The journey from Rotorua to Wellington offers a fascinating contrast between Rotorua's geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture, and Wellington's vibrant arts scene and picturesque harbor.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wellington

Wellington's neighborhoods vary in character, offering something for everyone.

Te Aro
• Home to trendy cafés and restaurants.
• Close to vibrant nightlife and shopping options.
Oriental Bay
• Stunning beachfront views and walkways.
• Popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Thorndon
• Features historic architecture and charming streets.
• Home to the New Zealand Parliament and Botanical Gardens.

Best Times To Visit Wellington's Attractions

Planning your visit to Wellington? Here are the best times to explore its highlights.

Wellington Cable Car
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views with fewer crowds.
Te Papa Tongarewa
Weekdays, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, provide a quieter experience.
Wellington Botanic Garden
Early spring or autumn showcases beautiful blooms while avoiding crowds.

Wellington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wellington experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, windy summers; the best times to visit are spring and early autumn when conditions are most pleasant. Weather can significantly influence your travel experience, so always pack layers and be prepared for sudden changes.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly unique experience, try the lamb dish at Logan Brown, a fine dining restaurant that emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients and showcases Wellington's contemporary flair. This contrasts with Rotorua's traditional Maori dishes, offering a vibrant culinary atmosphere and innovative flavor profiles that promise to delight your palate.

Rotorua - Wellington operators

Explore transport companies operating between Rotorua and Wellington, 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 Rotorua to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
8h 55m
Estimated price
35-55
Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Rotorua to Wellington

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
45-230

Plane from Tauranga to Wellington

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
80-270

Plane from Rotorua via Auckland to Wellington

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
45-230

Plane from Hamilton to Wellington

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
50-240

Plane from Rotorua to Wellington

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
45-230
Taxi
Contact phone
+64 7 348 1111
Website
rotoruataxis.co.nz

Taxi from Rotorua to Tauranga

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
130-160
Contact phone
+64 7 347 9797
Website
rotoruataxi.co.nz

Taxi from Rotorua to Tauranga

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
130-160

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

Traveling between Rotorua 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.

🚗 Embark on a breathtaking road trip from Rotorua to Wellington, covering a distance of 452.2 km. Enjoy the scenic drive that takes approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from $75 to $120 for a memorable journey from Rotorua to Wellington by car. 🌿 Immerse yourself in picturesque landscapes as you traverse from Rotorua to Wellington, each kilometer unveiling the beauty of New Zealand's North Island.
Average price
$75 - $120
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Rotorua to Wellington by taking a direct flight that only lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes. Air New Zealand provides flights from Tauranga Airport to Wellington Airport, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. ✈️ The flight duration from Rotorua to Wellington is approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes, offering a comfortable and time-saving way to reach your destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Wellington and Rotorua can vary from $50 to $237, providing flexibility for travelers with different budget requirements.
Departure Point
Tauranga Airport
Arrival Point
Wellington Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Opt for Air New Zealand for your direct flight from Rotorua to Wellington, which typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes; check their website for the latest schedules and pricing at airnewzealand.co.nz
• Upon arrival at Wellington Airport, navigate through the domestic terminal easily by following the clear signage towards baggage claim; remember that the domestic area is compact, making it quick to get your bags and exit.
• Expect taxi fares from Wellington Airport to the city center to range between NZD 30 to NZD 50; alternatively, check the shuttle services available at the airport for a more economical option, such as SuperShuttle (supershuttle.co.nz).
🚌 The journey from Rotorua to Wellington by bus is a convenient option for travelers. The direct bus service, operated by InterCity, departs once daily and takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes. 🎟️ Tickets for the bus from Rotorua to Wellington range from $35 to $55, making it an affordable and comfortable transportation choice for your trip. Arrive at Wellington - Central station ready to explore all that the vibrant capital city has to offer.
Departure Point
Rotorua station
Arrival Point
Wellington - Central station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Rotorua to Wellington.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Rotorua and Wellington is approximately 373.4 km by air and 452.5 km by road. Traveling by plane from Rotorua to Wellington takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes. However, taking a taxi to Tauranga and then flying is a faster option, with a travel time of 2 hours and 41 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes to reach Rotorua from Wellington by car, while a bus journey will take around 8 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Rotorua to Wellington is by bus, which typically costs between $30 and $55. However, this option is time-consuming, taking approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes. For a more time-efficient journey, taking a taxi to Tauranga and then flying to Wellington is the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 41 minutes, but it comes at a higher cost, ranging from $210 to $360.
The prices for a bus ticket between Rotorua and Wellington typically range from $30 to $55.
To get from Rotorua to Wellington without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 452.2 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 20 minutes to drive from Rotorua to Wellington. The cost of driving can vary between $75 to $120, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Rotorua to Wellington without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes and tickets typically cost between $30 and $55.
Yes, there is a direct link between Rotorua and Wellington. The InterCity bus service provides a daily route from Rotorua to Wellington, with an approximate travel time of 8 hours and 55 minutes. The bus departs from Rotorua station and arrives at Wellington - Central station.
The flight between Rotorua and Wellington typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $50 and $237, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are a variety of accommodation options near Wellington. There are over 195 hotels available, providing travelers with a wide range of choices. Prices start at $67 per night, ensuring that there are options to fit different budgets.

Trips from Rotorua