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Wellington to Christchurch from $36: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Christchurch, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington 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.

$36 - PlaneBest price
307.3 kmDistance
2h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$36-158
Recommended
route map
Distance: 307.3 km
Duration: 2h 47m

See more options

Company
InterCity
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
10h  5m
Estimated price
$62-92
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
10h  20m
Estimated price
$140-183
Company
KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific
Train
Average Duration
10h  24m
Estimated price
$145-315
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$167-223
Company
various
Drive
Train
Average Duration
10h  26m
Estimated price
$212-408
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Traveling From Wellington to Christchurch

The journey from Wellington to Christchurch offers a shift from the vibrant, artsy atmosphere of the capital to the spacious, garden city experience, highlighting New Zealand's diverse landscapes and cultures.

Best Neighbourhoods in Christchurch

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

Central City
• Vibrant street life and local shops.
• Close proximity to cultural attractions.
Lyttelton
• Scenic harbor views and quaint cafes.
• Rich maritime history and artistic community.
Merivale
• Upscale boutiques and fine dining options.
• Lush parks and beautiful tree-lined streets.

Best Times To Visit Christchurch's Attractions

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

Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Early mornings or weekdays offer a serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Canterbury Museum
Visit on weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience among the exhibits.
Punting on the Avon River
Late afternoon provides a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful sunset views.

Christchurch Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and chilly winters, making the period from late spring to early autumn ideal for exploration. Being aware of the weather patterns can significantly influence your outdoor plans and overall travel comfort.

Dining Recommendation in Christchurch

Try the lamb shoulder at Fiddlesticks, where the emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients creates a rustic yet refined dining experience. This contrasts with Wellington's eclectic food scene, offering a more cozy atmosphere that highlights Canterbury's rich agricultural heritage.

Wellington - Christchurch operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
35-210
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
30-210
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Train from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
45-45
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
100-270
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
28-45
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
30-50
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
110-140

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

Traveling between Wellington 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.

🚂 Traveling from Wellington to Christchurch by train requires a transfer in Picton, resulting in a journey time of approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Wellington and Christchurch typically range from $145 to $315, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for travelers in New Zealand.
Departure Point
Wellington - Central station
Arrival Point
Christchurch station
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Wellington to Christchurch with a direct flight that only takes 50 minutes. Airlines such as Jetstar and Air New Zealand provide this route. 🌆 The flight from Wellington Airport to Christchurch Airport offers a flight duration of 2 hours and 47 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination efficiently and comfortably. 💸 Prices for flights between Christchurch and Wellington range from $36 to $158, providing you with a variety of fare options to suit your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
Christchurch Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider the working hours of Wellington Airport; it often gets busy in the early mornings and late afternoons, especially on weekdays, so aim for mid-morning or early afternoon flights for a smoother experience.
• Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, you’ll find that the domestic terminal is quite compact, allowing for easy navigation; however, be prepared to go through biosecurity screening, which can take extra time, so factor that into your arrival schedule.
• Taxi fares from Christchurch Airport to the city center typically range from NZD 40 to NZD 60, making it a convenient option if you're traveling with multiple passengers or luggage; alternatively, check out the local bus service (Christchurch Airport to the City) for a more economical choice at around NZD 8.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Christchurch.

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The distance between Wellington and Christchurch is approximately 307.4 km. The travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes to reach Christchurch from Wellington. Alternatively, taking a ferry and then a bus can take around 10 hours and 5 minutes. The fastest option is by plane, which takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to travel from Wellington to Christchurch.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Wellington to Christchurch in New Zealand is by flying. It takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and the ticket prices range from $35 to $160. Taking a flight is not only the quickest option but also provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Ferry and bus or train options take much longer, with travel times of around 10 hours or more, making flying the preferred choice for most travelers.
The prices for a train journey from Wellington to Christchurch range from $88 to $138, depending on the class and type of service chosen.
To travel from Wellington to Christchurch without a car, the best option is to take a ferry from Wellington to Picton, and then a bus from Picton to Christchurch. This journey takes approximately 10 hours and 5 minutes and can cost between $60 and $95. Another option is to take a train, which takes 10 hours and 24 minutes but can provide a scenic route. Flying is the fastest option, taking only 2 hours and 45 minutes, but it may be more expensive.
There is no direct train link between Wellington and Christchurch. However, there are services available that require transfers. The journey typically takes approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes, including transfers in Picton. The train services operated by Interislander depart from Wellington - Central station and arrive at Christchurch station, operated by KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific.
The flight between Wellington and Christchurch typically takes approximately 50 minutes. The duration may vary slightly depending on the airlines and specific flight schedule. In terms of cost, flight prices range from $36 to $158, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and class of travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Christchurch with over 597 hotels available. These hotels offer a range of prices starting at $40, catering to different budgets and preferences.