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Wellington to Napier from $27: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Napier, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington to Napier: 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.

$27 by busBest price
268.4 kmDistance
3h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington to Napier 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
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$27-45
Recommended
route map
Distance: 268.4 km
Duration: 3h 38m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  3m
Estimated price
$44-100
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$78-200
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$114-277
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$133-270
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Traveling From Wellington to Napier

The journey from Wellington to Napier offers a fascinating shift from the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of the capital city to the laid-back charm of Napier, known for its stunning Art Deco architecture and picturesque coastal views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Napier

Napier features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Art Deco Historic District
• Stunning architecture from the 1930s.
• Home to vibrant cafes and boutiques.
Ahuriri
• Waterfront dining with unparalleled views.
• Popular for its relaxed beach atmosphere.
Taradale
• Rich in local wineries and vineyards.
• Convenient access to scenic cycle tracks.

Best Times To Visit Napier's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience in Napier's fantastic attractions.

National Aquarium of New Zealand
Visit early on weekdays for a quieter experience and personalized attention.
Napier Art Deco Trust
Join a guided tour during the off-season to enjoy detailed insights without the crowds.
Sunken Gardens
Visit during early mornings or late afternoons for peaceful strolls and beautiful light.

Napier Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Napier enjoys a temperate marine climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making it a delightful destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are typically during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are minimal, allowing for an enjoyable and relaxed travel experience.

Dining in Napier: A Taste of Local Flavor

The fish tacos at Napier’s renowned 'Mister D' provide a fresh coastal twist that sets them apart from Wellington's culinary scene, which often leans towards international flavors. This vibrant eatery not only showcases the best of local seafood but also offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to savor the true essence of the Hawke's Bay region.

Wellington - Napier operators

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

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
NZ$27-45

Bus from Palmerston North to Napier

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
NZ$19-35
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
https://greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Wellington to Palmerston North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$17-23
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
https://greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Wellington to Palmerston North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$45-60
Plane
Website
http://airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Napier (NPE)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
NZ$65-190

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Taupo (TUO)

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
NZ$90-310

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Gisborne (GIS)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$95-230

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Gisborne (GIS via Auckland)

Average Duration
3h 13m
Estimated price
NZ$95-230
Taxi
Contact phone
+64 7 378 5100
Website
http://taupotaxi.co.nz

Taxi from Taupo to Napier

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
NZ$26-32
Contact phone
+61 7 377 8990
Website
http://greatlaketaxis.co.nz

Taxi from Taupo to Napier

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Wellington and Napier 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 scenic road trip from coastal Wellington to the charming city of Napier, covering a distance of 326.7 km. 💰 Experience the flexibility of driving with prices ranging from $55 to $85 for the journey from Wellington to Napier, offering a budget-friendly travel option. 🌄 Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way as you make the 3-hour and 54-minute drive, soaking in the natural beauty of New Zealand's North Island on this memorable car journey.
Average price
$55 - $85
🛫 Flying from Wellington to Napier is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour. Air New Zealand provides flights between Wellington Airport and Napier Airport. ✈️ The total travel time for a flight from Wellington to Napier is approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Napier and Wellington can range from $78 to $200, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
Napier Airport
🚌 Hop on a convenient direct bus from Wellington - Central to Napier, operated by InterCity. Sit back and relax as you embark on a scenic journey that takes approximately 6 hours. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Wellington to Napier bus range from $27 to $45, offering you an affordable and convenient travel option to explore these charming destinations at your own pace.
Departure Point
Wellington - Central station
Arrival Point
Napier station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your ticket in advance through InterCity's website (intercity.co.nz), as there is only one daily service from Wellington to Napier, and prices can vary significantly from $27 to $45.
• Pack snacks and entertainment for the approximately 6-hour journey; enjoy the scenic views of the Hawke's Bay landscape while keeping yourself occupied with a good book or music.
• Upon arrival at Napier station, take advantage of local transport options—NZ Bus services are available to explore the downtown area and waterfront; check the schedules here: citylink.co.nz

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Napier.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Wellington and Napier is approximately 270 km by road. It takes about 6 hours and 3 minutes to travel from Wellington to Napier by train and then bus, while it takes around 3 hours and 38 minutes by plane. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes to reach Wellington from Napier by car. Lastly, traveling by bus from Napier to Wellington takes around 6 hours.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Wellington to Napier is by bus, which is priced at $26-$40 and takes around 6 hours. This option provides a budget-friendly choice for those looking to save money on their journey. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly, with a travel time of 3 hours and 38 minutes. Although it is a bit more expensive, ranging from $75 to $220, flying allows travelers to reach their destination in a shorter time.
The prices for a bus ticket between Wellington and Napier range from $26 to $40.
To travel from Wellington to Napier without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 327 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 54 minutes to reach Napier by car. The cost of renting a car or using your own vehicle can range from $55 to $85, depending on factors such as type of vehicle and fuel consumption.
The best way to travel from Wellington to Napier without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and costs between $26 and $40.
Yes, there is a direct link between Wellington and Napier in New Zealand. InterCity operates a daily bus service that departs from Wellington - Central station and arrives at Napier station. The journey takes approximately 6 hours.
The flight between Wellington and Napier typically takes around 1 hour, making it the quickest mode of transportation between the two cities. The prices for this flight route can range from $78 to $219, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Napier. With over 221 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Napier start at $97 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.

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