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Brisbane, Queensland to Rotorua, Bay of Plenty from $149: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Brisbane, Australia
to
Rotorua, New Zealand

How to Get from Brisbane to Rotorua: 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.

$149 - Train, FlyBest price
2477 kmDistance
8h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Brisbane to Rotorua 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
Taxi
Average Duration
8h  13m
Estimated price
$263-565
Recommended
Company
Translink, various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
10h  43m
Estimated price
$149-463
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2477 km
Duration: 8h 13m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
10h  31m
Estimated price
$208-2630
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$278-587
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  56m
Estimated price
$314-817
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Traveling From Brisbane to Rotorua

Traveling from Brisbane to Rotorua offers a captivating contrast between Brisbane's vibrant city life and Rotorua's geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rotorua

Rotorua offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinct character and charm.

Government Gardens
• Beautiful historic park with stunning gardens
• Close to cultural attractions and the lake
Fenton Street
• Top choice for budget-friendly accommodations
• Easy access to geothermal parks and spas
Ohinemutu
• Rich in Māori culture and heritage
• Picturesque lakeside views and traditional buildings

Best Times To Visit Rotorua's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Rotorua's unique attractions.

Te Puia
Visit early morning to enjoy guided tours with fewer crowds.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Access in the afternoon for the best light on vibrant geothermal features.
Redwoods Treewalk
Enjoy a twilight visit for magical views as the sun sets.

Rotorua Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rotorua experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during spring and autumn allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds, while the occasional rain can enhance the vibrant green landscapes.

Dining in Rotorua: A Unique Taste Experience

Try the traditional Māori hangi, a feast cooked in an underground oven, at the renowned Tamaki Māori Village, which offers an authentic cultural experience that differs significantly from Brisbane's vibrant café scene. The smoky flavors and communal atmosphere highlight Rotorua's connection to its indigenous heritage, providing a distinctive culinary adventure.

Brisbane - Rotorua operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$2639-5650

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$5651-26360

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Taupo (TUO)

Average Duration
7h 36m
Estimated price
$5655-5656
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
$1492-1493

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$1494-5650
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$1495-5656
Train
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
https://translink.com.au/

Train from South Brisbane station, platform 1 to Varsity Lakes station, platform 2

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$4631-4632
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Manukau City to Tirau

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$4633-4634
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Contact phone
+64 7 866 7014
Website
coromandeladventures.co.nz

Other from Tirau to Rotorua

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$2638-4635
Contact phone
+64 7 578 7878
Website
taurangataxi.co.nz

Other from Tauranga to Rotorua

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$26370-26380

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

Traveling between Brisbane and Rotorua 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.

Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Brisbane to Rotorua, look for Jetstar, Qantas, or Air New Zealand, as they typically offer the most convenient one-stop options, often at competitive prices.
• Upon arrival at Rotorua Airport, be prepared for a small and user-friendly terminal; follow the signs for baggage claim and customs—it's straightforward, but keep your passport ready as it's a quick process.
• Expect taxi fares from Rotorua Airport to the city center to be around NZD 25 to NZD 35 (approximately AUD 23 to AUD 32), and consider pre-booking or using ride-sharing apps to avoid waiting times.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Brisbane to Rotorua.

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The distance between Brisbane and Rotorua is approximately 2477 km. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes 8 hours and 13 minutes to reach Rotorua from Brisbane by flying to Tauranga and then taking a taxi. Alternatively, it takes 8 hours and 56 minutes to fly directly from Brisbane to Rotorua.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Brisbane to Rotorua is by taking a bus and flying combination, which typically costs between $150 and $420. This option takes approximately 11 hours and 1 minute. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way is to fly and take a taxi, which takes around 8 hours and 13 minutes and costs between $460 and $900.
The flight distance between Brisbane and Rotorua is approximately 2477 km. The typical travel time by plane is around 8 hours and 56 minutes. However, there are no direct flights from Brisbane Airport to Tauranga Airport, so the quickest option would involve a stopover, which could take around 5 hours and 20 minutes. The cost of a flight between Rotorua and Brisbane can vary from $314 to $867.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Rotorua with over 313 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $82 per night.

Trips from Brisbane