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Cairns, Queensland to Queenstown, Otago from $220: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Queenstown, New Zealand

How to Get from Cairns to Queenstown: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$220 - PlaneBest price
3806 kmDistance
8h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Queenstown 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
9h  36m
Estimated price
$229-504
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  36m
Estimated price
$220-550
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3806 km
Duration: 8h 18m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  18m
Estimated price
$223-900
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Traveling From Cairns to Queenstown

The journey from Cairns, with its tropical beaches and Great Barrier Reef adventures, to Queenstown, known for its stunning mountains and thrilling outdoor activities, offers a remarkable shift in scenery and experience.

Best Neighbourhoods in Queenstown

Queenstown features vibrant neighborhoods that cater to a variety of interests.

Lakefront
• Stunning views of Lake Wakatipu
• Direct access to walking and biking trails
Central Queenstown
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and restaurants
• Close proximity to adventure activities
Fern Hill
• Quaint, residential feel with scenic vistas
• Peaceful escape from the town's hustle

Best Times To Visit Queenstown's Attractions

Knowing the best times to explore Queenstown can enhance your experience significantly.

Skyline Queenstown
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds and enjoy stunning sunset views.
Milford Sound
Consider a weekday visit during off-peak seasons for a quieter, more serene experience.
Queenstown Gardens
Early spring or late autumn offers a peaceful stroll with beautiful seasonal blooms.

Queenstown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Queenstown experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers ideal for hiking and cool winters perfect for skiing. Being aware of the weather patterns can help you plan your activities and pack accordingly for a more enjoyable visit.

Dining Recommendation in Queenstown

Be sure to try the famous Fergburger, known for its juicy, gourmet burgers made with high-quality local ingredients—a true taste of New Zealand. The lively atmosphere and unique flavor profiles offered here stand in contrast to the tropical seafood dishes often found in Cairns, making for a memorable culinary experience.

Cairns - Queenstown operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
14h 15m
Estimated price
AU$340-2290
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
14h 15m
Estimated price
AU$340-2290

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Queenstown (ZQN) via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
AU$340-1000
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Queenstown (ZQN) via Brisbane

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
AU$220-900

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

Traveling between Cairns and Queenstown 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.

🌏 Flying from Cairns to Queenstown involves a stopover, making the journey approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes in duration. 💰 Depending on the time of booking and airlines selected, the prices for a flight between Queenstown and Cairns range from $229 to $504, with an average total journey time of 9 hours and 36 minutes.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Queenstown Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 40m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be prepared for a travel time of around 6h 40m, as flights from Cairns to Queenstown involve at least one layover, often in cities like Brisbane or Sydney, which can add to your total travel time significantly.
• Upon arriving at Queenstown Airport, consider using the airport's shuttle bus service for convenient transportation; it typically costs around NZD 10 to NZD 12 and drops you at major hotels in the city center, saving you the hassle of navigating local taxis.
• Check for any layover durations; while the quickest route may take 6h 40m, longer connections can push your journey to up to 9h 36m; booking through Jetstar (jetstar.com), Qantas (qantas.com), or Virgin Australia (virginaustralia.com) can lead to different layover times and prices, so compare options carefully.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Queenstown.

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The distance between Cairns and Queenstown is approximately 2365 miles. The typical travel time by plane from Cairns to Queenstown is 9 hours and 40 minutes. Other modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a ferry, would require a much longer travel time and are not as common for this route.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Queenstown is to fly. Flights from Cairns to Queenstown cost between $180 and $550 and have a travel time of approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes. This option provides both convenience and speed, allowing travelers to reach their destination quickly and efficiently. Other modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a ferry, would be more time-consuming and may not be as cost-effective.
The flight duration between Cairns and Queenstown varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights between Cairns Airport and Queenstown Airport. The cost of a flight between the two destinations typically ranges from $188 to $552, depending on various factors such as the airline, date of travel, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Queenstown. With over 958 hotels available, you have a wide range of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices typically start at $56 per night, providing options for every traveler. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly lodgings, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay near Queenstown.

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