1map logoGo to main page

Melbourne, Victoria to Rotorua, Bay of Plenty from $137: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Rotorua, New Zealand

How to Get from Melbourne 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.

$137 - Plane, DriveBest price
2746 kmDistance
8h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne 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  44m
Estimated price
$372-552
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  24m
Estimated price
$137-394
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2746 km
Duration: 8h 44m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  28m
Estimated price
$143-444
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
10h  52m
Estimated price
$177-3720
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  37m
Estimated price
$299-738
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Melbourne to Rotorua

The journey from Melbourne to Rotorua offers a fascinating contrast between Melbourne's vibrant urban culture and Rotorua's stunning geothermal landscapes and rich Maori heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rotorua

Rotorua boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and attractions.

Fenton Street
• Close to geothermal parks and attractions.
• Offers a variety of dining options.
Ohinemutu
• Features traditional Maori architecture.
• Stunning lakeside views and cultural experiences.
Government Gardens
• Home to beautiful historic buildings.
• Ideal for relaxing strolls and picnics.

Best Times To Visit Rotorua's Attractions

Timing your visit can make your Rotorua experience even more enjoyable.

Te Puia
Visit in the early morning for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
Redwoods Treewalk
Afternoon visits provide stunning light for photography as the sun sets.
Polynesian Spa
Weekdays are quieter, allowing for a more relaxing spa experience.

Rotorua Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rotorua enjoys a temperate climate with mild, wet winters and warm summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Rotorua

Experience the traditional hangi, a Maori cooking method that involves slow-cooked meats and vegetables in an underground oven, at the highly recommended eatery, Eat Street Rotorua. This dining experience not only immerses you in local flavors and ingredients but also contrasts with Melbourne's modern café scene, offering a taste of Rotorua's rich heritage.

Melbourne - Rotorua operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
9h 40m
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
8h 25m
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
9h 20m
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
7h 15m
Estimated price
$3728-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$3729-5520

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$5521-5522

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Hamilton (HLZ)

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$5524-5525

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Hamilton (HLZ)

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$5524-5522

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Hamilton (HLZ)

Average Duration
9h 25m
Estimated price
$5526-5522
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
$37270-5529

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$1370-1371

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$3722-1372

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
8h 50m
Estimated price
$1373-3725

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$1374-1375
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne (MEL) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
3h 32m
Estimated price
$1370-3940
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
$3941-3942
Contact phone
+64 7 866 7014
Website
coromandeladventures.co.nz

Bus from Tirau to Rotorua

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$3943-3944
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 7 578 7878
Website
taurangataxi.co.nz

Other from Tauranga to Rotorua

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$3722-1373

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

Traveling between Melbourne 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.

🛫 Flying from Melbourne to Rotorua typically involves a stopover as there is no direct flight from Melbourne Airport to Tauranga Airport. The quickest route takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes, with popular airlines like Jetstar, Qantas, and Air New Zealand offering flights for this journey. 🌏 After reaching Tauranga Airport, the total flight time to Rotorua from Melbourne is around 9 hours and 28 minutes. While the travel duration includes a layover, passengers can enjoy a smooth transition before continuing their journey to the beautiful destination of Rotorua. 💸 Prices for flights between Rotorua and Melbourne can vary, ranging from $143 to $444. Travelers can select from different fare options based on their budget and preferences, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable trip from Melbourne to the picturesque city of Rotorua.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Tauranga Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 30m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Rotorua.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Melbourne and Rotorua is approximately 1706 miles. The typical travel time by flight from Melbourne to Rotorua is around 9 hours and 28 minutes. Alternatively, one can also take a flight to Tauranga first and then a taxi to Rotorua, which would take approximately 8 hours and 44 minutes. These travel times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and the chosen mode of transportation.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Melbourne to Rotorua is to fly. This option typically costs between $140 and $420 and takes approximately 9 hours and 28 minutes. For a quicker journey, the most time-efficient option is to fly to Tauranga and then take a taxi, which costs between $360 and $550 and takes about 8 hours and 44 minutes. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on personal preferences and priorities.
The flight duration between Melbourne and Rotorua varies depending on the route and any stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of a flight between Rotorua and Melbourne ranges from $142 to $413. It is important to note that there is no direct flight from Melbourne Airport to Tauranga Airport, so travelers may need to consider a connecting flight or alternative modes of transportation.
There are a wide range of accommodation options available near Rotorua. With over 313 hotels to choose from, travellers can find a variety of options to suit their needs and budgets. Prices for hotels in Rotorua start at $82 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort, a budget-friendly hostel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, there are plenty of options to choose from in the Rotorua area.

Trips from Melbourne

Trips to Canberra