1map logoGo to main page

Sydney, New South Wales to Rotorua, Bay of Plenty from $147: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sydney, Australia
to
Rotorua, New Zealand

How to Get from Sydney 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.

$147 by busBest price
2308 kmDistance
7h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sydney 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
7h  59m
Estimated price
$362-544
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
10h  22m
Estimated price
$147-373
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2308 km
Duration: 7h 59m

See more options

Company
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
8h  18m
Estimated price
$233-376
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  12m
Estimated price
$289-3620
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  49m
Estimated price
$297-386
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sydney to Rotorua

Embark on a journey from the vibrant cityscape of Sydney, with its iconic landmarks and bustling lifestyle, to Rotorua, where geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture create a serene and captivating experience.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rotorua

Rotorua boasts vibrant neighborhoods that reflect its rich culture and scenic beauty.

Ohinemutu
• Features stunning lakeside Maori cultural experiences.
• Home to traditional thermal springs and geysers.
Fenton Street
• Offers easy access to Rotorua's geothermal attractions.
• Packed with budget-friendly accommodations and eateries.
Government Gardens
• Beautiful parks and gardens with historic architecture.
• Ideal spot for relaxing and picnic near the lake.

Best Times To Visit Rotorua's Attractions

Discover the ideal times to explore Rotorua's captivating sites without the rush.

Te Puia
Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful exploration of geysers and Maori culture.
Redwoods Forest
Weekdays, early in the morning, provide quieter trails for hiking and biking.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Go during the school week for a less crowded experience at the vibrant geothermal landscape.

Rotorua Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rotorua enjoys a mild, temperate climate with distinct seasons, making it a year-round destination for travelers. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities, although be prepared for occasional rain, as it can influence your travel plans.

Dining Recommendation in Rotorua

Try the traditional hangi meal at Te Puia, where food is slow-cooked in the ground using geothermal heat, offering a distinct flavor and cooking style unlike anything in Sydney. This unique dining experience allows you to savor locally sourced ingredients while immersing yourself in Maori culture amidst stunning natural geothermal landscapes.

Sydney - Rotorua operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
6h 17m
Estimated price
$3628-3629

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
5h 2m
Estimated price
$5440-3624
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
$5446-5447

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$3621-5448
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
$1475-1476
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 7 866 7014
Website
coromandeladventures.co.nz

Other from Tirau to Rotorua

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$1477-1478
Contact phone
+64 7 578 7878
Website
taurangataxi.co.nz

Other from Tauranga to Rotorua

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1479-14770

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

Traveling between Sydney 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 Sydney to Rotorua typically involves a stopover due to the absence of direct flights from Sydney Airport to Tauranga Airport. The quickest flight option with one stopover lasts approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes. ✈️ Air New Zealand operates flights connecting Sydney Airport to Tauranga Airport, making it possible to reach the beautiful destination of Rotorua. The total flight duration from Sydney to Rotorua is around 8 hours and 18 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy in-flight entertainment and services. 💸 The cost of a flight between Rotorua and Sydney can vary between $233 to $376 depending on factors such as booking time, seat availability, and seasonal fluctuations.
Departure Point
Sydney Airport
Arrival Point
Tauranga Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 45m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Since there are no direct flights from Sydney to Rotorua, consider booking a flight that connects through Air New Zealand to Tauranga first, as it's one of the few operators on this route; make sure to check their website for the latest schedule: Air New Zealand.
• Upon arriving at Rotorua Airport, the arrival process is relatively smooth, but keep in mind that the airport is quite small; if you're renting a car, the rentals can be found directly across from the arrivals area, and if you're taking a shuttle or taxi, look for dedicated stands right outside.
• For your transportation, expect taxi fares from Rotorua Airport to the city center to be around NZD 20-30, so keep some cash handy or a credit card ready; for shuttle services and further transport options, visit Rotorua Airport's Transport Page.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sydney to Rotorua.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Sydney and Rotorua is approximately 1434 miles. For travel, there are two main options. Firstly, taking a flight from Sydney to Tauranga and then a taxi to Rotorua takes around 8 hours and 9 minutes. Secondly, a direct flight from Sydney to Rotorua takes around 8 hours and 53 minutes. These are the typical travel times for reaching Rotorua from Sydney using different modes of transportation.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Sydney to Rotorua would be to fly and take a night bus and shuttle, which would cost between $140 and $370. This option would take approximately 10 hours and 23 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then the quickest option would be to fly and take a taxi, which would cost between $350 and $550 and take approximately 8 hours and 9 minutes. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on the individual's specific preferences and priorities.
The flight between Sydney and Rotorua typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight from Sydney Airport to Tauranga Airport, so the flight will involve a stopover. The cost of a flight between Rotorua and Sydney can vary, ranging from $153 to $445. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms for the most up-to-date prices.
There are over 313 hotels available in Rotorua offering a range of options for different budgets and preferences. Prices for these hotels start at $82 per night. Some popular hotel choices near Rotorua include the Millennium Hotel, Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, and Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua. Visitors to Rotorua can easily find accommodation that suits their needs and explore the city's attractions and natural wonders.

Trips to Newcastle