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Auckland, Auckland Region to Cairns, Queensland from $152: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Auckland to Cairns: 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.

$152 - PlaneBest price
3623 kmDistance
5h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Cairns 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  46m
Estimated price
$202-713
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  2m
Estimated price
$152-750
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3623 km
Duration: 5h 40m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
17h  10m
Estimated price
$311-784
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
14h  46m
Estimated price
$381-760
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Traveling From Auckland to Cairns

This journey offers a chance to transition from Auckland's vibrant urban landscape and cultural richness to Cairns' tropical allure and gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

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

Cairns Esplanade
• Picturesque waterfront with stunning sunset views.
• Vibrant markets and street performances year-round.
Palm Cove
• Known for its upscale resorts and tranquil beaches.
• Lush palm trees and boutique dining options abound.
South Cairns
• Home to the local art scene and community events.
• Close proximity to attractions like the Cairns Botanic Gardens.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Cairns' popular spots.

Great Barrier Reef
Early morning tours offer fewer crowds and calm waters for snorkeling.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Weekdays in the shoulder seasons provide a quieter, scenic journey.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and heat.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The dry season, from May to October, generally offers the best conditions for exploring beaches and the Great Barrier Reef.

Dining Recommendation in Cairns

For a taste of the local scene, try the barramundi fish and chips at Rusty's Market, where fresh catch and vibrant flavors create a contrasting experience to Auckland’s urban dining. The lively atmosphere and use of native ingredients deliver a distinct sense of place that makes every bite feel like an adventure.

Auckland - Cairns operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$310-800

Plane from Kerikeri (KKE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
19h 15m
Estimated price
$290-750

Plane from Whangarei (WRE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
10h 55m
Estimated price
$290-750
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$360-750

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$380-850

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
9h 20m
Estimated price
$300-850
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Kerikeri (KKE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
15h 20m
Estimated price
$290-750
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
9h 40m
Estimated price
$190-700
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Whangarei

Average Duration
2h 49m
Estimated price
$18-35

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

Traveling between Auckland and Cairns 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.

🛫 Experience a seamless journey from Auckland to Cairns with a quick direct flight taking only 5 hours and 40 minutes. Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand, and Qantas are some airlines that operate on this route, ensuring a variety of options for travelers. 🌴 Upon arrival in Cairns after a 9 hours and 46 minutes flight, you can enjoy the tropical paradise that this Australian city has to offer. From the Great Barrier Reef to lush rainforests, Cairns is a nature lover's delight with plenty of activities to explore. 💸 Keep an eye out for flight deals as prices for a trip between Cairns and Auckland can range between $202 to $713. With good planning, you can find affordable options to make your journey between these two beautiful destinations budget-friendly.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Cairns.

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The distance between Auckland and Cairns is approximately 2253 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you take a bus to Kerikeri and then fly, it takes approximately 18 hours and 20 minutes to reach Cairns from Auckland. If you choose to fly directly, the travel time is approximately 9 hours and 46 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Auckland to Cairns is to fly. The flight takes approximately 9 hours and 46 minutes and the cost can range from $240 to $500. This is both the quickest and cheapest way to reach Cairns from Auckland, offering a convenient and comfortable journey.
The flight between Auckland and Cairns typically takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $242 and $493, depending on factors like the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal for this route.
There are over 711 hotels available in Cairns for accommodation start at $73 per night. In Cairns, you can find a range of options including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget accommodations, and cozy guesthouses. It is recommended to research and compare different hotels based on their location, amenities, and reviews to find the one that suits your preferences and budget.

Trips from Auckland