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Auckland, Auckland Region to Kaikoura, Canterbury from $69: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Kaikoura, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Kaikoura: 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.

$69 by busBest price
628 kmDistance
6h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Kaikoura 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
Drive
Average Duration
6h  25m
Estimated price
$97-258
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$69-221
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 628 km
Duration: 6h 25m

See more options

Company
InterCity
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
18h  52m
Estimated price
$98-163
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  36m
Estimated price
$127-478
Company
KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific
Train
Drive
Average Duration
18h  51m
Estimated price
$314-970
Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Train
Average Duration
19h  26m
Estimated price
$971-972
Company
Various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
12h  53m
Estimated price
$973-974
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Auckland to Kaikoura

Auckland offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with its bustling cities and cultural scenes, while Kaikoura captivates you with breathtaking coastal views and the chance to connect with nature through marine wildlife encounters.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kaikoura

Kaikoura features charming neighborhoods that each offer a distinct experience.

Kaikoura Town
• Close to restaurants and shops.
• Easy access to whale-watching tours.
South Bay
• Scenic views of the coastline.
• Great for kayaking and hiking.
Whalers Bay
• Perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
• Offers stunning sunset vistas.

Best Times To Visit Kaikoura's Attractions

Timing your visit can make a huge difference in your experience in Kaikoura.

Whale Watching Tours
Consider morning tours for calmer seas and fewer crowds.
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and tranquil views.
Seal Colony at Point Kean
Go early morning or late afternoon to observe seals at their most active.

Kaikoura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kaikoura experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. For the best outdoor activities, consider visiting during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasantly mild and the scenery is captivating.

Dining in Kaikoura: A Taste of the Coast

Don't miss the chance to savor the local crayfish at the Kaikoura Seafood BBQ, where you can enjoy fresh flavors in a relaxed, seaside atmosphere that differs greatly from Auckland's bustling dining scene. The emphasis on locally sourced seafood combined with stunning ocean views creates a memorable culinary experience that highlights the region’s natural bounty.

Auckland - Kaikoura operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland Airport to Nelson Airport

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2581-2582

Plane from Auckland Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$2583-971

Plane from Auckland Airport to Blenheim Airport

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2581-2582
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Auckland Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$2584-2585
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Blenheim to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$2583-2586

Train from Picton to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$975-2588
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Wellington

Average Duration
10h 40m
Estimated price
$2589-979
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$690-2584

Bus from Auckland - Central to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$2581-2587

Bus from Picton to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$691-2584
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$692-693
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$696-697

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

Traveling between Auckland and Kaikoura 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 convenient and efficient journey from Auckland to Kaikoura by taking a 1 hour and 30-minute direct flight from Auckland Airport to Nelson Airport. Air New Zealand provides this seamless travel option, ensuring a comfortable trip for passengers.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Nelson Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Air New Zealand, as they are the main operator for the Auckland to Nelson route, and check their flight schedules for the most convenient timings at airnz.co.nz
• Once you arrive at Nelson Airport, be prepared for a scenic yet slightly rural setting—there are no major cities nearby, and be sure to check local transport options before landing at nelsonairport.co.nz
• Expect taxi fares from Nelson Airport to the Kaikoura city center to be approximately NZD 200-250. It’s advisable to book in advance through local taxi services like Nelson Taxis (nelsontaxis.co.nz) to ensure availability.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Kaikoura.

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The distance between Auckland and Kaikoura is approximately 390 miles. One common way to travel from Auckland to Kaikoura is by flying to Nelson first and then driving the remaining distance. This journey typically takes about 6 hours and 25 minutes. Other modes of transportation, such as driving the entire way or taking a bus or train, may have different travel times.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Auckland to Kaikoura is by flying and taking a bus, which can range from $65 to $230 and takes approximately 7 hours and 43 minutes. However, if time efficiency is the priority, the fastest option is to fly and drive, with a travel time of 6 hours and 25 minutes and costing between $95 to $260. Both options offer a convenient and relatively affordable way to reach Kaikoura from Auckland.
To travel from Auckland to Kaikoura without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and ferry, which takes approximately 18 hours and 52 minutes. This route provides a scenic journey through New Zealand's beautiful landscapes and costs between $95 to $170 depending on the type of service chosen. The bus and ferry combination offers a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Kaikoura from Auckland for travelers looking to explore the country without having to drive.
The quickest direct flight from Auckland Airport to Nelson Airport takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Nelson, you would need to drive to Kaikoura, which typically takes around 2-3 hours, making the total travel time approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours by air and road. The cost of a one-way flight from Auckland to Nelson can vary but typically ranges from $100 to $300 USD, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of tickets.
There are over 128 hotels available in Kaikōura offering a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Kaikōura start at $57 per night, providing affordable lodging choices for travelers. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday parks in the area, ensuring there are plenty of options for a comfortable stay near Kaikōura.

Trips from Auckland