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Auckland, Auckland Region to Taupo, Waikato from $25: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Taupo, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Taupo: 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.

$25 by busBest price
275 kmDistance
2h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Taupo 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
Train
Plane
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$83-235
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
4h  49m
Estimated price
$25-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 275 km
Duration: 2h 51m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$72-232
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  19m
Estimated price
$83-213
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  33m
Estimated price
$104-208
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$830-831

Traveling From Auckland to Taupo

The journey from Auckland to Taupo offers you a striking contrast—from the bustling urban energy of New Zealand's largest city to the serene beauty of a lakeside town famed for its geothermal wonders.

Best Neighbourhoods in Taupo

Taupo features diverse neighborhoods that cater to various traveler experiences.

Taupo Town Centre
• Vibrant cafes and shops along the lakeside.
• Accessible walking paths with stunning lake views.
Five Mile Bay
• Family-friendly beaches perfect for swimming and picnics.
• Close proximity to outdoor activities and scenic trails.
Acacia Bay
• Quaint atmosphere with luxurious lakeside homes.
• Ideal for relaxation and beautiful sunset views.

Best Times To Visit Taupo's Attractions

Optimize your visit to Taupo’s highlights by timing your trips well.

Huka Falls
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty.
Lake Taupo
Weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience on the water, especially during summer.
Taupo Hot Springs
Late afternoon visits often allow for less crowded pools and relaxing ambiance.

Taupo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Taupo experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and summer months for warm, pleasant weather, while the cooler autumn and winter seasons offer a cozy atmosphere ideal for exploring geothermal attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Taupo

For a unique culinary experience, try the local favorite, whitebait fritters, at a cozy lakeside café like The Lake House. This dish, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, provides a delightful contrast to Auckland's vibrant and diverse dining scene, emphasizing Taupo's relaxed atmosphere and connection to regional flavors.

Auckland - Taupo operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Auckland - Central to Taupo

Average Duration
4h 49m
Estimated price
NZ$25-40

Bus from Rotorua Airport to Taupo

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
NZ$2351-8399

Bus from Hamilton - Central to Taupo

Average Duration
2h 14m
Estimated price
NZ$2352-23505
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+64 9 366 6400
Website
https://at.govt.nz/

Train from Britomart Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
NZ$839-2350
Contact phone
0800 205 305
Website
https://tehuiatrain.co.nz/

Train from The Strand Train Station to Hamilton Rotokauri

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane
Website
http://airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Taupo (TUO)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
NZ$830-834

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
NZ$830-835

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
NZ$830-836
Website
https://airchathams.co.nz/

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Whakatane (WHK)

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
NZ$837-838

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

Traveling between Auckland and Taupo 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Auckland to Taupō, covering a distance of 171 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive through New Zealand's stunning landscapes, taking approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel with car rental prices ranging from $45 to $70 for the journey from Auckland to Taupō. This cost-effective option allows you the flexibility to explore the charming town of Taupō at your own pace and convenience.
Average price
$45 - $70
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Auckland to Taupo, enjoy the onboard catering services offered by KiwiRail. They provide a selection of snacks and beverages, including coffee, tea, and light meals. Be sure to check out their menu, which includes locally-sourced food items that reflect New Zealand's culinary scene.
• Choose your seating wisely, as the train offers various class options. For a more comfortable experience, consider upgrading to Business Class, which features more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. Economy Class is also available and provides a cost-effective travel option, though it's a bit more basic. Check KiwiRail's website for availability (kiwirail.co.nz).
• When you arrive at Taupo Railway Station, there are a few amenities to keep in mind. The station offers restroom facilities, but if you need to leave your luggage, there's no dedicated luggage storage area. However, there are cafes nearby where you can grab a bite and enjoy a coffee as you plan your day. To get to Taupo's city center quickly, hop on the local bus Route 1, which has frequent service and takes about 15 minutes to cover the distance.
🛫 Hop on a quick and convenient flight from Auckland Airport to Taupo Airport with Air New Zealand. The direct flight takes only 50 minutes, making it a smooth journey from one stunning New Zealand destination to another.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Taupo Airport
🚌 Hop on the InterCity bus departing from Auckland - Central to Taupo, with services running twice daily every day. The journey will take you approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket from Taupo to Auckland ranges from $25 to $40, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for your journey between these two beautiful New Zealand cities.
Departure Point
Auckland - Central station
Arrival Point
Taupo station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance with InterCity at intercity.co.nz to ensure you get a seat for your direct bus from Auckland to Taupo, especially during weekends and holidays when services can fill up quickly.
• Prepare for picturesque views along the way by sitting on the right side of the bus to enjoy stunning landscapes, including Lake Taupo and the surrounding mountains, which will enhance your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Taupo, familiarize yourself with the Taupo Transport Hub by checking the station map, which can help you find local buses and other transport options to reach your final destination; additional information is available at the Taupo i-SITE tourist information center.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Taupo.

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The distance between Auckland and Taupo is approximately 147 miles by road. It takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes to travel by car from Taupo to Auckland. Alternatively, it takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes to reach Taupo from Auckland by taking a train and then a bus. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 4 hours and 49 minutes to travel from Auckland to Taupo.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Auckland to Taupo is by bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes and costs $24-$40. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination comfortably. However, if time efficiency is more important to you, the quickest way is to take a train and fly, which takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes and costs $80-$240. This option offers a faster travel time, but it may be more expensive. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on your personal priorities.
The prices for a bus ticket from Auckland to Taupo can range from $24 to $40. Prices may vary depending on the bus company and time of travel. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or booking platforms to compare prices and find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Auckland to Taupo without using public transportation, you can choose to drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 171 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of renting a car for this trip typically ranges from $45 to $70, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.
The best way to travel from Auckland to Taupo without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes and the cost ranges from $24 to $40. Buses provide a convenient and affordable option for transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between Auckland and Taupo. InterCity operates a bus service that departs from Auckland - Central station and arrives at Taupo station. The bus service runs twice daily, every day, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct mode of transportation between the two cities.
The flight between Auckland and Taupo typically takes around 50 minutes for a direct flight. However, it's important to note that flight durations can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. As for the cost, prices for flights between Auckland and Taupo can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get a better idea of the typical cost for this route.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Taupo. With 318+ hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $80, making it a fairly affordable destination for travelers. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, visitors to Taupo will have no trouble finding a comfortable place to stay.

Trips from Auckland