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Auckland, Auckland Region to Wellington, Wellington from $42: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Wellington, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Wellington: 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.

$42 by busBest price
306.7 milesDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Wellington 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
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$90-339
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
12h  35m
Estimated price
$42-72
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 306.7 miles
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$97-319
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  26m
Estimated price
$110-160
Company
KiwiRail - Northern Explorer
Train
Average Duration
12h 
Estimated price
$132-172
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$206-514
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Traveling From Auckland to Wellington

A journey from Auckland to Wellington offers you a snapshot of New Zealand's diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures, showcasing Auckland's bustling city life alongside Wellington's artistic charm and stunning waterfront.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wellington

Wellington's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and attractions for travelers.

Te Aro
• Home to vibrant cafes and restaurants.
• Features the iconic Cuba Street with its artsy vibe.
Mt. Victoria
• Offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
• Great walking trails and lush green parks.
Thorndon
• Rich in historical architecture and heritage sites.
• Close to the bustling Parliament and Botanic Gardens.

Best Times To Visit Wellington's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Wellington's key attractions.

Te Papa Tongarewa
Visiting on weekdays, especially mid-morning, avoids large tour groups.
Wellington Botanic Garden
Early mornings or late afternoons offer peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.
Cuba Street
Explore during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and local shops.

Wellington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wellington experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. While the weather can be changeable, generally visiting during the spring and autumn not only showcases the city's natural beauty but also avoids the peak tourist rush.

Dining Recommendation in Wellington

Consider trying the renowned green-lipped mussels at the waterfront restaurant, Zealandia; their fresh, locally sourced seafood highlights Wellington's coastal influence, which differs from Auckland's more diverse culinary scene. The intimate atmosphere, featuring stunning views of the harbor, provides a uniquely Wellington experience that celebrates the flavors of the region.

Auckland - Wellington operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+64 9 366 6400
Website
at.govt.nz

Train from Kingsland Train Station to Newmarket Train Station

Average Duration
11m
Estimated price
1-2

Train from Newmarket Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
1-3
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Wellington

Average Duration
10h 40m
Estimated price
130-170
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
40-70
Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
130-320
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Wellington Airport (WLG)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
75-200
Website
airchathams.co.nz

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Paraparaumu (PPQ)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
24-290
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Contact phone
+64 4 296 1111
Website
paraparaumutaxis.co.nz

Other from Paraparaumu to Wellington

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
170-210

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

Traveling between Auckland and Wellington 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 an epic road trip from Auckland to Wellington spanning 401 miles, with approximately 7 hours and 26 minutes of driving time to enjoy the scenic journey through New Zealand's North Island. 💵 Prices to travel by car from Auckland to Wellington range from $110 to $160, offering flexibility to choose a budget-friendly option or indulge in a more luxurious ride for a comfortable and convenient journey across the island.
Average price
$110 - $160
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Auckland to Wellington, taking approximately 12 hours. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand passing by. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train ride between Auckland and Wellington range from $132 to $172, offering a budget-friendly travel option to explore both cities. 🚉 Route 1 presents a convenient way to reach Wellington in 11 hours and 14 minutes, covering a distance of 677 km with one transfer at Papakura. Travelers can enjoy a smooth transition between trains for a hassle-free journey.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Auckland to Wellington, consider opting for the KiwiRail Scenic Journeys service. They offer a range of catering options including a delicious food service available in the café car, where you can purchase hot meals, snacks, and beverages. Don’t forget to try their local New Zealand wines and cheeses for a true taste of the region.
• The operator for this route is KiwiRail's Northern Explorer. They provide comfortable seating options that include Premium Class and Economy Class. Premium Class seats come with extra legroom, complimentary drink service, and priority boarding, while Economy Class offers standard seating with the ability to choose window or aisle seats. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for the best experience!
• Upon arriving at Wellington’s train station (Wellington Railway Station), you'll find it convenient to leave any luggage at the station’s left luggage facility, allowing you to explore the city unencumbered. The station is well-equipped with clean restrooms, but there are no shower facilities available. An excellent tip for navigating the station is to take a moment to appreciate its stunning architecture and historical significance.
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Auckland to Wellington by taking a direct flight, which only takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both Jetstar and Air New Zealand provide convenient flight options from Auckland Airport to Wellington Airport.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Wellington Airport
🚌 When traveling from Auckland City to Wellington by bus, it's important to note that there is no direct route available. Instead, passengers can expect a journey that involves transfers and lasts approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes. 🌿 The bus service departing from Auckland - Central station and arriving at Wellington - Central is operated by InterCity. The scenic route covers a distance of 587 km and offers travelers a comfortable way to reach their destination in Wellington. 💰 Ticket prices for the Auckland to Wellington bus route can range from $42 to $72, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore the beautiful cities of New Zealand. Travelers can contact InterCity for more information on schedules and bookings.
Departure Point
Auckland - Central station
Arrival Point
Wellington - Central station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Wellington.

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The distance between Auckland and Wellington is approximately 307 miles by road. It takes about 12 hours to travel by train from Auckland to Wellington. If you choose to take a train and then fly, the travel time is about 3 hours and 35 minutes. By car, it takes around 7 hours and 26 minutes to reach Auckland from Wellington, while a bus journey from Auckland to Wellington takes approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Auckland City to Wellington is by bus, which typically costs between $40 and $75. However, this option also takes the longest amount of time, with a travel time of 12 hours and 35 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest option is to take a train and then fly, which typically costs between $50 and $210 and takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. Therefore, if time is a priority, the train and fly combination would be the most time-efficient option.
The price range for a train ticket from Auckland to Wellington is between $52 and $132. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket from Wellington to Auckland can range from $42 to $72. It is important to consider these varying prices when planning your travel budget for the journey between the two cities.
If you prefer not to use public transportation to travel from Auckland to Wellington, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 401 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 26 minutes to drive from Auckland to Wellington. The cost of driving may vary, but the prices for car rentals range from $110 to $160.
The best way to travel from Auckland to Wellington without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 12 hours and can range in price from $50 to $140. The train ride offers scenic views along the way and is a comfortable option for those who prefer not to drive.
Yes, there is a direct link between Auckland and Wellington, but it is not available by bus. The bus services from Auckland City to Wellington require transfers and take approximately 12 hours and 35 minutes. However, there are other modes of transportation available such as trains, which take 12 hours, and flights which take around 3 hours and 35 minutes with a train connection.
The flight between Auckland and Wellington typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of a flight ticket can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability, but it typically ranges between $100 to $200. It is advisable to book the flight in advance to get the best prices and options.
There are various accommodation options available near Wellington. With over 195 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something suitable for their budget and preferences. Prices start at $67 per night, ensuring there is something available for every traveler's budget. It is advisable to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from Auckland

Trips to Wellington