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Auckland, Auckland Region to Whakatane, Bay of Plenty from $27: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Whakatane, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Whakatane: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$27 by busBest price
233 kmDistance
2h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Whakatane 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  43m
Estimated price
$97-187
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
6h  59m
Estimated price
$27-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 233 km
Duration: 2h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  10m
Estimated price
$29-44
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$50-970
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  28m
Estimated price
$71-194
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Traveling From Auckland to Whakatane

The journey from Auckland to Whakatane takes you from a bustling urban center to a tranquil coastal town, offering you a delightful contrast between city life and stunning natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Whakatane

Whakatane features charming neighborhoods that highlight its coastal charm and culture.

Central Whakatane
• Vibrant local cafés and shops abound.
• Close to the stunning Whakatane River.
Ohope Beach
• Pristine beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
• Scenic walks with impressive ocean views.
Edgecumbe
• Quaint town with rich agricultural history.
• Easy access to local markets and fresh produce.

Best Times To Visit Whakatane's Attractions

Time your visits to Whakatane's attractions for a more enjoyable experience.

Whale Island (Moutohora)
Visit during early morning or late afternoon for peaceful tours and wildlife sightings.
Ohope Beach
Early mornings or weekdays offer quieter beach experiences and stunning sunrises.
Whakatane River Walkway
Spring and autumn weekends provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds to enjoy nature.

Whakatane Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Whakatane enjoys a mild, temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a lovely destination year-round. Late spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, while cooler months can provide a more relaxed atmosphere for enjoying local culture.

Dining in Whakatane: A Taste of Local Flavors

For a true taste of Whakatane, try the freshly caught fish and chips at the iconic Ohope Beach Takeaways, where the casual beachfront atmosphere provides a relaxing vibe different from Auckland’s bustling dining scene. The emphasis on local seafood and simple preparation highlights the freshness of the ingredients, offering you a distinct flavor profile that reflects the region's coastal charm.

Auckland - Whakatane operators

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

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

Train from Britomart Train Station to Puhinui Train Station

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
NZ$977-978
Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Whakatane (WHK)

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
NZ$975-976

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
NZ$45-974
Website
airchathams.co.nz

Plane from Auckland Airport to Whakatane Airport

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
NZ$975-976
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Auckland - Central to Whakatane

Average Duration
6h 59m
Estimated price
NZ$27-45

Bus from Auckland - Central to Tauranga

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
NZ$9772-9785
Contact phone
0800 4 229 287
Website
baybus.co.nz

Bus from Tauranga City - Wharf Street to Domain Rd Cemetery

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
NZ$979-1870
Drive

Drive from Auckland to Whakatāne

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
NZ$50-970

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

Traveling between Auckland and Whakatane 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.

Useful tips for car travellers
• Along State Highway 2 (SH2), which you'll be taking from Auckland to Whakatāne, gas stations are available approximately every 50 kilometers; expect to pay around NZD 2.30 to NZD 2.40 per liter, so plan your refueling stops accordingly.
• As you drive into Whakatāne, be aware that the town center has restricted traffic zones, especially near the waterfront; parking rates generally range from NZD 2 to NZD 5 per hour, or NZD 15 to NZD 25 for a full day, depending on the exact location.
• Upon arrival in Whakatāne, use the local 'Whakatāne District Council' website for parking maps to navigate through the available parking spots, and keep an eye out for any special events that might affect parking availability.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your bus ticket with either InterCity or Baybus in advance, as the journey takes nearly 7 hours and seats can sell out quickly; you can find more information and book tickets on their websites at InterCity and Baybus.
• Arriving at Domain Rd Cemetery station in Whakatane, be prepared to navigate the area; consider downloading a local map or using navigation apps, as the station is a bit isolated from the town center and local services.
• Bring some snacks and entertainment for the journey; while the bus does provide a comfortable ride, the trip can be long without sufficient breaks to stretch your legs or grab food on the way, so plan to keep yourself entertained throughout the approximately 6-hour trip.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Whakatane.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Auckland and Whakatāne is approximately 233 km. If you prefer to travel by train and then fly, the typical travel time is around 2 hours and 49 minutes. However, if you choose to drive by car, the journey usually takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus can take longer, with an average travel time of approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Auckland to Whakatane is by bus via Tauranga, which costs between $27 and $45 and takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to take a train and then fly, which takes around 2 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $95 and $170.
When traveling from Auckland to Whakatane, the prices for a bus ticket range from $27 to $40.
To travel from Auckland to Whakatane without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive. The road distance between the two cities is 296 km, and it typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to drive from Auckland to Whakatane. The cost of renting a car for this journey can range from $50 to $75, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle.
To travel from Auckland to Whakatāne without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Tauranga. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes and the cost ranges from $27 to $45. This route is convenient as it allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to Whakatāne.
Yes, there is a direct link between Auckland and Whakatane. InterCity operates a bus service that departs from Auckland - Central and arrives in Whakatane, with services running once daily. The journey by bus takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes.
The flight between Auckland and Whakatane typically takes 45 minutes. This direct flight is the quickest option available. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but typically it ranges between $100 to $200.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Whakatāne. With over 61 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget. Prices for hotels start at $54 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, you will find a variety of options in Whakatāne to make your stay comfortable.

Trips from Auckland