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Christchurch, Canterbury to Cairns, Queensland from $140: 2 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Christchurch, New Zealand
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Christchurch 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.

$140 - PlaneBest price
3914 kmDistance
11h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Christchurch 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
11h  28m
Estimated price
$143-493
Recommended
route map
Distance: 3914 km
Duration: 11h 28m

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Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
19h  55m
Estimated price
$383-812
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Traveling From Christchurch to Cairns

The journey from Christchurch to Cairns takes you from the serene landscapes of New Zealand's South Island to the vibrant atmosphere of Australia's tropical paradise.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Cairns Esplanade
• Lively boardwalk with stunning ocean views.
• Hosts markets, events, and outdoor activities.
Port Douglas
• Access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
• Charming village vibe with boutique shopping and dining.
Palm Cove
• Beautiful, palm-fringed beach ideal for relaxation.
• Upscale resorts and spa options attract luxury travelers.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Cairns's top spots.

Great Barrier Reef
Early morning tours offer calmer waters and fewer tourists.
Daintree Rainforest
Visit in the late afternoon for cooler temps and vibrant wildlife.
Cairns Night Markets
Weekday evenings are less crowded, making for a relaxed shopping experience.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons; visiting between May and October offers the best weather for outdoor activities. Understanding the seasonal changes can greatly influence your travel plans and overall enjoyment.

Dining Recommendation in Cairns

Don't miss out on trying the barramundi at Tahuna Beach Club, where the fresh catch showcases the bold flavors of tropical Australia. This vibrant dining spot offers a lively atmosphere and an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients, contrasting with Christchurch's more subdued culinary scene.

Christchurch - Cairns operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
8h 30m
Estimated price
1430-1431

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
8h 57m
Estimated price
1432-1433

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
1434-1433

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
1430-1431

Plane from Hokitika to Cairns

Average Duration
15h 45m
Estimated price
340-1435

Plane from Hokitika to Cairns

Average Duration
21h
Estimated price
350-1436
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
15h 45m
Estimated price
1437-1431

Plane from Hokitika to Cairns

Average Duration
19h 10m
Estimated price
320-1436

Plane from Hokitika to Cairns

Average Duration
20h 55m
Estimated price
300-1435

Plane from Hokitika to Cairns

Average Duration
21h
Estimated price
310-1436
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Christchurch to Cairns

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
140-1438

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

Traveling between Christchurch 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.

🛫 Travelers flying from Christchurch to Cairns can expect a journey with one stopover. The quickest flight duration is 7 hours and 45 minutes, offering a convenient route between the two destinations. 🌏 Airlines such as Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and Qantas operate flights on this route, providing travelers with options to choose from. The total travel time to reach Cairns from Christchurch by plane is approximately 11 hours and 28 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Cairns and Christchurch can vary, with fares ranging from $143 to $493. Keep an eye out for deals and promotions to secure an affordable and enjoyable trip between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Christchurch Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport. The quickest flight takes 7h 45m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Since there are no direct flights from Christchurch to Cairns, plan your stopover wisely; the most common layover city is Brisbane, so ensure sufficient transfer time to avoid missing connecting flights, ideally 2 hours.
• Upon arrival at Cairns Airport (CNS), be prepared for the customs process; have your travel documents and declarations ready, as it can be busy, especially during peak travel times, and make sure to know the local timezone difference (Cairns is 2 hours behind Christchurch).
• Expect to pay around AUD $25-$35 for a taxi ride from Cairns Airport to the city center; alternatively, you can book a shuttle service in advance for a more economical option and check local transport schedules on the Cairns Airport website at cairnsairport.com.au

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Christchurch to Cairns.

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The distance between Christchurch and Cairns is approximately 2432 miles. The typical travel time by shuttle and then flying is around 20 hours and 22 minutes. Alternatively, if you choose to fly directly from Christchurch to Cairns, the typical travel time is around 11 hours and 39 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Christchurch to Cairns is to fly. The flight takes approximately 11 hours and 39 minutes and usually costs between $280 and $400. This is both the quickest and cheapest way to cover the distance of about 2,432 miles between the two cities.
The flight duration between Christchurch and Cairns can vary depending on the specific flight and layover times, but the quickest flight typically takes around 7 hours and 55 minutes with one stopover. It is important to note that there are no direct flights available for this route. The cost of a flight between Cairns and Christchurch can vary between $283 and $393, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms for the most up-to-date prices and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Cairns over 711 hotels to choose from, you will likely find something that suits your budget and preferences. Prices start at $73 per night for a stay in Cairns, and there are options ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you prefer to stay in the city center or near the beach, you should have no trouble finding a suitable place to stay in Cairns.

Trips from Christchurch