1map logoGo to main page

Christchurch, Canterbury to Punakaiki, West Coast from $48: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Christchurch, New Zealand
to
Punakaiki, New Zealand

How to Get from Christchurch to Punakaiki: 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.

$48 by carBest price
287.8 kmDistance
3h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Christchurch to Punakaiki 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
KiwiRail - TranzAlpine
Train
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$153-170
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$48-76
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 287.8 km
Duration: 3h 25m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  54m
Estimated price
$52-68
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$112-258

Traveling From Christchurch to Punakaiki

The journey from Christchurch to Punakaiki offers a striking contrast: urban sophistication gives way to rugged coastal beauty and extraordinary natural wonders.

Best Neighbourhoods in Punakaiki

Punakaiki boasts charming neighborhoods that highlight its stunning scenery and attractions.

Punakaiki Village
• Close to the Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
• Offers a range of cozy accommodations.
Pororari River Track
• Scenic hiking along the Pororari River.
• Abundant wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes.
Punakaiki Scenic Reserve
• Stunning coastal views and rich biodiversity.
• Ideal for nature walks and photography.

Best Times To Visit Punakaiki's Attractions

Discovering Punakaiki is best done by timing your visits to its iconic sites just right.

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and optimal tidal displays.
Pororari River Track
Explore during weekdays to enjoy serene hiking and stunning views.
Punakaiki Scenic Reserve
Early evening offers beautiful light for photography and fewer visitors.

Punakaiki Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Punakaiki features a mild, temperate climate with frequent rainfall, making it lush and vibrant throughout the year. Visiting during the warmer months from December to March usually provides better conditions for outdoor adventures, while understanding the weather nuances can enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Punakaiki

Try the freshly caught blue cod at the Punakaiki Tavern, where the coastal atmosphere and ocean views create a relaxed dining experience that contrasts sharply with the urban culinary scene in Christchurch. The use of local ingredients and simple, yet wholesome flavors makes each bite a true taste of the West Coast.

Christchurch - Punakaiki operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
https://www.kiwirail.co.nz/

Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
NZ$143-143
Shuttle
Contact phone
+64 27 201 8825
Website
https://www.eastwestcoaches.co.nz/

Shuttle from Christchurch International Airport to Punakaiki

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
NZ$48-65

Shuttle from Kumara Junction to Punakaiki

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$32-43
Plane
Website
https://www.airnewzealand.com/

Plane from Christchurch International Airport to Hokitika

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
NZ$38-163