Dunedin, Otago to Te Anau, Southland from $35: 2 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Dunedin to Te Anau: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$35 by busBest price

292 kmDistance

3h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dunedin to Te Anau 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.

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Traveling From Dunedin to Te Anau

Your journey from vibrant Dunedin, known for its rich Scottish heritage and bustling urban life, to the serene landscapes of Te Anau, a gateway to stunning Fiordland National Park, promises a delightful contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Te Anau

Te Anau features charming neighborhoods that highlight its natural beauty and community spirit.

Te Anau Town Centre

• Close to dining and shopping options

• Scenic views of Lake Te Anau

Manapouri

• Gateway to Doubtful Sound tour departures

• Picturesque lakeside setting with stunning mountains

Te Anau Downs

• Ideal for accessing Fiordland National Park

• Tranquil atmosphere with beautiful landscapes

Best Times To Visit Te Anau's Attractions

Te Anau offers spectacular experiences that shine during specific times of the year.

Milford Sound

Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer visitors and stunning light.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Evening tours reveal the enchanting glowworms at their brightest.

Fiordland National Park

Spring and autumn provide fewer crowds and vibrant, changing scenery.

Te Anau Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Te Anau experiences a temperate maritime climate, with four distinct seasons that can influence your travel plans. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your exploration of the area's stunning landscapes.

Dining in Te Anau: A Culinary Adventure

While Dunedin delights with its diverse café culture and hearty pub fare, Te Anau invites you to savor fresh salmon at the local favorite, The Red Cliff Café. Here, the stunning lakeside setting and focus on locally sourced ingredients create a dining experience that emphasizes the flavors of the region in a more tranquil atmosphere.

Dunedin - Te Anau operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+64 9 583 5780

Website

https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Dunedin to Frankton Bus Interchange

Average Duration

4h 41m

Estimated price

25-40

Contact phone

+64 9 583 5790

Website

https://www.greatsights.co.nz/new-zealand-tours/

Bus from Frankton Bus Interchange to Te Anau

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

370-371

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dunedin to Te Anau.

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The distance between Dunedin and Te Anau is 223.7 km by air and 291.6 km by road. The travel time by car is approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes. On the other hand, if you prefer to take the bus, the travel time is about 7 hours and 51 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Dunedin to Te Anau is by bus, with prices ranging from $35 to $55. Although it takes longer, approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes, it is a more budget-friendly option. However, if time is a concern, driving is the most time-efficient option, taking around 3 hours and 26 minutes. The cost of driving ranges from $50 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle maintenance.

The prices for a bus ticket between Te Anau and Dunedin can range from $36 to $55.

To get from Dunedin to Te Anau without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent one. The distance between the two cities is approximately 291.3 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 26 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car can vary between $50 to $75, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company.

The best way to travel from Dunedin to Te Anau without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes and the cost is between $35 and $55.

There is no direct transportation link between Dunedin and Te Anau. However, you can reach Te Anau from Dunedin by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes and includes transfers at Frankton Bus Interchange. The bus services are operated by InterCity and GreatSights.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Te Anau. With over 104 hotels to choose from, you should have no trouble finding one that fits your budget and preferences. Prices start at $46 per night, offering a range of options for different travelers.