Invercargill, Southland to Te Anau, Southland from $26: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$26 - OtherBest price

156 kmDistance

1h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from Invercargill to Te Anau offers a fascinating contrast between the urban charm of a bustling city and the serene beauty of breathtaking landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Te Anau

Te Anau features inviting neighborhoods that enhance any travel experience.

Te Anau Town Centre

• Vibrant hub with shops, cafes, and local eateries.

• Proximity to the stunning Lake Te Anau.

Dark Sky Island

• Ideal for stargazing and night sky photography.

• Home to unique lodges and retreat options.

Fiordland National Park Area

• Access to incredible hiking trails and scenic views.

• Close to Milford Sound excursions and activities.

Best Times To Visit Te Anau's Attractions

Timing your visit to Te Anau's attractions can elevate your experience and minimize crowds.

Milford Sound

Visit early in the morning for fewer tourists and breathtaking morning light.

Eglinton Valley

Spring offers vibrant wildflowers and stunning landscapes, perfect for photography.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Late afternoon tours provide a magical ambiance as darkness falls.

Te Anau Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Te Anau experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cool winters offering varying landscapes year-round. Consider visiting during the summer months for pleasant weather or fall for stunning autumn colors, as weather conditions significantly influence outdoor activities and experiences.

Dining Recommendation

Try the fresh blue cod fish and chips from The Fat Duck Café in Te Anau, where the laid-back atmosphere and focus on locally-sourced seafood create a delightful contrast to the more traditional fare found in Invercargill. This coastal dish brings out the fresh flavors of the region, providing a unique dining experience that celebrates the stunning natural bounty of Fiordland.

Invercargill - Te Anau operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+64 27 4497 994

Website

https://www.catchabussouth.com/

Bus from Invercargill to Queenstown

Average Duration

3h 15m

Estimated price

NZ$30-45

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

NZ$12-19

Invercargill to Te Anau: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Invercargill and Te Anau 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 bus travellers

• Book your tickets in advance with Catch-A-Bus South (catchabus.co.nz) or GreatSights (greatsights.co.nz) to ensure you get a seat for the Invercargill to Te Anau route, especially during peak travel times.

• When you arrive at the Millennium and Frankton Bus Interchange, pay close attention to the signs and announcements for the transfer to Te Anau, as buses may depart from different platforms during your connection.

• Upon arriving at Te Anau station, take a moment to explore the visitor center located nearby, which can provide valuable information about local attractions and dining options. It's a great spot to pick up brochures and ask about transport links for your next destination.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Invercargill and Te Anau is 121 km by direct route, while the road distance is 157 km. Typically, it takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes to travel from Te Anau to Invercargill by car. On the other hand, the bus journey from Invercargill to Te Anau usually takes around 6 hours and 46 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Invercargill to Te Anau is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes to cover the distance of 121 km by car. The cost for this mode of transportation ranges from $26 to $40.

When traveling from Invercargill to Te Anau in New Zealand, the prices for a bus ticket can range from $50 to $68.

To travel from Invercargill to Te Anau without using public transportation, you can drive the 156 km distance between the two locations. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes by car. Depending on factors such as vehicle type and fuel prices, the cost of the trip can range from $26 to $40.

The most convenient way to travel from Invercargill to Te Anau without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 46 minutes and the ticket prices range from $45 to $70.

Yes, there is a connection between Invercargill and Te Anau, although there is no direct bus route. Travelers can take a bus from Invercargill to Millennium and then transfer to another bus at Frankton Bus Interchange, which will take them to Te Anau. The total travel time for this journey is approximately 6 hours and 46 minutes, including transfers. Catch-A-Bus South and GreatSights are the bus operators for this route.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Te Anau with over 104 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $46 per night, providing options for various budgets.