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Nelson, Nelson Region to Tauranga, Bay of Plenty from $109: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Nelson, New Zealand
to
Tauranga, New Zealand

How to Get from Nelson to Tauranga: 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.

$109 - Bus, FlyBest price
472 kmDistance
3h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Nelson to Tauranga 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
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$114-335
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$109-335
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 472 km
Duration: 3h 5m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  19m
Estimated price
$110-337
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
18h  27m
Estimated price
$163-236
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
11h  9m
Estimated price
$214-297
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Nelson to Tauranga

This journey between Nelson's stunning coastal views and Tauranga's vibrant city life offers a refreshing contrast between serene nature and urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tauranga

Tauranga offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Mount Maunganui
• Home to stunning beaches and surf spots.
• The iconic Mount track offers breathtaking views.
CBD Tauranga
• A vibrant hub of shops and restaurants.
• Cultural attractions include art galleries and theaters.
Otumoetai
• Family-friendly parks and playgrounds.
• Scenic views over Tauranga Harbour and Mount.

Best Times To Visit Tauranga's Attractions

Planning your visit around the crowds can enhance your Tauranga experience.

Mount Maunganui
Visit early mornings or late afternoons for stunning views and fewer people.
Tauranga Harbour
Late spring offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists for a relaxing stroll.
Waimarino Adventure Park
Weekdays during the school year provide a quieter, enjoyable experience.

Tauranga Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tauranga enjoys a mild maritime climate, making it a great destination year-round, with the warmest months being December to February. Understanding seasonal weather can help you choose the ideal time for outdoor activities and scenic explorations.

Dining Recommendation in Tauranga

Try the fresh seafood platter at The Fishbone, where the vibrant coastal atmosphere enhances the experience. This dish showcases Tauranga’s local catch and offers a zestier flavor profile than the farm-to-table cuisine often found in Nelson.

Nelson - Tauranga operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$114-335

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
3h 13m
Estimated price
$3354-3355

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
3h 11m
Estimated price
$3352-3356

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Tauranga (TRG) via Wellington

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$1146-1147

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Tauranga (TRG) via Auckland

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$1148-1149

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Tauranga (TRG) via Christchurch

Average Duration
4h 58m
Estimated price
$3350-3351

Plane from Nelson (NSN) to Tauranga (TRG) via Wellington, Auckland

Average Duration
4h 36m
Estimated price
$3352-3353
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Nelson to Woodbourne

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$1144-1090

Bus from Blenheim (BHE) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
5h 29m
Estimated price
$109-335

Bus from Rotorua Airport to Tauranga

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1091-1092

Bus from Nelson Millers Acre Carpark to Picton

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$1093-1094

Bus from Wellington - Central to Tauranga

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$1094-1095
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Other from Picton to Wellington

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$110-10910

Nelson to Tauranga: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Nelson and Tauranga 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.

🛫 Flying from Nelson to Tauranga in New Zealand involves taking a connecting flight with one stopover, making the total travel time 2 hours and 50 minutes. Air New Zealand is the main airline that operates flights on this route. 🌅 The journey from Nelson Airport to Tauranga Airport offers travelers a scenic experience, with the flight taking around 3 hours and 5 minutes to reach the destination. Despite the stopover, passengers can enjoy comfortable travel with Air New Zealand. 💸 Prices for flights between Tauranga and Nelson can range from $114 to $335, depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability. It's recommended to plan ahead and compare different fare options for the best deals on this route.
Departure Point
Nelson Airport
Arrival Point
Tauranga Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 50m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be prepared for a stopover when flying with Air New Zealand; evaluate which layover options work best for your schedule, as the quickest total travel time is 2h 50m but can vary based on connection times.
• Upon arrival at Tauranga Airport, expect a compact airport layout that allows for easy navigation; keep an eye out for the clearly marked rental car services and transport options right after you exit the arrivals area.
• Taxi fares from Tauranga Airport to the city center can range from $25 to $35 NZD, so it's wise to have some cash on hand or confirm card acceptance with your driver; you can also check out the local bus services for a budget-friendly option.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Nelson to Tauranga.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Nelson and Tauranga is approximately 293 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes 5 hours and 24 minutes to reach Tauranga from Nelson by flying to Rotorua and then taking a bus. Alternatively, it takes 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach Tauranga from Nelson by plane. These travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic and weather conditions.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Nelson to Tauranga is by taking a bus and car ferry, which can cost between $150 and $230. This option takes approximately 18 hours and 27 minutes. However, for those looking for a quicker option, flying is the most time-efficient choice. It takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to fly from Nelson to Tauranga, with prices ranging from $150 to $310.
The best way to travel from Nelson to Tauranga without a car is by taking a combination of bus and car ferry. The journey takes approximately 18 hours and 27 minutes and costs between $150 and $230. You will need to catch a bus from Nelson to Picton, where you will then take a car ferry to Wellington. From Wellington, you can continue on another bus to Tauranga. This route allows you to enjoy scenic views during the ferry ride and provides a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers without a car.
The flight between Nelson and Tauranga usually takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes, with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available for this route. The prices for a one-way flight between Tauranga and Nelson range from $158 to $304, depending on the airline and booking time. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to get the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Tauranga. You can choose from over 346 hotels available in the area. Prices start at $78 per night, making it possible to find a hotel that fits your budget. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels, Tauranga offers a variety of options to suit every traveler's needs.