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New Plymouth, Taranaki to Queenstown, Otago from $135: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
New Plymouth, New Zealand
to
Queenstown, New Zealand

How to Get from New Plymouth to Queenstown: 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.

$135 - Bus, ferryBest price
805 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New Plymouth to Queenstown 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
4h  8m
Estimated price
$136-348
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
27h  53m
Estimated price
$135-225
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 805 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
32h  4m
Estimated price
$303-443
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
17h  40m
Estimated price
$310-437
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
31h  24m
Estimated price
$348-486

Traveling From New Plymouth to Queenstown

Your journey from New Plymouth’s coastal charm to Queenstown’s adrenaline-pumping adventures offers a striking contrast in landscapes and experiences that will captivate your senses.

Best Neighbourhoods in Queenstown

Queenstown boasts vibrant neighborhoods each offering distinct attractions and atmospheres.

Fernhill
• Stunning lake and mountain views.
• Peaceful, residential vibe close to town.
Central Queenstown
• Bustling shops and restaurants nearby.
• Easy access to outdoor activities.
Arrowtown
• Historic gold mining town experience.
• Scenic walking trails along the river.

Best Times To Visit Queenstown's Attractions

Timing your visits can improve your experience at Queenstown's top attractions.

Skyline Queenstown
Visit early in the morning for shorter lines and breathtaking sunrise views.
Milford Sound
Choose a weekday off-peak season to enjoy quieter cruise tours and stunning scenery.
Queenstown Gardens
Late afternoon showcases golden light for photos and fewer crowds.

Queenstown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Queenstown features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences; late spring and summer present warm days ideal for outdoor activities, while winter invites snow sports enthusiasts. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your itinerary and pack appropriately for an enjoyable visit.

Dining Recommendation in Queenstown

In Queenstown, savor the renowned Fergburger, a burger that combines bold flavors and local ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere, offering a striking contrast to the more coastal-inspired cuisine of New Plymouth. The bustling vibe and outdoor seating create a dining experience that invites you to immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings while enjoying a truly local flavor.

New Plymouth - Queenstown operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from New Plymouth (NPL) to Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$1360-1362

Plane from New Plymouth (NPL) to Queenstown via Christchurch

Average Duration
4h 26m
Estimated price
$1366-1367

Plane from New Plymouth (NPL) to Queenstown via Wellington

Average Duration
4h 17m
Estimated price
$1366-1367

Plane from New Plymouth (NPL) to Queenstown via Auckland

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$1366-1367

Plane from New Plymouth (NPL) to Queenstown via Wellington and Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 46m
Estimated price
$1366-1367
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from New Plymouth Boys High STUDENTS ONLY to Palmerston North

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$3480-3481

Bus from Palmerston North to Johnsonville

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$3482-1364

Bus from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$1364-3484

Bus from Palmerston North to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
2h 14m
Estimated price
$3482-1364

Bus from Fitzroy to Otorohanga

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$3485-1364

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$3483-1365

Bus from Christchurch to Tekapo

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$3486-1364

Bus from Tekapo to Queenstown

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$3480-3481
Shuttle
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
cheekykiwitravel.com

Shuttle from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
$34820-1361
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Otorohanga to Wellington

Average Duration
7h 35m
Estimated price
$1368-1369
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$1364-0
all-pages.transport_car ferry
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

all-pages.transport_car ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$1352-1353

New Plymouth to Queenstown: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between New Plymouth and Queenstown 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 New Plymouth Airport to Queenstown Airport in New Zealand requires a stopover, making the journey about 3 hours and 25 minutes in total. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the cost of a flight between Queenstown and New Plymouth ranges from $136 to $348, providing flexibility for travelers with different budgets.
Departure Point
New Plymouth Airport
Arrival Point
Queenstown Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 25m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New Plymouth to Queenstown.

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The distance between New Plymouth and Queenstown is approximately 500 miles. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Taking a bus and then a ferry can take around 27 hours and 53 minutes. Alternatively, traveling by plane can take approximately 4 hours and 13 minutes. These travel times may be subject to variations due to factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and other transit variables.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from New Plymouth to Queenstown is by taking a bus and ferry, which costs between $120-$220 and takes approximately 27 hours and 53 minutes. This option may be more time-consuming, but it offers the advantage of being more affordable. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach Queenstown from New Plymouth is by flying. Although this option is more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $160-$310, it only takes about 4 hours and 13 minutes, offering a significant time-saving advantage.
The best way to travel from New Plymouth to Queenstown without a car is by taking a bus and ferry. This journey typically takes 27 hours and 53 minutes and can cost between $120 and $220. If you prefer a faster option, you can also fly from New Plymouth to Queenstown, which takes about 4 hours and 13 minutes. However, keep in mind that flying may be more expensive compared to taking the bus and ferry combination.
The flight duration between New Plymouth and Queenstown is typically around 3 hours and 25 minutes. However, there are no direct flights between the two airports, so there is usually a stopover involved. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $160 to $306 depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.
There are over 958 hotels available near Queenstown. Prices for accommodations start at $56. Some popular hotel options in Queenstown include The Rees Hotel, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, and Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices available to suit your needs near Queenstown.