1map logoGo to main page

Palmerston North, Manawatu-Whanganui to Queenstown, Otago from $112: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palmerston North, New Zealand
to
Queenstown, New Zealand

How to Get from Palmerston North 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.

$112 - Bus, ferryBest price
774 kmDistance
4h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palmerston North 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  23m
Estimated price
$113-520
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
22h  38m
Estimated price
$112-184
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 774 km
Duration: 4h 23m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
23h  30m
Estimated price
$259-523
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
15h  2m
Estimated price
$274-1130
Company
various
Train
Drive
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
26h 
Estimated price
$326-471
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Palmerston North to Queenstown

The journey from Palmerston North to Queenstown offers a striking contrast, where the tranquil plains give way to breathtaking mountain landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.

Best Neighbourhoods in Queenstown

Queenstown boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Central Queenstown
• Close to dining and shopping options
• Stunning views of Lake Wakatipu
Frankton
• Gateway to nearby attractions
• Family-friendly with parks and amenities
Arrowtown
• Charming historic gold mining village
• Scenic walking trails and nature spots

Best Times To Visit Queenstown's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your Queenstown experience.

Skyline Queenstown
Visit early in the morning for stunning sunrise views and fewer visitors.
Milford Sound
Travel during weekdays in shoulder seasons to avoid peak tourist crowds.
Queenstown Gardens
Late afternoon visits offer peaceful strolls and beautiful sunset scenery.

Queenstown Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Queenstown experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it an ideal destination year-round. Summer offers lovely warm days for outdoor activities, while winter presents opportunities for skiing and snowboarding; understanding these seasonal changes can greatly enhance your trip.

Dining Recommendation

Try the famous Fergburger in Queenstown, known for its massive, gourmet burgers loaded with local ingredients that deliver an explosion of flavor. This vibrant eatery provides a lively, distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from the more laid-back dining options in Palmerston North, offering a taste of Queenstown’s adventurous spirit.

Palmerston North - Queenstown operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palmerston North 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 Palmerston (PMR) to Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
4h 23m
Estimated price
113-520

Plane from Palmerston (PMR) to Queenstown (ZQN) via Christchurch

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
1137-1138

Plane from Palmerston (PMR) to Queenstown (ZQN) via Auckland

Average Duration
4h 19m
Estimated price
11360-1139

Plane from Palmerston (PMR) to Queenstown (ZQN) via Auckland, Christchurch

Average Duration
6h 6m
Estimated price
5200-11370
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Palmerston North to Johnsonville

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
5201-5207

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
5208-5203

Bus from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
5207-5209
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
1123-1124
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
1131-11360
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Palmerston North to Wellington

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
5201-5202
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Palmerston North to Wellington

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
5203-5204
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Picton to Rangiora

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
1137-5205
Shuttle
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
cheekykiwitravel.com

Shuttle from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
1120-1121
Drive

Drive from Palmerston North to Queenstown

Average Duration
15h 2m
Estimated price
274-1130

Palmerston North to Queenstown: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Palmerston North 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 Palmerston North to Queenstown involves a single stopover, making the quickest total flight time approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Palmerston North and Queenstown can range from $113 to $520, offering a variety of options for different budgets and preferences in air travel.
Departure Point
Palmerston Airport
Arrival Point
Queenstown Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 45m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palmerston North to Queenstown.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Palmerston North and Queenstown is approximately 481 miles. The typical travel time by train to Wellington and then flying is 5 hours and 51 minutes, while the travel time by plane is 4 hours and 28 minutes. These times are subject to change depending on factors such as weather conditions and transportation schedules.
The most cost-effective transportation option to travel from Palmerston North to Queenstown is by bus and ferry, which costs between $100 and $190 and takes approximately 22 hours and 38 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, flying is the best choice. The flight from Palmerston North to Queenstown takes around 4 hours and 28 minutes, and prices range from $110 to $600.
To travel from Palmerston North to Queenstown without a car, you can take a train to Wellington, then a car ferry to Picton, and finally a bus to Queenstown. This journey usually takes around 22 hours and 35 minutes and costs between $170-$280. Alternatively, you can also fly directly from Palmerston North to Queenstown, which takes approximately 4 hours and 28 minutes. However, this option may be more expensive compared to taking the train and ferry combination.
The flight duration between Palmerston North and Queenstown typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two airports. The prices of flights between Queenstown and Palmerston North can vary, ranging from $118 to $570. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals.
There are many options for accommodation near Queenstown. With over 958 hotels available, travelers can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for these hotels start at as low as $56 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, you will find plenty of options to stay near Queenstown.

Trips to Queenstown