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Palmerston North, Manawatu-Whanganui to Taupo, Waikato from $23: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palmerston North, New Zealand
to
Taupo, New Zealand

How to Get from Palmerston North to Taupo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$23 by busBest price
247 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palmerston North to Taupo 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
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$23-40
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$23-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 247 km
Duration: 2h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$133-335

Traveling From Palmerston North to Taupo

The journey from Palmerston North to Taupo showcases a shift from urban vibes to stunning lake landscapes and geothermal wonders.

Best Neighbourhoods in Taupo

Taupo offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Lake Taupo
• Scenic views of the largest lake in New Zealand
• Great for water sports and outdoor activities
Taupo Town Centre
• Vibrant atmosphere with numerous shops and cafes
• Close to restaurants and local attractions
Acacia Bay
• Peaceful ambiance ideal for relaxation
• Access to walking trails and stunning sunsets

Best Times To Visit Taupo's Attractions

Timing your visits to Taupo’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Huka Falls
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Taupo Lakefront
Early weekdays are ideal for a peaceful stroll along the lakeshore.
Craters of the Moon
Late spring or early autumn offers milder weather and quieter trails.

Taupo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Taupo experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it a delightful destination year-round. Understanding the weather can help you plan your activities, with the best times for outdoor adventures typically in the warmer months of December through March.

Dining Recommendation in Taupo

Head to the famed Tutu's for a taste of local flavors, where fresh seafood and game meats highlight the unique culinary scene, contrasting with Palmerston North’s hearty comfort food. The lakeside ambiance paired with innovative dishes crafted from regional produce creates a dining experience that feels distinctly reflective of Taupo’s natural beauty.

Palmerston North - Taupo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palmerston North and Taupo, 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 Palmerston North to Taupo

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
NZ$23-40
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
https://greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Palmerston North to Wellington

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$230-231
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
https://greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Palmerston North to Wellington

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$231-232
Plane
Website
https://soundsair.com

Plane from Wellington to Taupo

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
NZ$140-220
Website
https://airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington to Taupo via Auckland

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
NZ$90-310

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Palmerston North and Taupo is approximately 191.5 km by road, which is a 4-hour drive. However, if you prefer public transportation, it takes 5 hours to reach Taupo from Palmerston North by taking a train first and then flying. Alternatively, if you are traveling from Taupo to Palmerston North, it takes 2 hours and 52 minutes by car or 4 hours and 20 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Palmerston North to Taupo is by bus, which takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $22 and $35. This is a great option for budget travelers who are not in a hurry. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach Taupo is by driving, which takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes and costs between $40 and $65.
The prices for a bus ticket between Taupo and Palmerston North range from $22 to $35.
To travel from Palmerston North to Taupo without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 246.2 km. The drive usually takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. The cost of driving from Palmerston North to Taupo by car can range from $40 to $65, considering fuel expenses.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Palmerston North to Taupo is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes and the fares range from $22 to $35.
Yes, there is a direct link between Palmerston North and Taupo in New Zealand. There is a daily bus service operated by InterCity that departs from Palmerston North and arrives in Taupo, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight from Palmerston North to Taupo typically involves a layover at Wellington Airport. The quick direct flight from Wellington to Taupo takes approximately 1 hour. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but generally, prices range from around $100 to $250 NZD for a one-way ticket.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Taupō. With over 318 hotels available, you'll have a wide range to choose from. Prices generally start at around $80 per night, but can vary depending on the location and amenities offered.

Trips from Palmerston North