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Queenstown, Otago to Kaikoura, Canterbury from $55: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Queenstown, New Zealand
to
Kaikoura, New Zealand

How to Get from Queenstown to Kaikoura: 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.

$55 by busBest price
501 kmDistance
6h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Queenstown to Kaikoura 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
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h 
Estimated price
$55-90
Recommended
route map
Distance: 501 km
Duration: 6h 30m

See more options

Company
Air New Zealand
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$88-274
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$110-170
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  21m
Estimated price
$126-353
Company
Air New Zealand
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  23m
Estimated price
$131-550
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  30m
Estimated price
$551-552
Company
Air New Zealand
Plane
Train
Average Duration
8h  9m
Estimated price
$553-554
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
17h  25m
Estimated price
$555-556
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Traveling From Queenstown to Kaikoura

Embarking on a journey from Queenstown's thrilling landscapes to Kaikoura's serene coastal charm offers a striking contrast between adventure and relaxation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kaikoura

Kaikoura boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and experiences.

Kaikoura Town
• Vibrant dining options with fresh seafood.
• Close to whale-watching tours and activities.
South Bay
• Picturesque views of the harbor and mountains.
• Ideal for kayaking and marine adventures.
Kahutara
• Quieter atmosphere with stunning natural scenery.
• Great access to walking and biking trails.

Best Times To Visit Kaikoura's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Kaikoura.

Whale Watching Tours
Consider early morning trips for fewer crowds and optimal wildlife sightings.
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Visit during weekdays to enjoy quieter trails and breathtaking views.
Dolphin Swimming Experiences
Choose off-peak seasons for better availability and a more personalized experience.

Kaikoura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kaikoura experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it enjoyable for travelers year-round. Visiting during the spring and summer months offers the best chance for outdoor activities, while the cooler months provide a unique, tranquil coastal experience.

Dining Recommendation in Kaikoura

Savor the fresh crayfish at Kaikoura's famous seafood shack, which delivers a completely different culinary experience compared to Queenstown's hearty fare. The casual, seaside atmosphere and focus on locally sourced seafood highlight the flavors of the ocean, making dining here a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Queenstown - Kaikoura operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Queenstown to Christchurch

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
55-90

Bus from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
7-8

Bus from Queenstown to Tekapo

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
1260-1260

Bus from Tekapo to Christchurch

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
1261-907
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
http://greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
904-905

Train from Blenheim to Kaikoura

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
558-905
Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Christchurch (CHC)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
558-559

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Nelson (NSN)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
90-557

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Blenheim (BHE)

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
900-901
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
cheekykiwitravel.com

Other from Queenstown to Christchurch

Average Duration
13h 30m
Estimated price
170-9090
Taxi
Contact phone
+64 800 46 47336
Website
greencabs.co.nz

Taxi from Queenstown to Wanaka

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
1263-12610

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

Traveling between Queenstown and Kaikoura 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Queenstown to Kaikoura, covering a distance of 411 miles. The journey promises stunning landscapes and breathtaking views along the way. ⛰️ Travelers can expect to spend around 7 hours and 50 minutes driving from Queenstown to Kaikoura. The route offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and the thrill of exploring the diverse terrain of New Zealand's South Island. 💸 Prices for a car journey from Queenstown to Kaikoura typically range from $110 to $170. This experience promises not only a cost-effective way to travel but also a memorable adventure through the stunning countryside of New Zealand.
Average price
$110 - $170
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Queenstown to Kaikoura by taking a direct flight to Christchurch Airport, which only takes around 55 minutes with Air New Zealand.
Departure Point
Queenstown Airport
Arrival Point
Christchurch Airport
🚌 The journey from Queenstown to Kaikoura by bus is a scenic adventure with a transfer in Christchurch. It takes approximately 12 hours to complete the trip. 💸 Prices for the bus ride between Kaikoura and Queenstown range from $55 to $90, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for exploring the beauty of New Zealand's South Island.
Departure Point
Queenstown station
Arrival Point
Kaikoura station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Queenstown to Kaikoura.

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The distance between Queenstown and Kaikoura is 311 miles or 410.7 miles by road. The travel times vary by mode of transportation. It takes around 12 hours and 6 minutes to travel from Queenstown to Kaikoura by first taking a bus and then a train. If you choose to drive by car, it takes approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes to reach Queenstown from Kaikoura. Alternatively, taking a bus directly from Queenstown to Kaikoura would take around 12 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Queenstown to Kaikoura is by bus, with tickets ranging from $50 to $90. However, this option does take the longest, with a journey time of approximately 12 hours. If time is of the essence, the fastest option is to fly and then take a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 37 minutes, with prices ranging from $85 to $280. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on personal preferences and priorities.
When traveling from Queenstown to Kaikoura, the prices for a bus ticket range from $54 to $88. The exact price may depend on factors such as the bus provider, the type of ticket, and the time of travel. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online platforms to find the best fare for your journey.
To travel from Queenstown to Kaikoura without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is approximately 411 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 50 minutes to complete the journey by car. It's recommended to check for current fuel prices and any tolls that might apply along the way. The estimated cost of driving from Queenstown to Kaikoura ranges between $110 and $170, depending on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Queenstown to Kaikoura without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey from Queenstown to Kaikoura takes approximately 12 hours. The cost of the bus ticket can range from $50 to $90. This mode of transportation allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
No, there is no direct link between Queenstown and Kaikoura. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer in Christchurch. The journey from Queenstown to Kaikoura takes approximately 12 hours, including the transfers. The services are operated by InterCity and depart from Queenstown station, arriving at Kaikoura station.
The flight duration from Queenstown to Christchurch, which is the nearest airport to Kaikoura, typically takes around 55 minutes on a direct flight. However, please note that Kaikoura does not have its own airport, so travelers would need to arrange ground transportation from Christchurch to Kaikoura. As far as cost is concerned, flight prices can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel dates, but typically range from $150 to $250 per person for a one-way ticket.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Kaikoura with over 127 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $55, providing a range of choices to fit different budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly options, there are various options to suit your preferences. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.