Queenstown to Oamaru

from $40: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Queenstown to Oamaru 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.

Bus

7h 39m

Cheapest

$40-70

Drive

3h 25m

Fastest

$45-75

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Traveling From Queenstown to Oamaru

Embarking on the journey from Queenstown to Oamaru showcases the exhilarating adventure and adrenaline of a famous resort town followed by the serene charm and historic streets of a coastal gem.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oamaru

Oamaru features vibrant neighborhoods that highlight its rich history and culture.

Oamaru Victorian Precinct

• Home to stunning 19th-century architecture.

• Great shops and galleries showcasing local art.

North Oamaru

• Features beautiful coastal views and parks.

• Close to the famous Blue Penguin Colony.

South Oamaru

• Offers a blend of residential and commercial spaces.

• Hosts various local eateries and markets.

Best Times To Visit Oamaru's Attractions

Timing your visit to Oamaru's attractions can elevate your experience.

Oamaru Penguin Colony

Visit at dusk for the best viewing of penguins returning from the sea, avoiding busy midday crowds.

Oamaru Victorian Precinct

Weekdays offer a quieter experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the historic architecture.

Steampunk HQ

Mornings are ideal to explore this quirky museum, as it tends to get busier in the afternoons.

Oamaru Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oamaru enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. For the best experience, visit during the sunny spring and summer months, when outdoor attractions are at their finest and the chance of rain is lower.

Dining Recommendation in Oamaru

Try the fresh blue cod at The Last Post, where the focus is on locally sourced ingredients and a laid-back coastal vibe, distinctly different from Queenstown's vibrant, high-energy dining scene. This charming eatery embodies the essence of Oamaru, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a taste of the region's rich maritime flavors.

How to Get from Queenstown to Oamaru: 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.

by busBest price

289 kmDistance

3h 25m Fastest

Queenstown - Oamaru operators

Explore transport companies operating between Queenstown and Oamaru, with prices starting at $40. 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 Queenstown to Dunedin

Average Duration

4h 59m

Estimated price

NZ$25-40

Bus from Dunedin to Oamaru

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

NZ$16-30

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Queenstown to Oamaru.

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The distance between Queenstown and Oamaru is 181.9 km, with a road distance of 289.0 km. By car, the typical travel time is around 3 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Queenstown to Oamaru would generally take around 7 hours and 39 minutes.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Queenstown to Oamaru is by taking a bus, which typically costs between $40 and $70. Although it is a longer journey, taking approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes, it can be a more budget-friendly option. However, if time efficiency is a priority, it is recommended to drive, as it takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of driving is slightly higher, usually ranging from $45 to $75, but it allows for a faster and more convenient travel experience.

The prices for a bus ride between Queenstown and Oamaru can range from $40 to $66.

To travel from Queenstown to Oamaru without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of approximately 289.7 km. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes by car. The prices for car rentals vary but can generally range from $45 to $75.

To travel from Queenstown to Oamaru without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes and can cost between $40 and $70.

Yes, there is no direct link between Queenstown and Oamaru by bus. However, there are bus services operated by InterCity that depart from Queenstown and arrive at Oamaru via Dunedin. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. It is also possible to travel between Queenstown and Oamaru by car, with a road distance of 289.0 km, which usually takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Oamaru. With over 57 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Oamaru start at $69, making it possible to find affordable accommodation for a comfortable stay.