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Queenstown, Otago to Rotorua, Bay of Plenty from $2561: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Queenstown, New Zealand
to
Rotorua, New Zealand

How to Get from Queenstown to Rotorua: 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.

$2561 by busBest price
998 kmDistance
5h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Queenstown to Rotorua 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
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$256-496
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
8h  4m
Estimated price
$96-305
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 998 km
Duration: 5h 31m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$107-408
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  16m
Estimated price
$141-498
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$173-2560
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
29h  2m
Estimated price
$2561-2562
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
18h  37m
Estimated price
$2563-2564
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Queenstown to Rotorua

The journey from Queenstown, known for its stunning alpine scenery and adventure sports, to Rotorua, famous for geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture, offers a captivating contrast in experiences that showcases New Zealand’s diverse landscape.

Best Neighborhoods in Rotorua

Rotorua boasts vibrant neighborhoods that cater to diverse interests and experiences.

Fenton Street
• Central location near major attractions
• Home to several affordable motels
Sulphur Bay
• Close to geothermal parks and lakes
• Stunning scenic views and boardwalks
Government Gardens
• Historical buildings and beautiful gardens
• Ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics

Best Times To Visit Rotorua's Attractions

Planning your visit to Rotorua's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Te Puia
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and breathtaking geothermal displays.
Wai-O-Tapu
Go during weekdays to enjoy the colorful springs without the hustle.
Redwoods Forest
Explore in late afternoon for stunning light and quieter trails.

Rotorua Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rotorua experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities year-round. Late spring and early autumn are particularly enjoyable, offering comfortable temperatures that enhance your exploration of the city's natural wonders.

Dining Recommendation in Rotorua

Try the traditional hāngī at the historic Tamaki Maori Village, where food is slow-cooked in an underground oven, offering a rich blend of flavors and a glimpse into Māori culture. This communal dining experience significantly contrasts with Queenstown's focus on contemporary cuisine and adventure-themed eateries, allowing you to savor authentic local ingredients in a vibrant, cultural setting.

Queenstown - Rotorua operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$2561-4960

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$4968-4969

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Rotorua (ROT)

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$4961-4962

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Taupo (TUO)

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$4963-4964

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Hamilton (HLZ)

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$4966-4967

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$4968-4969
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$960-961

Plane from Queenstown (ZQN) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$960-961
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Queenstown to Christchurch

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$963-960

Bus from Christchurch to Picton

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$964-965

Bus from Wellington - Central to Rotorua

Average Duration
8h 55m
Estimated price
$963-960

Bus from Manukau City to Tirau

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$962-963
Shuttle
Contact phone
+64 7 866 7014
Website
coromandeladventures.co.nz

Shuttle from Tirau to Rotorua

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$966-967
Taxi
Contact phone
+64 7 578 7878
Website
taurangataxi.co.nz

Taxi from Tauranga to Rotorua

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2561-9660
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Picton to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$968-969
all-pages.transport_car ferry
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

all-pages.transport_car ferry from Picton to Wellington - Central

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$4963-3052

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Queenstown to Rotorua.

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The distance between Queenstown and Rotorua is approximately 620 miles. The travel time between these two destinations can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The quickest option is to fly from Queenstown to Rotorua, which takes about 5 hours and 55 minutes. Alternatively, travelers can fly to Tauranga and then take a taxi to Rotorua, which takes around 5 hours and 31 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Queenstown to Rotorua is by taking a bus and ferry. This option may take longer, approximately 29 hours and 3 minutes, but it is significantly cheaper, with prices ranging from $120 to $210. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way is to fly and then take a taxi, which typically takes 5 hours and 31 minutes and costs between $240 and $500. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
If you are looking to travel from Queenstown to Rotorua without a car, the best option is to take a bus and ferry combination. The journey takes approximately 29 hours and 3 minutes and the cost ranges from $120 to $210. Taking this route allows you to enjoy the scenic views during the ferry crossing and also provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation between the two destinations.
The flight duration between Queenstown and Rotorua with one stopover typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between Queenstown Airport and Tauranga Airport, so passengers usually have to make a stopover at another airport. The cost of a flight between Rotorua and Queenstown varies between $117 and $418, depending on factors such as the airline, travel dates, and booking class.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Rotorua. With a selection of 313+ hotels, visitors have plenty of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for accommodations in Rotorua start at $82 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, you will likely find suitable lodging options in Rotorua to enhance your travel experience.