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Queenstown, Otago to Timaru, Canterbury from $45: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Queenstown, New Zealand
to
Timaru, New Zealand

How to Get from Queenstown to Timaru: 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.

$45 - Bus, DriveBest price
331 kmDistance
3h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Queenstown to Timaru 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
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$49-78
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$45-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 331 km
Duration: 3h 51m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  51m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
Air New Zealand, InterCity
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  25m
Estimated price
$87-274
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Queenstown to Timaru

Journeying from Queenstown to Timaru offers a shift from Queenstown's adrenaline-fueled adventure backdrop to Timaru's laid-back coastal charm and rich historical tapestry.

Best Neighbourhoods in Timaru

Timaru features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique attractions for visitors.

Central Timaru
• Bustling shops and cafes abound.
• Close to major attractions and parks.
Timaru North
• Scenic coastal views and beaches.
• Quieter atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
South Timaru
• Rich history with charming architecture.
• Family-friendly parks and recreational areas.

Best Times To Visit Timaru's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Timaru's attractions.

Caroline Bay
Early mornings are best for fewer crowds and stunning sunrises.
Timaru Botanic Gardens
Visit on weekdays for a peaceful stroll among vibrant blooms.
South Canterbury Museum
Afternoons offer quieter visits, perfect for exploring exhibits at your pace.

Timaru Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Timaru enjoys a moderate maritime climate, with warm summers and cool winters, making it welcoming throughout the year. Spring and autumn present the best times to visit, as the pleasant temperatures and less crowded attractions enhance your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Timaru

In Timaru, savor the fresh seafood at 'The Fisherman's Plate,' where the daily catch showcases the region's rich marine flavors. This relaxed dining experience, paired with stunning ocean views, offers a delightful contrast to Queenstown's vibrant and adventurous culinary scene.

Queenstown - Timaru operators

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

Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Queenstown Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
4900-491
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Queenstown to Lake Ohau Turn-off

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
492-493

Bus from Christchurch to Timaru

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
494-493

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Queenstown to Timaru.

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The distance between Queenstown and Timaru is 217 km. If you choose to travel by bus and then drive, it typically takes around 6 hours to reach Timaru from Queenstown. However, if you prefer to drive directly, it takes approximately 3 hours and 51 minutes to reach Queenstown from Timaru. Alternatively, if you opt for a bus journey, it may take around 9 hours and 25 minutes to travel from Queenstown to Timaru.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Queenstown to Timaru in New Zealand is by bus, which typically costs between $45 and $65. However, the journey by bus takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest option is to drive, which takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes and costs between $55 and $85 for fuel and tolls.
The prices for a bus ticket between Queenstown and Timaru can range from $46 to $62.
To travel from Queenstown to Timaru without using public transportation, you can opt to rent a car. The driving distance between Queenstown and Timaru is approximately 332 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes to drive between the two cities. Rental car prices can vary, with options ranging from $55 to $85 for the journey.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Queenstown to Timaru is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes and the cost is usually between $45 and $65.
There is no direct link between Queenstown and Timaru by bus. However, you can take a bus from Queenstown to Timaru with a transfer in Dunedin. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. The bus services are operated by InterCity and Atomic Travel.
The flight from Queenstown to Timaru is not a direct flight. The quickest flight option is to fly from Queenstown Airport to Christchurch Airport, which takes approximately 55 minutes. However, there are no direct flights from Christchurch to Timaru, so travelers would need to arrange for transportation from Christchurch to Timaru via road or bus. As for the cost, prices for flights from Queenstown to Christchurch can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but a rough estimate is around $100 to $200 per person for a one-way ticket.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Timaru. With over 42 hotels to choose from, visitors can find something to fit their budget and preferences. Prices start at $43 per night, ensuring there are options available for different types of travelers.