1map logoGo to main page

Te Anau, Southland to Christchurch, Canterbury from $45: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Te Anau, New Zealand
to
Christchurch, New Zealand

How to Get from Te Anau to Christchurch: 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 by busBest price
643 kmDistance
3h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Te Anau to Christchurch 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
Plane
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$82-257
Recommended
Company
GreatSights, InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
11h  5m
Estimated price
$45-75
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 643 km
Duration: 3h 54m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$100-260
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$101-253
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  24m
Estimated price
$110-160
Company
Cheeky Kiwi Travel
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
16h  45m
Estimated price
$183-249
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$183-351
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Te Anau to Christchurch

The journey from Te Anau's tranquil lakes and stunning fjords to Christchurch's vibrant urban life and historic charm offers a fascinating contrast that enriches your travel experience.

Best Neighbourhoods in Christchurch

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

Central City
• Home to stunning street art and cultural hotspots.
• Ideal for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Sumner
• Beautiful beaches and coastal views await you.
• Great for outdoor activities and local cafes.
Merivale
• Features boutique shops and upscale dining options.
• Known for its leafy streets and parks.

Best Times To Visit Christchurch's Attractions

Timing your visits to Christchurch's attractions can significantly improve your experience.

Botanic Gardens
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Canterbury Museum
Weekday mornings often see less foot traffic, perfect for a relaxed visit.
Christchurch Tram
Ride during weekdays for a quieter journey and a more personal experience.

Christchurch Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it essential to plan your visit depending on your weather preferences. The best times to explore the city are during the mild spring and autumn months, as clear skies and pleasant temperatures enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

When in Christchurch, don’t miss out on the vibrant atmosphere at 'The Bicycle Thief,' where you can enjoy a modern twist on classic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This culinary experience stands in stark contrast to Te Anau's focus on hearty comfort food, offering you a chance to savor bold flavors amidst a lively urban setting.

Te Anau - Christchurch operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5790
Website
https://www.greatsights.co.nz/new-zealand-tours/

Bus from Te Anau to Frankton Bus Interchange

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
NZ$12-18

Bus from Te Anau to Queenstown

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
NZ$13-19
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
https://www.intercity.co.nz/

Bus from Frankton Bus Interchange to Christchurch

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
NZ$35-55
Plane
Website
https://www.airnewzealand.com/

Plane from Queenstown Airport to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
NZ$60-240

Plane from Invercargill to Christchurch Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
NZ$75-260
Website
https://www.soundsair.com/

Plane from Wanaka to Christchurch

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
NZ$140-380
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
https://www.cheekykiwitravel.com/

Other from Queenstown to Christchurch

Average Duration
13h 30m
Estimated price
NZ$170-230

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Te Anau to Christchurch.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Te Anau and Christchurch is 445.8 km by air, with a travel time of 4 hours and 51 minutes including a bus ride to Queenstown. By car, the road distance is 643.6 km and it takes approximately 7 hours and 24 minutes to drive from Christchurch to Te Anau. If you prefer to travel by bus, it takes around 11 hours and 5 minutes to reach Christchurch from Te Anau.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Te Anau to Christchurch is by bus, which takes 11h 5m and costs $40-$75. This method of transportation may take longer, but it is the cheapest option available. However, if you are looking for a quicker journey, you can take a combination of bus and fly, which takes 4h 51m and costs $80-$260.
The prices for a bus ticket between Te Anau and Christchurch range from $42 to $72.
To get from Te Anau to Christchurch without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between Te Anau and Christchurch is approximately 643.7 km, and it takes around 7 hours and 24 minutes to drive. You can expect to pay around $110 to $160 for the fuel and tolls on this journey.
The best way to travel from Te Anau to Christchurch without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 5 minutes and the ticket prices range from $40 to $75.
No, there is no direct link between Te Anau and Christchurch by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers at Frankton Bus Interchange. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 5 minutes. The buses are operated by GreatSights and InterCity.
The flight between Te Anau and Christchurch typically takes around 55 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Christchurch. With over 597 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start as low as $40 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.

Trips to Glenorchy