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Wanaka, Otago to Te Anau, Southland from $17: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wanaka, New Zealand
to
Te Anau, New Zealand

How to Get from Wanaka to Te Anau: 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.

$17 by busBest price
138 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wanaka to Te Anau 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
4h  30m
Estimated price
$17-43
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$17-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 138 km
Duration: 2h 52m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$35-60
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Wanaka to Te Anau

This journey takes you from the stunning alpine scenery of Wanaka to the serene, lakefront beauty of Te Anau, offering a captivating contrast between adventure and tranquility.

Best Neighbourhoods in Te Anau

Te Anau offers charming neighborhoods that enhance your travel experience.

Lakefront
• Scenic views of Lake Te Anau
• Close to cafes and walking trails
Town Centre
• Vibrant dining and shopping options
• Easy access to local services
Fiordland National Park Area
• Gateway to breathtaking nature experiences
• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers

Best Times To Visit Te Anau's Attractions

Timing your visits to Te Anau's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Milford Sound
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning lighting.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Weekdays are ideal for smaller groups and a more intimate experience.
Kepler Track
Spring and autumn offer mild weather, fewer hikers, and breathtaking scenery.

Te Anau Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Te Anau experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making it essential to plan your visit according to the weather. The best times to explore are in the warmer months of December to March, but be prepared for sudden weather changes that can enhance the beauty of the landscape.

Dining Recommendation in Te Anau

For a delightful culinary experience in Te Anau, try the fresh Ferg Burgers at Ferg's Fish & Chips, where the emphasis on locally sourced seafood offers a different flavor profile compared to the meat-heavy fare in Wanaka. The casual, friendly atmosphere here complements the exceptional taste of the region's fresh ingredients, providing a refreshing twist to your dining adventures.

Wanaka - Te Anau operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 833 6053
Website
https://www.ritchies.co.nz

Bus from Wanaka lakefront to Frankton Bus Hub

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
10-24

Bus from Frankton Bus Interchange to Te Anau

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
170-173
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5790
Website
https://www.greatsights.co.nz

Bus from Wanaka to Frankton Bus Interchange

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
172-8

Bus from Frankton Bus Interchange to Te Anau

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
170-173

Wanaka to Te Anau: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Wanaka and Te Anau 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 journey from Wanaka to Te Anau spanning a driving distance of 142 miles. The scenic drive takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes, offering breathtaking landscapes along the way. 🌲 Travelers can anticipate a range of prices, typically falling between $35 to $60 for the car journey between Wanaka and Te Anau. This flexible pricing allows for budget-friendly options to explore the natural beauty between these two charming destinations.
Average price
$35 - $60
🚌 Although there isn't a direct bus from Wānaka to Te Anau, you can take a service departing from Wanaka lakefront. The journey, with transfers, typically lasts around 4 hours and 30 minutes. 💸 Prices for the bus ride from Wanaka to Te Anau range from $17 to $43, offering an affordable and convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful spots of South Island.
Departure Point
Wanaka lakefront station
Arrival Point
Te Anau station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Wanaka and Te Anau in New Zealand is approximately 86 miles by air, with a road distance of 142 miles. By car, it takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes to travel from Wanaka to Te Anau. Alternatively, taking a bus between the two destinations usually takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Wanaka to Te Anau in New Zealand is by bus, which costs about $16-$45 and takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way is to drive, which takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes and costs about $35-$60. These options provide flexibility in terms of budget and travel time, allowing travelers to choose based on their priorities.
The prices for a bus journey between Te Anau and Wanaka in New Zealand can range from $17 to $41. These prices may vary depending on different factors such as the time of year, availability, and bus operators. It is advisable to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information. Additionally, it is important to note that prices may also differ for different types of tickets or classes of service offered by the bus operators.
To get from Wanaka to Te Anau without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two towns is 142 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 52 minutes to drive. The driving time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route chosen. The estimated cost for this journey by car ranges from $35 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.
To travel from Wanaka to Te Anau without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. The bus fare ranges from $16 to $45. This is a convenient and affordable option for travelers who are looking to explore Te Anau without their own vehicle.
No, there is no direct link between Wanaka and Te Anau. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey typically takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes including transfers. The bus services are operated by Ritchies Transport, with departures from Wanaka lakefront and arrival at Te Anau via Frankton Bus Interchange.
There are over 104 hotels available near Te Anau offering a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $46 per night, giving travelers plenty of options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, there are various options available to cater to your needs. It is advisable to check availability and book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.