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Wellington, Wellington to Cairns, Queensland from $160: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Wellington to Cairns: 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.

$160 - PlaneBest price
3896 kmDistance
11h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington to Cairns 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
Average Duration
11h  51m
Estimated price
$163-605
Recommended
route map
Distance: 3896 km
Duration: 11h 51m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
19h  49m
Estimated price
$464-914
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
11h  54m
Estimated price
$528-960

Traveling From Wellington to Cairns

Traveling from Wellington to Cairns takes you from New Zealand's vibrant cultural scene and stunning landscapes to Australia's tropical climate and outdoor adventures.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns offers diverse neighborhoods each with a distinct charm for visitors.

Cairns CBD
• Central hub for dining and shopping.
• Close access to the Esplanade and lagoon.
Palm Cove
• Stunning beaches and palm-lined foreshore.
• Luxury spas and boutique accommodations available.
Port Douglas
• Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Charming main street with local boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Planning your visit to Cairns? Here’s when to explore its top attractions for a better experience.

Great Barrier Reef
Early mornings offer fewer crowds and clearer waters for snorkeling.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Weekdays provide a quieter ride with stunning, uninterrupted views.
Cairns Esplanade
Late afternoons are ideal for enjoying sunset views with fewer visitors.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a desirable destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit, as lower humidity and pleasant temperatures enhance your travel experience.

Dining in Cairns: A Culinary Adventure

Savor the vibrant flavors of tropical Queensland with a visit to Ochre Restaurant, where dishes highlight native ingredients like barramundi and kangaroo, showcasing a unique twist that contrasts with Wellington's coffee-centric and hearty fare. The relaxed atmosphere, paired with stunning views of the esplanade, creates a dining experience that embraces the natural beauty of Cairns.

Wellington - Cairns operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
11h 51m
Estimated price
$160-650

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Sydney

Average Duration
8h 15m
Estimated price
$1633-1634

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Brisbane

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$163190-1635

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Melbourne

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
$1636-1637

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Christchurch, Brisbane

Average Duration
11h 55m
Estimated price
$1633-1634
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Melbourne

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$163190-1639

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Auckland

Average Duration
16h
Estimated price
$163150-1634
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Cairns (CNS) via Gold Coast

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$160-6051
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Other from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$6052-6053
Contact phone
+64 4 384 4444
Website
taxis.co.nz

Other from Wellington to Paraparaumu

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$6054-6055

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Cairns.

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The distance between Wellington and Cairns is approximately 3896 km. The typical travel time from Wellington to Cairns by car ferry to Blenheim and then flying is around 18 hours and 39 minutes. Alternatively, if you choose to fly directly, the travel time is about 11 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Wellington to Cairns is to fly. Flying is both affordable and quick, with flights costing between $270 and $750 and taking approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes.
The flight duration between Wellington and Cairns varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest option, with one stopover, takes around 8 hours and 5 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available. As for the cost, prices for a flight between Cairns and Wellington can range from $273 to $705, depending on the airline, time of travel, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Cairns. With over 711 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at $73, giving travelers plenty of affordable choices.

Trips from Wellington