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Wellington, Wellington to Christchurch, Canterbury from $36: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Christchurch, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington 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.

$36 - PlaneBest price
307.3 kmDistance
2h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington 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
Plane
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$36-158
Recommended
route map
Distance: 307.3 km
Duration: 2h 47m

See more options

Company
InterCity
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
10h  5m
Estimated price
$62-92
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
10h  20m
Estimated price
$140-183
Company
KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific
Train
Average Duration
10h  24m
Estimated price
$145-315
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$167-223
Company
various
Drive
Train
Average Duration
10h  26m
Estimated price
$212-408
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Traveling From Wellington to Christchurch

Embark on a journey from Wellington's vibrant arts scene and coastal beauty to Christchurch's serene gardens and rich history, experiencing two distinct yet captivating sides of New Zealand.

Best Neighbourhoods in Christchurch

Christchurch offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Merivale
• Trendy cafes and boutique shopping abound.
• Beautiful tree-lined streets enhance its charm.
Lyttelton
• Quaint harbor town with stunning views.
• Vibrant arts scene and historic charm.
Riverside
• Lively riverside parks for relaxation.
• Buzzy markets and food experiences.

Best Times To Visit Christchurch's Attractions

Planning your visit around crowds can enhance your experience in Christchurch.

Botanic Gardens
Visit early morning or on weekdays for peace and solitude.
Canterbury Museum
Late afternoon on weekdays offers quieter exploration and fewer visitors.
Quake City
Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more personal experience.

Christchurch Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it important to consider weather when planning your trip. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn for mild temperatures, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities and local attractions comfortably.

Dining Recommendation in Christchurch

Try the renowned Canterbury lamb at devoir, a restaurant known for its focus on local produce and rustic charm, offering a farm-to-table experience that contrasts with Wellington's more urban vibe. The emphasis on seasonal ingredients and hearty flavors creates a warm atmosphere that showcases the region's culinary heritage.

Wellington - Christchurch operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
35-210
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
30-210
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Train from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
45-45
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
100-270
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
28-45
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
30-50
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
110-140

Wellington to Christchurch: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Wellington and Christchurch 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.

🌿 The train ride from Wellington to Christchurch, operated by Interislander and KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific, takes approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes, including transfers. Passengers can relax and enjoy the picturesque views along the way. 🎫 The prices for a train ticket between Wellington and Christchurch range from $145 to $315, providing travelers with various options to suit their budget and preferences. This train journey offers a convenient and comfortable way to explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
Departure Point
Wellington - Central station
Arrival Point
Christchurch station
🛫 Flying from Wellington to Christchurch is quick and convenient with a direct flight that takes just 50 minutes. Both Jetstar and Air New Zealand operate flights between Wellington Airport and Christchurch Airport. 🌄 The scenic flight offers stunning views as you make the journey from the capital city to the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. The total travel time by plane from Wellington to Christchurch is approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Christchurch and Wellington can vary, with tickets typically ranging from $36 to $158. Booking in advance can help you secure the best deals for your trip across the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
Christchurch Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider the working hours of Wellington Airport; it often gets busy in the early mornings and late afternoons, especially on weekdays, so aim for mid-morning or early afternoon flights for a smoother experience.
• Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, you’ll find that the domestic terminal is quite compact, allowing for easy navigation; however, be prepared to go through biosecurity screening, which can take extra time, so factor that into your arrival schedule.
• Taxi fares from Christchurch Airport to the city center typically range from NZD 40 to NZD 60, making it a convenient option if you're traveling with multiple passengers or luggage; alternatively, check out the local bus service (Christchurch Airport to the City) for a more economical choice at around NZD 8.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Christchurch.

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The distance between Wellington and Christchurch is 191 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes 10 hours and 24 minutes to reach Christchurch from Wellington by train, 10 hours and 5 minutes by taking a ferry and then a bus, and 2 hours and 45 minutes by plane. These options provide travelers with different choices based on their preferences for speed, comfort, and convenience.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Wellington to Christchurch is by flying. It takes 2 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $35 and $160. Another option is to take the train, which takes 10 hours and 24 minutes but may not be as cost-effective. Taking a ferry and then a bus is also an option, which takes 10 hours and 5 minutes, but may not be as quick or affordable as flying. Ultimately, flying is the most recommended option for a swift and efficient journey.
The prices for traveling from Wellington to Christchurch by train vary between $88 and $138. The exact cost depends on factors such as the class of travel and the time of booking. It's recommended to check with the specific train service for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Wellington to Christchurch without a car, the best option is to take a ferry from Wellington to Picton and then a bus from Picton to Christchurch. This journey takes approximately 10 hours and 5 minutes and costs between $60 and $95. The ferry ride from Wellington to Picton usually takes around 3 hours, and then the bus journey from Picton to Christchurch takes about 7 hours. It is a scenic and convenient way to travel between the two cities without the need for a car.
No, there is no direct train link between Wellington and Christchurch. However, there is an option to take a train from Wellington to Picton and then transfer to another train to Christchurch, which takes approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes with the Interislander and KiwiRail - Coastal Pacific services. This journey involves transfers and can be a scenic way to travel between the two cities.
The flight between Wellington and Christchurch typically takes around 50 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $36 and $158, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals. Overall, a flight is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation between these two cities.
There are many options for accommodation near Christchurch. There are over 597 hotels available in the area, with prices starting at $40. Some popular options include the Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square, Rydges Latimer Christchurch, and the Heritage Christchurch. These hotels offer a range of amenities and comfort to suit different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Wellington

Trips to Christchurch