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Wellington, Wellington to Hamilton, Waikato from $35: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Hamilton, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington to Hamilton: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$35 by busBest price
394 kmDistance
2h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington to Hamilton 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
Air New Zealand
Plane
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
$98-285
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$35-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 394 km
Duration: 2h 50m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$50-205
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$101-243
Company
KiwiRail - Northern Explorer
Train
Average Duration
8h  30m
Estimated price
$110-980
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$981-982
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Traveling From Wellington to Hamilton

The journey from Wellington to Hamilton offers contrasting landscapes and experiences, with Wellington's vibrant urban scene transitioning into Hamilton's serene gardens and riverside charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Hamilton

Hamilton boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions for visitors.

Victoria Street
• Lively dining and nightlife scene.
• Central location for easy exploration.
Claudelands
• Home to beautiful gardens and parks.
• Hosts major events at Claudelands Arena.
Garden Place
• Features stunning public art installations.
• A hub for cultural experiences and events.

Best Times To Visit Hamilton's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your Hamilton experience with lesser crowds and better access to attractions.

Hamilton Gardens
Visit early morning on weekdays for a peaceful stroll through stunning landscapes.
Waikato Museum
Go on Thursday evenings when entry is free and the atmosphere is lively.
Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary
Explore in the early afternoon to catch the most wildlife activity.

Hamilton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Hamilton enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it generally pleasant for year-round visits. While summer is ideal for outdoor activities, the cooler months offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for exploring indoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Hamilton

Try the slow-cooked lamb shank at The Ale House, where the focus is on hearty, rustic flavors rooted in local ingredients. This contrasts with Wellington's emphasis on modern fine dining, providing a cozy, laid-back atmosphere that celebrates traditional Kiwi cuisine.

Wellington - Hamilton operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Hamilton (HLZ)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
50-985

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
986-987

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Auckland (AKL)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
988-989
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Wellington to Hamilton

Average Duration
8h 30m
Estimated price
110-980
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Wellington - Central to Hamilton - Central

Average Duration
9h 15m
Estimated price
35-60

Bus from Auckland International Airport to Hamilton - Central

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
2852-2853

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

Traveling between Wellington and Hamilton 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 scenic road trip from Wellington to Hamilton, covering a distance of 324 miles through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand. The journey promises around 6 hours and 5 minutes of awe-inspiring views and smooth drives. 💸 The cost of this road adventure ranges between $85 to $130, offering you the flexibility to choose the most convenient and budget-friendly option for your travel from Wellington to Hamilton by car.
Average price
$85 - $130
🌄 As you depart from Wellington station, get ready for an 8.5-hour ride through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, the time will pass by quickly as you make your way towards Hamilton station. 💰 Ticket prices for this train route typically range from $110 to $150, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the North Island. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey from Wellington to Hamilton by train.
Departure Point
Wellington station
Arrival Point
Hamilton station
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Wellington Airport to Hamilton Airport in just 1 hour and 15 minutes with a direct flight offered by Air New Zealand. ✈️ Enjoy the convenience of a direct flight and arrive in Hamilton in under 3 hours from Wellington, making it a quick and efficient travel option. 💸 Prices for flights between Hamilton and Wellington range from $98 to $285, providing flexibility for travelers with varying budgets.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
Hamilton Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Keep an eye on Air New Zealand's flight schedule, as they are the primary operator for direct flights from Wellington to Hamilton, and flights can sometimes be affected by weather conditions that are common in Wellington.
• Upon arrival at Hamilton Airport (HLZ), navigate towards the baggage claim area efficiently—it's compact, and your luggage will generally arrive promptly due to the smaller size of the airport compared to Wellington’s.
• Expect to pay approximately NZD 25-35 for a taxi from Hamilton Airport to the city center; alternatively, check out the local bus services for a cost-effective option at around NZD 5 if you're not in a hurry.
🕒 The bus service operates once daily, taking approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes to reach Hamilton from Wellington, making it a comfortable option for a day trip or longer journey. 💵 Prices for the bus between Hamilton and Wellington range from $35 to $60, providing an affordable transportation option for travelers exploring these two picturesque New Zealand cities.
Departure Point
Wellington - Central station
Arrival Point
Hamilton - Central station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Hamilton.

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The distance between Wellington and Hamilton is approximately 245 miles by road. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes to travel from Wellington to Hamilton. Alternatively, taking a flight from Wellington to Tauranga and then driving to Hamilton takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes. Flying directly from Wellington to Hamilton is the quickest option, taking approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. To travel in the opposite direction, by car it takes around 6 hours and 5 minutes from Hamilton to Wellington, while by bus, it takes approximately 9 hours and15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Wellington to Hamilton is by bus, which typically costs $35-$60. However, this method takes the longest, with a travel time of 9 hours and 15 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes 2 hours and 50 minutes and typically costs $95-$290. Although more expensive than taking the bus, it significantly reduces travel time and is a more convenient option for those with tight schedules.
The prices for a train journey between Wellington and Hamilton can range from $45 to $130. Meanwhile, the prices for a bus trip between Hamilton and Wellington vary from $35 to $60. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time and date of travel, as well as any promotional offers or discounts available. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers or booking platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Wellington to Hamilton without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 324 miles. The journey typically takes approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes by car. The cost for this trip can vary, with prices ranging from $85 to $130 depending on the specific vehicle and any additional expenses such as fuel or tolls.
To travel from Wellington to Hamilton without a car, the best option is to take the train. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, and ticket prices range from $45 to $130. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $95 to $290. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $35 and $60.
Yes, there is a direct link between Wellington and Hamilton. There is a train service operated by KiwiRail - Northern Explorer that departs from Wellington station and arrives at Hamilton station. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes. Additionally, there is a bus service operated by InterCity that departs from Wellington - Central station and arrives at Hamilton - Central station. The bus journey takes approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between Wellington and Hamilton typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The prices for this flight route can range from $98 to $285. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance for the best deals.
There are many options for accommodation near Hamilton. With over 239 hotels available, you can find a range of options to suit your budget. Prices start at $52 per night, offering affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly motels, there are plenty of options to choose from near Hamilton.

Trips from Wellington