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Wellington, Wellington to New Plymouth, Taranaki from $40: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
New Plymouth, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington to New Plymouth: 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.

$40 by busBest price
256 kmDistance
2h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington to New Plymouth 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  33m
Estimated price
$93-240
Recommended
Company
InterCity
Bus
Average Duration
6h  49m
Estimated price
$40-71
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 256 km
Duration: 2h 33m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  52m
Estimated price
$47-105
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$60-90

Traveling From Wellington to New Plymouth

The journey from Wellington to New Plymouth offers a striking contrast, with Wellington's vibrant urban energy shifting to New Plymouth's serene coastal charm and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in New Plymouth

New Plymouth boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions for visitors.

Pukekura Park
• Home to stunning gardens and a scenic lake.
• Hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
Coastal Walkway
• Features a picturesque path along the coast.
• Perfect for biking, jogging, or leisurely strolls.
Brooklands
• Known for its beautiful botanical gardens.
• Close to local cafes and charming shops.

Best Times To Visit New Plymouth's Attractions

Planning your visit to New Plymouth's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Pukekura Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy tranquility and fewer visitors.
Mount Taranaki
Head up early in the day for stunning views and cooler hiking conditions.
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Thursday afternoons are quieter, perfect for exploring contemporary art without the rush.

New Plymouth Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

New Plymouth enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Understanding seasonal weather patterns can help you plan outdoor activities and local adventures more effectively.

Dining Recommendation in New Plymouth

Visit Social Kitchen for a taste of New Plymouth's vibrant local scene, where you can savor dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Unlike Wellington’s urban gastronomic flair, this eatery offers a laid-back atmosphere and flavors that celebrate the region’s agricultural bounty.

Wellington - New Plymouth operators

Explore transport companies operating between Wellington and New Plymouth, 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 New Plymouth Airport (NPL)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
90-240
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Wellington - Central to Palmerston North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
35-933

Bus from Palmerston North to New Plymouth Boys High

Average Duration
3h 44m
Estimated price
40-936
Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Wellington to Palmerston North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
933-934
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Wellington to Palmerston North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
935-60
Drive

Drive from Wellington to New Plymouth

Average Duration
4h 24m
Estimated price
60-90

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

Traveling between Wellington and New Plymouth 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 New Plymouth, covering a distance of 219 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way. 🌄 Take about 4 hours and 24 minutes to reach New Plymouth from Wellington by car, allowing for plenty of time to stop and admire the stunning views. The journey promises a mix of coastal vistas, lush countryside, and urban exploration. 💰 Depending on factors like fuel efficiency and toll roads, the cost of driving from Wellington to New Plymouth typically ranges from $60 to $90. Budget accordingly and set out for a memorable adventure through New Zealand's North Island.
Average price
$60 - $90
🛫 Flying from Wellington Airport to New Plymouth Airport is a quick and convenient option, with the direct flight taking just 1 hour. Air New Zealand provides flights on this route, ensuring a smooth journey for travelers. 🏝️ The total flight time from Wellington to New Plymouth is approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes, offering passengers a relatively short travel duration. This allows for a comfortable and efficient way to reach the charming city of New Plymouth. 💸 Prices for flights between New Plymouth and Wellington typically range from $93 to $240, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. Booking in advance can often help secure the best deals for this domestic route.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
New Plymouth Airport
🚌 The InterCity bus services operate between Wellington - Central and New Plymouth Boys High STUDENTS ONLY, with a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes ⏰. 🚌 Travelers can expect bus fares between $40 - $71 for a one-way trip from Wellington to New Plymouth 🎫.
Departure Point
Wellington - Central station
Arrival Point
New Plymouth Boys High STUDENTS ONLY station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to New Plymouth.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Wellington and New Plymouth is approximately 159 miles, or 218.7 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and bus, it takes about 6 hours and 52 minutes to reach New Plymouth from Wellington. By plane, the travel time is around 2 hours and 33 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes about 4 hours and 24 minutes to reach Wellington from New Plymouth, while taking a bus takes around 6 hours and 49 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Wellington to New Plymouth is by bus. It takes approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $35 and $65. However, if you are looking for a time-efficient option, then flying is your best choice. It takes only 2 hours and 33 minutes, but the cost ranges from $85 to $240. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget and time constraints.
The prices of a bus ticket between Wellington and New Plymouth can range from $39 to $65. It is always a good idea to check with different bus operators or websites to find the best deal for your specific travel dates. Other modes of transportation such as trains and planes may also have different prices, so it is worth considering these options as well to compare costs and choose the most suitable option for your budget and preferences.
To travel from Wellington to New Plymouth without public transportation, you can drive the distance of 219 miles, which takes around 4 hours and 24 minutes. The price for renting a car to make this journey can range from $60 to $90. This option offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes along the way.
To travel from Wellington to New Plymouth without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes and ticket prices range from $35 to $65. This mode of transportation allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route without the worries of driving. Another option could be taking a train from Wellington to a nearby town and then transferring to the bus that goes to New Plymouth.
No, there is no direct link between Wellington and New Plymouth by bus. However, there are bus services operated by InterCity that depart from Wellington - Central and arrive at New Plymouth Boys High STUDENTS ONLY via Palmerston North. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6h 49m. It is worth noting that there are other modes of transportation available, such as trains, planes, and cars, each with their own travel times.
The flight between Wellington and New Plymouth typically takes around 1 hour. The prices for this flight can vary between $88 to $240. It is advisable to check with different airlines and book in advance to ensure the best price. Overall, taking a flight is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between these two cities in New Zealand.
There are over 220 hotels available in New Plymouth offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices for these hotels start at $61, providing budget-friendly options for travelers. Visitors can choose from various locations, amenities, and styles of hotels in and around New Plymouth to suit their preferences and budget.