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Wellington, Wellington to Wanaka, Otago from $68: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Wellington, New Zealand
to
Wanaka, New Zealand

How to Get from Wellington to Wanaka: 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.

$68 by busBest price
599 kmDistance
4h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wellington to Wanaka 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
4h  29m
Estimated price
$489-986
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  1m
Estimated price
$68-289
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 599 km
Duration: 4h 29m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
18h  32m
Estimated price
$194-260
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
12h  34m
Estimated price
$242-328
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
25h  25m
Estimated price
$315-4890
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Wellington to Wanaka

This journey from Wellington, with its vibrant urban culture and coastal views, to Wanaka, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, offers a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wanaka

Wanaka boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Lake Wanaka
• Stunning views of the lake and mountains.
• Ideal for water sports and scenic strolls.
Cardrona Valley
• Home to incredible ski resorts.
• Charming rural scenery and historic charm.
Rippon Vineyard
• Renowned for its award-winning wines.
• Offers breathtaking vineyard views and tastings.

Best Times To Visit Wanaka's Attractions

Timing your visit to Wanaka's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Skyline Queenstown
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Spring and fall offer mild weather and vibrant landscapes, with fewer hikers.
Wanaka Tree
Early mornings or weekdays provide a peaceful setting for photos and relaxation.

Wanaka Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wanaka enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it a year-round destination. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your activities, ensuring you take advantage of the stunning scenery and outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Wanaka

At The Cow Restaurant, savor the mouthwatering homemade pizzas topped with local ingredients amidst a cozy, rustic atmosphere that feels worlds apart from Wellington's bustling dining scene. This experience emphasizes the charm of Wanaka, where food and nature blend harmoniously, enhancing the flavors with stunning views.

Wellington - Wanaka operators

Explore transport companies operating between Wellington and Wanaka, 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 Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$4899-9860

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Wanaka (WKA)

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$9863-9864
Website
soundsair.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Wanaka (WKA)

Average Duration
5h 22m
Estimated price
$9861-9862
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Wellington (WLG) to Queenstown (ZQN)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$48985-9865
Train
Contact phone
+64 4498 3302
Website
interislander.co.nz

Train from Wellington - Central to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$9866-0
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 833 6053
Website
ritchies.co.nz

Bus from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka lakefront

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$9867-9868

Bus from Athol Street Queenstown to Wanaka lakefront

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$682-9868
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Picton to Christchurch

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$685-9866

Bus from Christchurch to Tekapo

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$686-48975

Bus from Tekapo to Tarras

Average Duration
2h 14m
Estimated price
$687-48975
Ferry
Contact phone
+64 4 471 6188
Website
bluebridge.co.nz

Ferry from Wellington to Picton

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$6820-6840
Shuttle
Contact phone
+64 9 390 7380
Website
cheekykiwitravel.com

Shuttle from Christchurch to Queenstown

Average Duration
11h 30m
Estimated price
$688-689

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

Traveling between Wellington and Wanaka 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.

🛫 Flying from Wellington to Wanaka requires a connecting flight due to the absence of a direct route. The quickest available option takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes with one stopover. 🌄 Air New Zealand and Sounds Air are the primary carriers offering flights from Wellington Airport to Wanaka Airport. The total duration of the journey amounts to approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes, providing travelers with a convenient and efficient route to their destination. 💸 When booking a flight from Wellington to Wanaka, passengers can expect prices to range from $489 to $986, showcasing flexibility in budget options for this route. This affordable travel choice allows for seamless access to the picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures awaiting visitors in Wanaka.
Departure Point
Wellington Airport
Arrival Point
Wanaka Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 25m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider Air New Zealand for its reliability and extensive schedule; check their website at nz.airnewzealand.com for the best flight times and prices, as they often provide the quickest one-stop routes.
• Upon arrival at Wanaka Airport, expect a smaller terminal with limited amenities; familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand using the airport map available at wanakairport.co.nz to navigate efficiently and locate transportation options swiftly.
• Taxi fares from Wanaka Airport to the city center typically range from NZD 30 to NZD 50, so it's advisable to budget accordingly and consider booking ahead with a local provider; check out Wanaka's local transport options at wanakataxi.co.nz

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wellington to Wanaka.

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The distance between Wellington and Wanaka is approximately 372 miles. The typical travel time to reach Wanaka from Wellington by flying to Queenstown and then taking a bus is around 5 hours and 1 minute. Alternatively, it takes about 4 hours and 24 minutes to travel from Wellington to Wanaka by plane.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Wellington to Wanaka is to fly and then take a bus. This option takes approximately 5 hours and 1 minute and costs between $65 and $280. If time is the primary concern, flying directly from Wellington to Wanaka is the fastest option, taking approximately 4 hours and 24 minutes, but it is also more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $480 to $1000.
To travel from Wellington to Wanaka without a car, the best option is to take a car ferry and then a bus. This journey typically takes around 20 hours and costs between $160 and $240. The car ferry will take you across the Cook Strait to the South Island, and from there, you can catch a bus to Wanaka. It is advisable to check the ferry and bus schedules in advance to plan your journey accordingly.
The flight from Wellington to Wanaka typically takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes with one stopover. However, it is important to note that there is no direct flight between the two cities. The prices of flights between Wanaka and Wellington can range from $488 to $985, depending on the time of year and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are many options for accommodation near Wanaka. With over 437 hotels available, visitors can choose from a range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $72 per night, providing a variety of affordable choices for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there are plenty of options to choose from near Wanaka.

Trips from Wellington