Getting from Christchurch to Queenstown (and return)
Queenstown is a scenic town located in the South Island , filled with year round attractions and things to do. It sits on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by the Southern Alps.
Getting from Christchurch to Queenstown is not hard at all but choosing the right means of transportation depends on your available time and budget.
Quick summary
If you don’t have much time on your hands, then you should fly between Christchurch and Wellington. The flight time is about an hour and the fares start at US$57 one way. But if you are on a low budget, consider traveling by bus. Tickets start at $39 NZD and the travel time is between 8 hours and 11 hours.
Flights from Christchurch (airport code: CHC) to Queenstown
Queenstown is served by an international airport (code: ZQN), which receives connecting flight from New Zealand’s major cities. Flights from Christchurch to Queenstown are operated by JetStar, Qantas Airways and Air New Zealand.
The cheapest fares are offered by the low cost carrier JetStar. A one way ticket starts at US$57 per person, while return fares start at US$114 per person. The flight time is 55 minutes.
>>read more about Cheap flights to Christchurch
Buses from Christchurch to Queenstown
InterCity Coachlines and Newmans Coach Lines offer direct links between cities on the South Island, including between Christchurch and Queenstown.
Both InterCity Coachlines and Newmans Coach Lines have three departures per day. The travel time is between 8 hours and almost 11 hours, depending on the type of bus. On the fast bus, regardless of the company you choose, the fares start at $39 NZD (non refundable).
>>read more about Bus Travel in New Zealand
Driving from Christchurch to Queenstown
Driving in New Zealand is a real pleasure, especially since you get to pass superb scenery. So, rent a car and explore the country at your own pace. There are 481 km between Christchurch and Queenstown, which you should be able to cover in little more than 6 hours.