Christchurch to Timaru: Road Trip Guide & Distance

90.9 miles 146.3 km · straight line
101.5 miles actual route 163.4 km · driving distance
2h 20min estimated drive time
NZD 29 - NZD 35 estimated fuel cost
~41min flight time · usually no direct flights
229° SW bearing direction

How far is Christchurch from Timaru?

The distance from Christchurch to Timaru is 90.9 miles (146.3 km) as the crow flies. Timaru is located SW of Christchurch. By car, the driving distance is approximately 101.5 miles, taking about 2h 20min. A direct flight would take roughly 41min. Both are located in New Zealand.

This is a quick and easy drive, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. You can easily make the round trip in a single day. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Christchurch and Timaru. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Christchurch to Timaru

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 2h 20min NZD 29 - NZD 35 Flexible stops
Bus ~2h 48min $8–$15* Budget
Train ~2h 13min $12–$36* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Christchurch & Timaru

Quick Facts

Christchurch
43.53°S, 172.63°E
Pacific/Auckland
14m elevation
Timaru
44.40°S, 171.25°E
Pacific/Auckland
14m elevation
Explore more routes from Timaru

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 30 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 8 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 273.9 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM