Dunedin to Timaru: Road Trip Guide & Distance

108.4 miles 174.5 km · straight line
122.3 miles actual route 196.9 km · driving distance
2h 46min estimated drive time
NZD 35 - NZD 43 estimated fuel cost
~43min flight time · usually no direct flights
20° NNE bearing direction

How far is Dunedin from Timaru?

The distance from Dunedin to Timaru is 108.4 miles (174.5 km) as the crow flies. Timaru is located NNE of Dunedin. By car, the driving distance is approximately 122.3 miles, taking about 2h 46min. A direct flight would take roughly 43min. Both are located in New Zealand — Dunedin in Otago and Timaru in Canterbury.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. 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 Dunedin 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 Dunedin to Timaru

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 2h 46min NZD 35 - NZD 43 Flexible stops
Bus ~3h 19min $10–$18* Budget
Train ~2h 38min $15–$43* Comfort

Quick Facts

Dunedin
45.87°S, 170.50°E
Pacific/Auckland
21m 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 36 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 9 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 229.7 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM