Gisborne to Palmerston North: Road Trip Guide & Distance

173.5 miles 279.3 km · straight line
240.4 miles actual route 386.9 km · driving distance
5h 12min estimated drive time
NZD 68 - NZD 84 estimated fuel cost
~51min flight time
227° SW bearing direction

How far is Gisborne from Palmerston North?

The distance from Gisborne to Palmerston North is 173.5 miles (279.3 km) as the crow flies. Palmerston North is located SW of Gisborne. By car, the driving distance is approximately 240.4 miles, taking about 5h 12min. A direct flight would take roughly 51min. Both are located in New Zealand — Gisborne in Gisborne and Palmerston North in Manawatu-Wanganui.

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. 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 Gisborne and Palmerston North. 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 Gisborne to Palmerston North

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 12min NZD 68 - NZD 84 Flexible stops
Fly ~51min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 14min $19–$36* Budget
Train ~4h 56min $29–$84* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Gisborne & Palmerston North

Quick Facts

Gisborne
38.65°S, 178.00°E
Pacific/Auckland
10m elevation
Palmerston North
40.36°S, 175.61°E
Pacific/Auckland
34m elevation
Explore more routes from Palmerston North

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 58 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 14 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 143.5 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM