Lake Tekapo to Te Anau: Road Trip Guide & Distance

167.4 miles 269.4 km · straight line
258.1 miles actual route 415.4 km · driving distance
5h 21min estimated drive time
NZD 73 - NZD 90 estimated fuel cost
~50min flight time
233° SW bearing direction

How far is Lake Tekapo from Te Anau?

The distance from Lake Tekapo to Te Anau is 167.4 miles (269.4 km) as the crow flies. Te Anau is located SW of Lake Tekapo. By car, the driving distance is approximately 258.1 miles, taking about 5h 21min. A direct flight would take roughly 50min. Both are located in New Zealand.

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.

Coordinates come from public place data for Lake Tekapo and Te Anau. 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 Lake Tekapo to Te Anau

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 21min NZD 73 - NZD 90 Flexible stops
Fly ~50min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 25min $21–$39* Budget
Train ~5h 5min $31–$90* Comfort

For 2+ travelers, driving is usually cheaper. Solo? Consider the bus.

* Estimated range. Actual prices vary by date and provider.

Suggested Stops Between Lake Tekapo & Te Anau

Quick Facts

Lake Tekapo
44.00°S, 170.48°E
Pacific/Auckland
710m elevation
Te Anau
45.42°S, 167.72°E
Pacific/Auckland
210m elevation

From Lake Tekapo

From Te Anau

Explore more routes from Te Anau

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 56 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 14 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 148.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM