Timaru to Wanaka: Road Trip Guide & Distance

105.7 miles 170.1 km · straight line
169 miles actual route 272 km · driving distance
3h 35min estimated drive time
NZD 48 - NZD 59 estimated fuel cost
~43min flight time · usually no direct flights
258° WSW bearing direction

How far is Timaru from Wanaka?

The distance from Timaru to Wanaka is 105.7 miles (170.1 km) as the crow flies. Wanaka is located WSW of Timaru. By car, the driving distance is approximately 169 miles, taking about 3h 35min. A direct flight would take roughly 43min. 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. 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 Timaru and Wanaka. 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 Timaru to Wanaka

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 35min NZD 48 - NZD 59 Flexible stops
Bus ~4h 18min $14–$25* Budget
Train ~3h 24min $20–$59* Comfort

Quick Facts

Timaru
44.40°S, 171.25°E
Pacific/Auckland
14m elevation
Wanaka
44.70°S, 169.15°E
Pacific/Auckland
280m elevation
Explore more routes from Wanaka

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 35 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 9 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 235.6 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM