What is the exact distance from Christchurch to Dunedin?

The driving distance from Christchurch to Dunedin is 361 kilometers (224 miles). The straight-line distance is 310 km.

How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Dunedin?

The estimated driving time from Christchurch to Dunedin is 4.9 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Christchurch to Dunedin?

The fastest route is typically 361km and takes about 4.9 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Christchurch to Dunedin?

Yes, we provide up to 1 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Christchurch to Dunedin include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Christchurch to Dunedin may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Christchurch to Dunedin?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Christchurch to Dunedin Distance

224 miles•361 km•4.9 hours

Driving distance and route information from Christchurch, New Zealandto Dunedin, New Zealand. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

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FASTEST ROUTE

224.05 mi

(360.57 km)

⏱️4h 52m

Via Cathedral Square, Saint Asaph Street; St Asaph Street

Cathedral Square → Saint Asaph Street; St Asaph Street

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 193 miles (310 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Christchurch to Dunedin

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

224 mi

361 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

4.9 hours

294 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

30 L

$45 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointChristchurch, Canterbury

DestinationDunedin, Otago

Route Options1 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed74 km/h

Straight-line Distance310 km

Route Efficiency86%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Christchurch to Dunedin

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	224 mi (361 km)	4.9 hours	74 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Christchurch to Dunedin

The road journey from Christchurch to Dunedin spans approximately 224 miles (361 kilometers), making it a medium-distance drive that typically requires 4.9 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Canterbury, New Zealand with Otago, New Zealand, traversing through various regions within New Zealand. The journey offers 1 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Christchurch to Dunedin follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 74 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

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Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 9 gallons (30 liters) of fuel for this 224 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

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Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 5.6 hours.

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Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

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Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$31

Toll Costs$11

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$56

Total Trip Cost$99

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

4.9 hours

224 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.4 hours flight

310 km direct

🚌

By Bus

6.4 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route