šļø How to Get to Wanaka From Sydney [2025 Guide]
Wanaka, located in the heart of New Zealandās South Island, is a breathtaking alpine town famous for Lake Wanaka, ski resorts, and adventure sports. Whether youāre visiting for winter skiing at Treble Cone or summer hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park, getting from Sydney to Wanaka in 2025 is straightforward with flights, buses, and scenic drives.
This guide covers all travel options from Sydney to Wanaka, including flight routes, driving times, public transport, and tours ā plus costs, travel tips, and links to official transport resources.
āļø Option 1: Flying from Sydney to Wanaka (Fastest Way)
There are no direct flights from Sydney to Wanaka Airport, but the most common route is:
Sydney ā Queenstown Airport ā Wanaka (by road)
- Airlines: Qantas, Air New Zealand, Jetstar
- Flight Time: ~3 hours to Queenstown
- Queenstown to Wanaka: ~1 hour drive or bus
You can rent a car at Queenstown Airport or take a shuttle bus to Wanaka.
š Check schedules and fares at Queenstown Airport.
š Option 2: Driving from Queenstown to Wanaka
If you want scenic flexibility, driving from Queenstown is the best choice.
- Distance: ~67 km
- Duration: ~1 hour via Crown Range Road (most scenic) or State Highway 6 (easier in winter).
- Rental Cars: Available from all major providers at Queenstown Airport.
Crown Range Road offers stunning alpine views, but in winter, check NZ Transport Agency Road Conditions for closures.
š Option 3: Bus from Queenstown to Wanaka
Several bus operators run direct services:
This is ideal for budget travellers who donāt want to drive.
š³ļø Option 4: Scenic Route via Christchurch (Multi-Day Trip)
If you want a scenic South Island road trip, you can fly into Christchurch and then drive or bus to Wanaka.
- Christchurch to Wanaka: ~6 hrs drive via Lake Tekapo and Lindis Pass.
- Best for: Those combining Wanaka with stops like Mount Cook and Tekapo Hot Springs.
š Sydney to Wanaka Travel Summary (2025)
| Mode | Duration | Cost (Approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + Car from QT | 4ā5 hrs total | From AUD $350 return | Fastest, flexible sightseeing |
| Flight + Bus from QT | 4.5ā5 hrs | From AUD $300 return | Budget + comfort |
| Christchurch Scenic Drive | 2+ days trip | Varies | Scenic NZ road trip experience |
š Travel Tips for Visiting Wanaka in 2025
- Best time to visit: JuneāSeptember for skiing, DecemberāMarch for hiking & water sports.
- Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
- Transport tip: In winter, carry snow chains if driving via Crown Range.
- Top attractions: That Wanaka Tree, Royās Peak Track, Cardrona Alpine Resort.
š FAQs
Q1: Can you fly directly from Sydney to Wanaka?
No, you must fly to Queenstown Airport and then travel by road to Wanaka.
Q2: How long is the drive from Queenstown to Wanaka?
It takes about 1 hour via Crown Range Road or 1 hr 15 mins via State Highway 6.
Q3: Whatās the cheapest way to get from Sydney to Wanaka?
Flying to Queenstown with a budget airline and taking a bus is usually the most affordable option.
Q4: When is the best time to visit Wanaka?
Winter (JuneāSeptember) for skiing, and summer (DecemberāMarch) for hiking, lake activities, and festivals.