InterCity® operates daily buses from Christchurch to Queenstown. InterCity buses to Queenstown depart Christchurch from outside the Bus Exchange on Lichfield Street and arrive in Queenstown at the Athol Street car park.

Please note: due to roadworks around Athol and Ballarat St, between Monday 14th October to Friday 20th December 2024, our Queenstown stop will move to the carpark at 61 Stanley Street. This temporary stop is located one block over from the usual stop, and is a short 2 min walk away. 

Journey from the vibrant city of Christchurch to the stunning alpine town of Queenstown in just 8 hours and 10 minutes with InterCity. With daily departures, travel through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and scenic passes. Whether you're heading to Queenstown for adventure, relaxation, or to explore its renowned attractions, this scenic trip promises a memorable experience along the way.

Onboard Comfort
Enjoy a relaxing trip with free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.

Popular Stops
The route includes stops at major scenic spots like Tekapo and Cromwell, providing glimpses of the beautiful South Island, as well as Ashburton, Geraldine, Omarama, and Frankton.

Search for a bus from Christchurch to Queenstown with New Zealand's most popular national bus network.

 

About Queenstown

Affectionately known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is a lively town located on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by picturesque mountains. A great ski destination, Queenstown offers awe-inspiring scenery and magnificent outdoor terrain and is known as one of the world's top tourism destinations.

While bungy-jumping, jet boating, skiing and snowboarding are all highly recommended activities in Queenstown, it's not only a destination for the adventurous. For those more interested in a leisurely holiday, Queenstown is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Visit one of the many vineyards nearby for award-winning wine paired with delicious local specialties, take a soak in a hot spring or simply sit back and enjoy the view. 

Queenstown is a great place to get active on one of the many hiking and biking trails. The Ben Lomond Track is a challenging climb however, the incredible panoramic views at the summit are definitely worth it! Other spectacular walking tracks in Queenstown are the Sunshine Bay Track and the Lake Hayes Loop. You can also hire hiking equipment if you don't have any of your own, find out more information here. 

Located very close to Queenstown and described as the eight wonder of the world, Milford Sound is a destination of incredible scenery and outstanding natural beauty. The drive into Milford Sound is just as scenic as the destination itself and many visitors prefer to sit back on board a sightseeing tour bus. InterCity provide daily tours into Milford Sound with glass roof buses, a scenic cruise on the fiord and informative and entertaining driver commentary is also included! Take a look at the options InterCity and GreatSights provide for a memorable day into Milford Sound.

For more information about Queenstown visit Queenstownnz.co.nz

 

FAQs   

  • How long is the trip? The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes.
  • What amenities are provided? Free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
  • Where do the buses depart? Buses leave from the Christchurch Bus Exchange on Lichfield St and arrive in Queenstown at Athol Street, right in the heart of Downtown Queenstown.

Book your trip today and experience the scenic South Island with InterCity!