- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Fine art museum in nearby Bournemouth, famous for Victorian paintings, Japanese objects, and richly decorated historic interiors.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Wellington to Christchurch
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$170
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$195
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
6 h 6 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
225 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Wellington to Christchurch is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Wellington to Christchurch will cost around $195 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $170.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 trains from Wellington to Christchurch, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 225 km distance in an average of 6 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 52 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 6 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:23 AM5h52Wellington1:15 PMChristchurch$1701One-way0 transfers- 9:53 AM6h20Wellington4:13 PMChristchurch$2201One-way0 transfers
- 7:23 AM5h52Wellington1:15 PMChristchurch$1701One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM6h20Wellington4:13 PMChristchurch$2201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Wellington to Christchurch
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Wellington to Christchurch among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $74 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, while a train costs an average of $203.
Distance: 139 miles (225 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
$203 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest |
4h 44m Average total duration Fastest 4h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Wellington to Christchurch is a bus with an average price of $74.
This is compared to other travel options from Wellington to Christchurch:
A bus is $129 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Wellington to Christchurch costing on average $203.
The fastest way to travel from Wellington to Christchurch is by train with an average journey time of 4h 14m.
Other travel options to Christchurch take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Wellington and Christchurch including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Wellington to Christchurch among Omio's users.
Live departures
Wellington to Christchurch train times
The table below shows live departures for Wellington to Christchurch trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:23 AM Wellington | 5h52 | 1:15 PM Christchurch | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:53 AM Wellington | 6h20 | 4:13 PM Christchurch | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Wellington to Christchurch by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Sep 20
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Wellington to Christchurch
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Wellington to Christchurch run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $166 but you can travel from only $52 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:23, the last at 19:30. The fastest train covers the 139 miles (225 km) distance in 4h 7m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $52
Distance 139 miles (225 km) |
Average train duration 4h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $166 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 4h 7m |
First train 5:23 AM |
Last train 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $52
Complete guide to Christchurch
Things to do in Christchurch
Discover the best of Christchurch — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Christchurch trip today.
- Recommended
Red House Museum and Gardens
Local history museum in an 18th-century workhouse, with exhibits on Christchurch life, archaeology, and the town’s riverside heritage.
- Recommended
Russell-Cotes Aviation Museum
Volunteer-run museum covering aviation from the First World War onward, with aircraft, cockpits, and strong local airport connections.
- Must visit
Christchurch Quay
Attractive quay with river views, boat activity, and easy walks. It is one of Christchurch’s most relaxing and photogenic areas.
- Must visit
The Priory and Castle Gardens
Formal riverside park beside the priory and castle, known for flower displays, lawns, and postcard views across the water.
- Must visit
Hengistbury Head Spit
Long shingle spit reached by ferry or on foot, prized for beaches, harbour views, beach huts, and a sense of escape.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Dorset Knob
Dorset Knob is a hard, dry twice-baked bread biscuit from nearby Dorset, traditionally eaten with cheese or as a local teatime snack.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Blue Vinny Cheese
Blue Vinny is a traditional Dorset blue cheese with a crumbly texture and rich savoury flavour, revived as a regional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Dorset Apple Cake
Dorset apple cake is a spiced local cake packed with apples, long associated with county baking and village fêtes.
The Jetty Restaurant
Well-known modern Indian restaurant in Highcliffe, praised for polished service, refined dishes and an elegant dining room.
The Boathouse
Popular waterside restaurant by Christchurch Quay serving seafood, grills and British favourites in a relaxed modern setting.
The Priory Fryer
Historic priory-side tea rooms and café known for cream teas, lunches and traditional cakes in a characterful old building.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels cost more in peak season, dining is typical UK pricing, and local buses are reasonably priced for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
More Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.20
To the city center
Christchurch Railway Station -> Christchurch High Street, Christchurch
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Morebus buses; tap on board for adult single and day tickets.
- Christchurch rail tickets are separate from local bus fares, so buy bus tickets in the More Bus app or on board.
FAQs: Trains from Wellington to Christchurch
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Wellington to Christchurch by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Christchurch, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Wellington to Christchurch can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $166, while the average price is around $203.
The train from Wellington to Christchurch takes 4h 7m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Wellington to Christchurch is 139 miles (225 km).
The first train from Wellington to Christchurch leaves at 5:23 AM.
The last train from Wellington to Christchurch leaves at 7:30 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Wellington to Christchurch.
The train station in Wellington that goes to Christchurch is Wellington (Shropshire) (WLN), which connects to Christchurch station (CHR).
The cheapest way to get from Wellington to Christchurch is by bus, with a cost of around $52.
Yes, the Wellington to Christchurch train journey is considered scenic, offering views of the rugged coastline, rolling farmland, and the picturesque Marlborough region.
A day trip from Wellington to Christchurch is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 7m each way. Trains run 3 times per day.
A visit to Christchurch can be comfortably enjoyed over 2 to 3 days, allowing time to explore its vibrant arts scene, heritage sites, and nearby natural attractions like the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula.
No, you cannot take the train from Wellington to Christchurch.
Since neither Wellington nor Christchurch are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Christchurch include London, Bournemouth, Eastleigh, New Milton, Southampton.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Wellington to Christchurch among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Christchurch, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Scams involving unofficial taxi services or inflated fares can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxi companies or ride-sharing apps. Additionally, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings at night and avoid isolated areas to ensure personal safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Wellington to Christchurch
Most Wellington to Christchurch trains use the Wellington (Shropshire) to Christchurch station pair. Use this guide to compare Wellington and Christchurch train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Wellington
Arrival train stations in Christchurch
Which Wellington station do trains to Christchurch leave from?
Trains from Wellington to Christchurch leave from Wellington (Shropshire). The station is from Wellington city centre at Wellington station, Station Road, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1BY.
Wellington (Shropshire)Wellington station, Station Road, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1BY+44 333 311 0039
City-centre transport
Getting to Wellington (Shropshire) from Wellington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: In "No parking" area at top of station car park near to roundabout at junction of King Street/Victoria Road for (both directions).
Wellington (Shropshire) train station facilities and services
Wellington (Shropshire) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wellington (Shropshire). Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wellington (Shropshire): Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wellington (Shropshire): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wellington (Shropshire): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is located on platform one, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Christchurch station do trains from Wellington arrive at?
Trains from Wellington to Christchurch arrive at Christchurch. Christchurch is 0 miles (1 km) from Christchurch city centre.
ChristchurchChristchurch station, Stour Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1PL
City-centre transport
Getting to Christchurch from Christchurch city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStour Road bus stop outside of station
Christchurch train station facilities and services
Christchurch has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Christchurch.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Christchurch.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Christchurch.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Christchurch: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Christchurch: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Christchurch: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B station - This station has level access from the main entrance and car park to Platform 1 (for trains towards Weymouth). There is level access from Clarendon Road to Platform 2 (for trains towards London Waterloo) via a separate entrance. The step-free route between platforms is approximately 475m via the street. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Wellington
More options for your journey from Wellington to Christchurch
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Christchurch and Wellington
Most popular train connections to Christchurch
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