1.5 - 2 hours.
about 2 1/2 hours depending on how many stops you have
That would be Jono Naylor (2007 - current).
Depends upon your definition of inland, but Christchurch would have to figure on the list. Hamilton and Palmerston North would be the other runners.
6 hours if driving solidly
You would be in Wellington, in the capital located in the North Island
In Palmerston North during the 1870s, common jobs would have included farming, sawmilling, mining, blacksmithing, and working in general stores or hotels. The town was still developing, so there would have been opportunities in construction, carpentry, and other trades as well. Additionally, government positions such as police officers or civil servants would have been available.
Wellington is centered at about 41.32° south latitude. That would be about 1.32° more souther than 40° south latitude.
You would drive north.
Christchurch centre is some distance from the coastline, but there are several sea-side suburbs. Palmerston North, and Hamilton would be the largest cities distant from the sea.
The drive from Auckland to Wellington is about 9 hours. The ferry trip across Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton is 3.5 hours plus a 1 hour check in time when travelling with a vehicle. The drive from Picton to Dunedin is about 9 hours. The total time would be at least 22.5 hours plus breaks.
wellington
It takes about 5 - 5 1/2 hours, this includes some brief stops.