Discover how to see New Zealand and all the scenic highlights the easy way
Any good New Zealand travel itinerary should include Milford Sound. But deciding where else you should go, and what you should see on a New Zealand holiday can be difficult. Ask any Kiwi (New Zealander) and we’ll tell you about dozens of ‘must-see’ places to add to your plans. Luckily, planning your travel around New Zealand just got easier.
New Zealand doesn’t have a comprehensive train network, and flying from place to place means you’ll miss a lot of that famous scenery. The roads can be narrower and bendier than many international visitors are used to. And of course we drive on the left in New Zealand, which can present a challenge depending on your country of origin.
For these reasons, travelling by bus or coach can be one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to travel around New Zealand. The InterCity bus network connects more than 600 towns, cities and communities across both the North and South Islands. It also includes both regular bus travel on InterCity buses, and sightseeing coach tours with GreatSights.
Coach travel around New Zealand
InterCity makes it easy for visitors who are unfamiliar with popular travelling routes or unsure which ‘must see’ places to add to their itinerary. They’ve got two great bus passes which are cost-effective, easy to use and convenient. By pre-purchasing your travel around New Zealand in one go, you can rest easy knowing your travel is sorted.
The FlexiPass and TravelPass are two InterCity bus passes that offer big savings compared to normal bus bookings. Both include sightseeing tours to New Zealand’s popular attractions, as well as the Interislander ferry. Some TravelPass itineraries even include the TranzAlpine train ride. There are plenty of different options to choose from, such as an hours-based pass or a series of pre-planned itineraries. In addition to these features, planning and booking travel online is a breeze with example itineraries and a network map which can be useful when planning your trip. Learn more about InterCity’s FlexiPass and TravelPass here.
GreatSights and Gray Line are luxury sightseeing tour companies. Both visit popular destinations along some of New Zealand’s most scenic routes. Their luxury coaches are very comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and entertaining commentary from experienced drivers. You’ll learn a lot about New Zealand’s landscape, history and culture and their friendly guides know the best places to stop for great photos! From the very top of the North Island to Milford Sound deep in the south, GreatSights and Gray Line can take you around New Zealand in comfort.
Getting around New Zealand by bus or coach is hassle-free, cost-effective and much easier then driving than yourself on unfamiliar roads. Not to mention, it’s a great way to learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand and meet other like-minded travellers!
*selected passes only
