However you decide to travel around New Zealand, you’ll love its beautiful scenery and friendly locals. But before you make your decision on how to get around, can we point out a few benefits of choosing to experience NZ by bus instead of hiring a rental car?
1. Sit back, relax and see the sights
New Zealand is often praised for its beautiful scenery. It seems like around every bend in the road, more picturesque views await. You could drive yourself and spend your time checking the sat-nav, remembering the New Zealand road rules and worrying about how much petrol you have left… or you could leave the driving to the professionals and actually see the sights as you travel!
Step on board, settle into your seat and see the sights from up above. Those big bus windows are great for taking photos as the world flashes by – or if you want, you can take a nap. It’s up to you!
2. Learn as you travel
While they don’t keep up a full-scale commentary (and keep you from your nap), bus drivers tend to know a lot about the routes they drive. If you’re lucky they might share some stories and local history, or even sing you a song!
3. Stay connected
If you travel with InterCity, you can enjoy free wifi on board. Stay in touch with family and friends around the world (and post your New Zealand travel pictures to make them jealous). You can’t check your Facebook or your Instagram while you’re driving, now, can you?
4. Meet the locals
People from all walks of life take the bus in New Zealand, giving you a chance to meet locals instead of just other backpackers. New Zealanders love talking about their country so if you strike up a conversation, there’s a good chance you’ll end up learning some local secrets along the way.
5. There’s room for your luggage
Forget cramming your belongings into the back of your car and squishing your way into your seat, wedged between your snorkelling gear and your sleeping bag. InterCity buses have the most generous luggage allowance in the country, so you can bring plenty of bags (for free!) with you. Leave them securely in the luggage compartment and cruise along in comfort with just your carry-on.
6. See small town New Zealand
For a truly authentic Kiwi experience you really need to get out of the cities and tourist traps and spend some time in the smaller towns. InterCity connects more than 600 towns, cities and communities around New Zealand, from Kaitaia in the north to Invercargill in the south, so it’s easy to get off the beaten track and see what Kiwi life is really like.
There you have it – some great reasons to let someone else do the driving on your New Zealand travels. If you’ve made your mind up, why not take a look at some New Zealand bus pass options, or explore some top New Zealand destinations.
InterCity bus passengers stop to play in the snow on the famous Desert Road!