Ditch the Departure Lounge: Why the Bus is Better

When it comes to getting around New Zealand, many people automatically think of hopping on a plane. But have you ever considered taking the bus? Trust us, there are plenty of reasons why travelling with InterCity is a fantastic alternative to flying. Let's dive into the top benefits of bus travel in New Zealand!

Cost Savings

Let’s start with the big one—saving money! Flights are expensive these days, especially when you add up all the extra costs like baggage fees, seat selection, transport to and from the airport and those pricey departure lounge snacks. Buses, on the other hand, are the more budget-friendly option. InterCity offers great deals and discounts, so you can travel across Aotearoa without breaking the bank. Plus, you won’t have to worry about hidden fees popping up along the way, apart from maybe a pie and drink during your rest break!

Go the Green Way

We all know that flying isn’t the best for the environment. Planes produce a significant amount of carbon emissions which contribute heavily to the climate change problem. Buses, however, are a greener option. They produce significantly fewer emissions per passenger compared to planes, making them an eco-friendlier choice. By choosing to travel by bus, you’re doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint and help protect New Zealand for future generations.

Convenience

Think about the hassle of getting to and from the airport. It’s often located far from the city centre, and you have to deal with long security lines and the stress of making sure you don’t miss your flight. InterCity on the other hand has stops in central locations, making it much easier to hop on and off. Plus, there’s no need to arrive hours in advance or worry about your liquids being over 100ml!

Scenic Views

New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, and travelling by bus allows you to soak it all in. From rolling hills and lush forests to stunning coastlines and snow-capped mountains, the views from a bus window are simply unbeatable. It’s like getting a free sightseeing tour as you travel to your destination. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way!

Flexibility

InterCity offer a lot of flexibility in terms of scheduling. With frequent departures and various routes, you have more options to choose from when planning your trip. Need to change your ticket? No problem—InterCity's Flexi Fares can be changed or cancelled up to 2 hours before departure with a full refund*. This flexibility can make your travel experience much more enjoyable and less stressful, especially compared with the often confusing airfare change policies!

Meeting New People

One of the best things about bus travel is the opportunity to meet new people. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, buses are a great place to strike up a conversation and make new friends. You never know who you might meet or what interesting stories they might have to share. It’s a great way to make your journey more memorable and enjoyable.

So, next time you’re planning a domestic trip through New Zealand, consider catching a bus instead of flying. With cost savings, environmental benefits, and the chance to enjoy the stunning scenery, bus travel has a lot to offer. Plus, it’s a more relaxed and flexible way to get around. Give it a try—you might just find that you prefer it to flying! Happy travels!