How to Get Bus and Coach Bargain and Discount Fares
Fact checked by
Erin Medlicott
If you are looking for bargain or discount fares for bus or coach travel within New Zealand, there are several strategies you can employ.
Traveling by bus or coach is one of the most effective ways to get around New Zealand. Not only is it comfortable (as the vehicles are generally modern), but it also provides an opportunity to see more than you might in a car. Furthermore, you will meet interesting people and learn a great deal about the country, including some humorous anecdotes from the driver, who is often a personable Kiwi.
While bus transport is the most economical way to explore New Zealand (excluding walking and hitch-hiking), you can save even more by utilizing some clever tactics. Below are some tips that can help you discover bargains on your bus and coach travel throughout the country.
$1 Bus Fares
At least one prominent coach company offers a $1 fare for all their routes. The concept is that there is at least one $1 ticket available for each trip. Booking these tickets is not as challenging as it might seem, as many travelers are unaware of this option. Tickets are generally released at least three months in advance, so it’s essential to monitor the company website regularly and to register for their email notifications to be informed when tickets are available. The company that typically provides these $1 fares is Intercity, which also frequently offers additional special deals alongside the $1 tickets.
National Tour Passes
Instead of purchasing single journey tickets, consider buying a travel pass. This approach allows for significant savings as you can plan your route with a predetermined number of stops. Numerous passes come with various lengths and cover different regions of the country, often proving to be more economical than buying individual tickets for each leg of the journey. These travel passes also typically offer discounts on accommodations and activities.
Other major companies that provide national coach passes include:
- Magic Bus
- Kiwi Experience (targeted towards younger backpackers)
- Stray Travel
City Bus Networks
Buses in New Zealand’s major cities provide various passes that can help reduce the cost of travel. Visiting the respective city’s website is advisable. The principal ones are listed below:
- Auckland City Buses: Features a hop on/hop off service throughout the center of Auckland City with rides for only 50 cents each, along with other economical options through the inner suburbs.
- Hamilton City Buses
- Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, and Bay of Plenty Buses
- Wellington City Buses
- Christchurch City Buses
- Dunedin City Buses
TradeMe
This might seem a bit unpredictable, but it’s worthwhile to explore TradeMe, New Zealand’s online auction site similar to eBay. Users sell a broad range of items here, and you may find a bus ticket (or even an air ticket) available at a bargain price.
