Compared to enormous land masses like Australia and the United States, New Zealand is relatively compact. It's arranged over two main islands, helpfully known as the North Island and South Island. The stretch of sea dividing them (Cook Strait) can be crossed easily by plane or ferry.
Travelling by road from Christchurch in the south to Auckland in the north takes about 16 hours, including the ferry journey. But in between these two cities are places of such breathtaking diversity you'll barely believe you're in the same country.
Being on a bus allows you to spend all of your time soaking in the scenery. There's no need to worry about keeping your eyes glued to the road or the speedometer. Let someone else do that for you!
You also don't need to worry about driving on the left along unfamiliar roads. All you need to do on bus tours in New Zealand is sit comfortably and be amazed, mile after mile.
Discover hidden gems
There are a few tourist spots that everyone should see when they visit New Zealand. These include:
- Aoraki/Mount Cook
- Milford Sound
- Rotorua
- Cities of Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch
But there are so many gems you'd simply drive past if you didn't have an itinerary put together and guided by locals. Activities like lunches with locals, or experiences that will give you an insight into Maori culture. Trips to vineyards, kiwifruit orchards and perhaps a helicopter flight over a spectacular South Island glacier.
On bus tours, you'll be taken right to the doorstep in comfort, with zero navigation needed.
Great company
Bus tours are an excellent opportunity to see New Zealand in the company of like-minded people. You'll be with others who love to travel and explore the world. But rather than being like ships that pass in the night, you'll have time for lots of friendly conversation, and make lifelong friends..
Don't worry about being on a bus with 50 strangers. With 18 travellers maximum, small group bus tours in New Zealand are designed to be safe, relaxing, and enjoyable, not overwhelming. There are also plenty of opportunities for quiet moments on your own or with your travelling companion.
Suits different activity levels
As long as you are fit and healthy, you'll be able to enjoy the tour. There will be some walking at each stop but you can tailor this to suit your needs. If you prefer not to walk for long periods, that's no problem.
If you love nothing more than walking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore.
Caters for all needs
Traveling overseas when you have dietary restrictions can cause concern. That's why New Zealand tours by bus are such a great choice. All you have to do is let your tour operator know about your needs in advance.
Whether you need dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, or something else, rest assured that you will be provided with exactly what you need.
Fair seating for all
Are you worried you may get stuck at the back of the bus and miss out on the best views? Choose a company that operates a seating rotation policy.
This means that you will get to sit in different parts of the bus throughout the journey. Tour companies do this to ensure everyone enjoys a variety of views and nobody misses out.
