InterCity has added four new New Zealand-built buses to its fleet, with the first vehicles entering service this month on key long-haul routes.
The coaches, which will operate between Auckland and Tauranga and Auckland and Wellington, are designed to improve passenger comfort and safety.
InterCity, owned by Entrada Travel Group, connects passengers to more than 600 destinations nationwide. The company says the new buses represent a significant investment as it upgrades its long-distance offering.
Passengers can choose between GOLD premium leather seats with extra legroom, reclining seatbacks and USB charging points, or standard reclining seats also fitted with USB charging.
The buses are equipped with a new 12-speed gearbox designed to provide smoother gear changes and a more comfortable ride.
InterCity chief operating officer Sam Peate says the purchase underlines the company’s commitment to long-distance travel.
“Acquiring these new buses has been a significant investment for InterCity. Unlike other public transport operations, InterCity does not receive any form of funding or subsidy,” Peate says.
“The investment in these coaches demonstrates InterCity’s commitment to giving commuters and tourists more options for long-distance transport.”
The vehicles also feature upgraded safety systems, including an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) with intelligent sensors, lane departure warnings and a Smart Dash digital cockpit display.
The buses were bodied in New Zealand by Kiwi Bus Builders and carry a simplified all-white livery. Two of the four entered service over Waitangi weekend, with the remaining two expected to join the fleet by the end of February.
