InterCity Coachlines Preparing for record Easter Travel

3rd April 2012

InterCity Coachlines Preparing for a record Easter Travel Period

Rising fuel prices and cheap fares from $1 have seen InterCity Coachlines preparing for a record Easter travel period, with increased passenger demand across the country.

Thousands of extra seats have been added over the Easter weekend to cope with the increased passenger demand - according to Malcolm Johns, Chief executive of InterCity Group, Easter 2012 looks set to be a record travel period.

“We’ve seen very strong booking patterns over the past few weeks and ticket sales up around 20% on Easter last year. The North Island is especially busy and we are bringing in up to 20 additional coaches for departures from Auckland and Wellington this weekend.” said Mr Johns.

Traditionally the second busiest holiday period after Christmas, Easter holiday travellers have been quick to book seats on the InterCity network: this Thursday evening will see a total of six coaches operating on the popular Auckland to Wellington overnight service.

“Customers have been becoming more technology focused for several years and we are seeing more bookings coming through both our own web site and our agent’s web sites. At this stage it is looking like we will come close to doubling bookings via online sales outlets.”

“Not all our customers have access to a credit card but the recent introduction of an online banking payment facility has really opened the door for customers to use technology to contact us and our agents to book this year.” said Mr Johns.

Customer’s travelling with InterCity from Auckland this Thursday can also expect to see the Easter Bunny who will be on hand with a basket of Easter treats.

Seats are still available for travel this weekend across the InterCity network however customers are encouraged to book early to ensure a seat.

For service information and to book visit: www.intercity.co.nz

About InterCity

InterCity Group consists of four brands including:

• InterCity Coachlines provides New Zealand's largest national passenger transportation network connecting to more than 600 destinations nationwide, with over 150 services every day. Fares on InterCity services start from just $1 (+booking fee). Visit www.intercity.co.nz.

• GreatSights New Zealand, offering luxury state-of-the-art coaches, including three glass topped coaches, with expert driver guides delivering informative and entertaining commentary. Daily sightseeing tours with GreatSights include entry and guided tours through some of New Zealand's most renowned attractions. Visit www.greatsights.co.nz

• Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands offers a range of land and marine-based activities throughout Northland including dolphin watching/swimming cruises, as well as a guided scenic coach tours to Cape Reinga and the Hokianga. Visit www.dolphincruises.co.nz

• awesomeNZ, which offers tourists up close and personal experiences that are stimulating, educational and inspiring. There are currently a total of nine experiences, eight of which are based in the Northland region. Visit www.awesomeNZ.com

ENDS

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