Terms of Service

Last updated: 1 August 2026 · Governed by New Zealand law

These Terms govern the use of shuttle transport services provided by NZ Bus Trail. Completing a booking or making payment constitutes acceptance of these Terms.

1. Service Overview

We provide scheduled shuttle bus transport across New Zealand's South Island between Christchurch and Queenstown. All vehicles hold a valid NZTA transport licence and comprehensive vehicle insurance. Our service includes transport only — accommodation, local tours and meals are not included.

2. Booking & Payment

  • Bookings can be made via WhatsApp, email or our website
  • A booking is confirmed once payment is received and a voucher is issued by us
  • All fares are in NZD and include 15% GST
  • A credit card processing fee of 2–3% may apply
  • Bookings made within 48 hours of departure are subject to seat availability

3. Passenger Obligations

  • Passengers must arrive at the designated pick-up point 15 minutes before departure. Late arrivals will not be refunded
  • A valid photo ID (passport or government-issued ID) must be carried
  • Behaviour that causes discomfort to other passengers or the driver is prohibited
  • Passengers under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be refused boarding without refund
  • Eating inside the vehicle requires the driver's permission
  • Seatbelts must be worn at all times during travel

4. Luggage

  • Each passenger is entitled to 1 suitcase (max 23kg) + 1 small carry-on free of charge
  • Additional bags will incur a NZD 50 fee per item
  • Dangerous goods, explosives or illegal items are strictly prohibited
  • We are not liable for lost or damaged luggage unless due to our gross negligence

5. Changes & Cancellations

For full details on cancellations and refunds, see our Cancellation & Refund page.

  • We reserve the right to alter schedules or routes due to weather conditions, road closures or other force majeure events
  • We will notify passengers of any delays as promptly as possible
  • Delays of 2 hours or more caused by our fault will be subject to reasonable compensation

6. Limitations of Liability

  • We are not liable for delays caused by traffic, weather or other circumstances beyond our control
  • We are not liable for a passenger's inability to travel due to personal health or other individual circumstances
  • We are not liable for consequential losses such as missed flights or connecting transport
  • Our maximum liability shall not exceed the fare paid for the relevant booking

7. Restrictions

Service may be restricted in the following cases. Please notify us before booking if any of these apply.

  • Passengers using mobility aids, travelling with pets, or requiring refrigerated medication — boarding may be refused without prior notification
  • Pregnant passengers or those with serious medical conditions — a doctor's clearance letter may be required

If a passenger's physical or mental condition is deemed to interfere with safe operation of the service, the driver may refuse boarding in the interest of other passengers' safety. Refunds in such cases are subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

8. Governing Law & Disputes

  • These Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand
  • Any disputes shall be subject to the jurisdiction of New Zealand courts
  • These Terms do not exclude rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or Fair Trading Act 1986

9. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms at any time without prior notice. Changes take effect upon publication. The Terms in force at the time of booking apply to that booking.