Magic calls themselves "New Zealand's transport network for independent travellers." This is the bus to take if you
are in a hurry to get from point A to B but don't mind a few stops along the way. Coaches travel on a fixed routed around New Zealand,
allowing you to hop on and off at your own pace.
All tickets are valid for 12 months and cover simply your transport. They believe in the freedom of choice, allowing you to book your
own activities and accommodation. They provide "superior service at a reasonable cost that gives you unprecedented independence and the
opportunity to enjoy all New Zealand has to offer." Your Magic driver will provide you with a variety of hostels to choose from and they can even book
them directly for you. They also provide drop off and pick up service from the door.
The flexibility of being able to travel at a pace that suits you is the key to Magic. Coaches depart from each overnight stop a
minimum of
4 days per week and run daily over the summer months. They only require 24 hours notice to guarantee you a seat on the next coach.
When you book your Magic tour, you will receive a Magic Travellers Guide with ideas of the activities available in each region, the approximate costs and
the Magic discount you should receive by showing your Magic ticket. Your driver can also provide you with up to date information.
Self-catering options are available at most hostels and thus the coaches stop at fresh fruit and vegetable markets as well a supermarkets, allowing
you to stock up on essentials. Some nights you may even organize a group barbecue, giving you the
opportunity to mix and mingle further with the people on your trip.
Here are what we think the best Magic tours are... (There are a bunch more available, but these cover the most for the best amount of money)
 | Northern Discovery
Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Napier, Mt Maunganui
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| | North & South
Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Picton, Nelson, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Dunedin, Tekapo, Christchurch
|
| | Total Northland
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| | Tranzalpine Experience
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| | Wayward Wanderer
Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Nelson, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Dunedin, Tekapo, Christchurch, Kaikoura, Napier, Mt Maunganui
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| | Wild West Coast
Queenstown, Greymouth, Franz Josef
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Some information from Magic Travellers Network.
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