National “Funky Chicken” Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass

Exploring New Zealand with the Funky Chicken Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass

If you’re dreaming of seeing the best of New Zealand’s North and South Islands without the hassle of fixed itineraries or tight schedules, the Funky Chicken bus pass might be just what you need. For $911 per person, this 21-day flexible journey offers unlimited travel within a year, letting you hop on and off as your interests dictate. Led by legendary local guides, the experience is rated 4.5 stars, reflecting its broad appeal and solid value.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, we love the freedom to start and end anywhere—no rigid start point or finish line, just pure flexibility. Second, the stops are thoughtfully curated, blending iconic sights like Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, and Huka Falls with immersive cultural experiences like visiting the Mitai Mori Village. A couple of things to consider: the price might seem steep upfront, but when you factor in the included ferry tickets and the flexible travel style, it offers good value for travelers wanting to explore at their own pace.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to customize their journey, those keen on nature, geothermal wonders, or the Lord of the Rings filming locations. If you prefer a guided, structured tour with fixed dates, this might not be ideal. But if you love spontaneity and authentic experiences, the Funky Chicken pass offers a fantastic way to get a comprehensive taste of New Zealand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexibility: Start and finish your trip anywhere, hop on and off at your convenience.
• Highlights: Cover top spots like Cathedral Cove, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, and Huka Falls.
• Cultural & Natural Sights: Enjoy Maori cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.
• Transport: Stress-free travel with legendary local guides on a well-maintained bus fleet.
• Cost & Value: $911 includes ferry tickets and 21 days of travel, offering solid value for flexible explorers.
• Optional Activities: You can choose to add on activities, making your trip personalized.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Flexibility and Freedom of the Pass

The Funky Chicken bus pass stands out for its flexibility. Unlike traditional bus tours that lock you into a fixed itinerary, this pass allows you to start and end your journey anywhere on the North or South Islands. With unlimited travel within 12 months, you can take your time, revisit favorite spots, or explore at a relaxed pace. This flexibility is a major plus for travelers who prefer avoiding rushed schedules or who want to linger longer in places that captivate them.

The Itinerary: A Well-Selected Selection of Sights

The tour’s route covers some of New Zealand’s most iconic and diverse destinations. We loved how the tour begins in Auckland, with the freedom to either explore the city or jump straight onto the bus heading southeast to the Coromandel Peninsula. This region offers stunning beaches and a chance to kayak to Cathedral Cove or relax at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot spring in the sand—a quintessential Kiwi experience.

Next, the journey takes you through Karangahake Gorge, where you can hike along old mining tunnels and enjoy scenic walks amid lush surroundings. From there, the Waitomo Caves reveal an otherworldly landscape filled with glowworms, stalactites, and stalagmites—something we found mesmerizing. As one reviewer put it, “The glow-worm caves are like stepping into a starry night sky underground,” which is exactly how it feels.

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, you’ll appreciate the optional visit to Hobbiton, where the movie set remains charming and authentic. The tour guides here often share stories about the filming process, adding a layer of magic to the visit.

Moving south, Rotorua is a highlight for its geothermal activity—think bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers. The Mitai Mori Village offers a culture, complete with storytelling, traditional performances, and a hangi feast. If adventure calls, options like white-water rafting or zorbing will keep adrenaline levels high.

Finally, a trip to Lake Taupō and Huka Falls showcases some of New Zealand’s most dramatic natural attractions. The lake, an extinct volcano crater, offers opportunities for sailing, skydiving, or simply soaking in the scenery.

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Real Traveler Perspectives

Participants frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Sarah, was fantastic—she kept the group entertained and shared local insights that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.” The bus fleet is described as comfortable, with enough space for luggage and plenty of windows for sightseeing.

Many travelers appreciate the value for money. For $911, you’re not just paying for transportation—you get ferry tickets, some cultural experiences, and the freedom to craft your own itinerary. As one person remarked, “For the price, you can’t beat the flexibility and the chance to see so much without the stress of fixed tours.”

However, some travelers note that the trip involves long driving days, especially when covering both islands. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter, more frequent stops, you might find the schedule a bit intensive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pass is best suited for independent spirits who enjoy making spontaneous decisions. It’s ideal for those wanting to cover a lot of ground without being tied to a rigid schedule. Perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, especially if you’re interested in geothermal wonders, Maori culture, or movie locations. It’s less suitable for families with young children or travelers seeking a fully guided experience with fixed itineraries.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

In our view, the Funky Chicken hop-on hop-off bus pass offers excellent value for those who want maximum flexibility. The ability to explore at your own pace, combined with visits to top sights and the option to add activities, makes it a compelling choice. The included ferry rides and local guides enhance the experience, giving you both adventure and insight.

While it’s not a cheap option, the versatility and scope of sights you access for the price make it worthwhile for travelers eager to craft a personalized and authentic Kiwi adventure. If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys spontaneity and off-the-beaten-path exploration, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start and finish the tour anywhere?
Yes, the pass allows you to start and end your journey at any point along the route, giving you full control over your itinerary.

Are ferry tickets included in the price?
Yes, the package includes two Cook Strait ferry tickets (for the round trip), facilitating travel between the North and South Islands without extra cost.

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll be accompanied by legendary local guides known for their friendliness and knowledge, making your trip more insightful and engaging.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 18. It’s geared more toward independent travelers and adults.

How long do I have to complete the trip?
The pass is valid for up to 12 months, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

What should I budget for activities not included?
Optional activities like white-water rafting, skydiving, or visiting Maori cultural sites are not included. Budget accordingly based on your interests, as these add on to the base price.

To sum it up, the Funky Chicken hop-on hop-off bus pass provides an authentic, flexible way to experience the highlights of New Zealand’s North and South Islands. It’s perfect for adventurers who cherish freedom, eager to discover stunning landscapes, geothermal marvels, and movie magic on their own terms. With its reasonable price, engaging guides, and curated stops, it offers a genuine Kiwi adventure that’s as personalized as it is memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: