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Kiwi Experience has launched Classic Tours, a new product designed for the next generation of youth travellers seeking flexible, time-efficient adventure in Aotearoa.
The new offering reimagines the green bus experience for Gen Z, combining transport and accommodation with the freedom to add activities using the Kiwi Experience Trip Planner. The all-in pricing model gives travellers a clear upfront cost, while still allowing personalised itineraries.
Kiwi Experience general manager Lucy Haslam says the new tours reflect shifting travel patterns.
“After more than three decades on the road, we know youth travel better than anyone. We’ve listened to our guests, seen how much it’s changing, and adapted to their evolving travel style,” Lucy says.
“A decade ago, young travellers often arrived with working-holiday visas and stayed for months, sometimes years. But the landscape has evolved. With fewer working-holiday visas available and rising travel costs, they’re spending less time here, but they’re making every moment count. They want travel that’s authentic, social and shareable, yet still organised, transparent and great value. Classic Tours delivers exactly that — freedom with a plan and a set cost.”
Classic Tours marks Kiwi Experience’s first major new product release since before COVID-19. With more than 100 departure dates each year, the tours support first-time solo travellers, budget-conscious planners and those short on time.
Lucy says travellers increasingly want certainty without losing spontaneity.
“This generation still wants adventure, but they also want to know what’s included, what it costs and that it’s all organised. That means they can spend their spare money on the experiences that matter most to them.
“We like to think of it as the ‘Would-you-like-fries-with-that?’ of adventure travel. Everything’s sorted upfront, but you can add as much as you like to make it your own.”
She says the shift from long stays to shorter, experience-focused trips is driving demand for more inclusive, low-admin options with clear value.
“With more buses on the road and a nationwide circuit, Kiwi Experience offers frequency, flexibility and accessibility unmatched in the youth-travel market.”
Lucy says the expanded circuit strengthens access to key locations across the country.
“We’re running multiple departures every week, giving travellers greater choice and access to every corner of the country, from Paihia, Rotorua and Waitomo to Westport, Tekapo and the iconic Mahinapua Pub. No one else in the youth-travel market can match our scale, network, value or experience.”
Bookings for Classic Tours and other Kiwi Experience travel options are available at kiwiexperience.com
