New Zealand / Covid 19

Concern for tourism as third of bus and coach businesses closed during pandemic

08:03 am on 7 February 2022

The Bus and Coach Association is concerned there won't be enough operators to transport tourists around when borders start to open.

Photo: 123rf.com

Association chief executive Ben McFadgen says about a third of the industry had closed because of the pandemic.

Another third of businesses were signalling they might close in coming months, he said.

The association was pushing for government support to keep the industry on its feet.

McFadgen said they had also pushed to be included in any support going to the tourism sector, but weren't included.

The impact would be noticeable if demand for services increases as the borders started to open, he said.

It was fine to fund tourism, but people need a way to get around, he said.

McFadgen said operators had tried to pivot their businesses, but ended up running their reserves dry.