Travel with ease in Southland’s wilds thanks to Catch-a-Bus South’s VIP Transfers. Personalized private rides make journeys between trailheads, towns, and backcountry stops effortless and timely.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Varies by transfer route
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required
Wildlife
History
Makarewa and the surrounding Southland region were long inhabited by Māori iwi before European settlement introduced farming and transport routes.
Conservation
Catch-a-Bus South supports sustainable transport practices by minimizing unnecessary trips and encouraging shared transfers where feasible.
Catch-a-Bus South
Travel with ease in Southland’s wilds thanks to Catch-a-Bus South’s VIP Transfers. Personalized private rides make journeys between trailheads, towns, and backcountry stops effortless and timely.
Catch-a-Bus South is a regional transport and tour operator serving Southland, Otago and the Queenstown-Lakes district. The business specialises in tailored charter services for groups of up to 11 passengers and offers scheduled and door-to-door transfers linking Bluff, Invercargill, Te Anau, Queenstown and Dunedin.
Catch-a-Bus South operates a range of trip types: private charters, VIP transfers, short scenic connections (such as Bluff–Invercargill and Invercargill–Bluff), and longer regional transfers between Invercargill, Te Anau and Queenstown. The operator also runs guided day tours including the Bluff Half Day Tour, The Catlins Day Tour and the Southern Catlins Shore Excursion, and provides specialised cycle transport for Milford Sound departures.
Service details and constraints are stated clearly: some services exclude certain local stops (for example, Queenstown transfers do not serve Arrowtown or Arthurs Point and require flights to arrive by 1pm), and some routes have specific bike policies (Dunedin to Invercargill bus-stop-to-bus-stop service is not available for bikes). Catch-a-Bus South is featured on The Adventure Collective and presents clear pick-up options, mid-trip stops and charter flexibility that suit travellers heading to Stewart Island, Fiordland walks and regional attractions.
All service descriptions, destination links and booking instructions are provided up front to help passengers plan seamless regional journeys.
Charter Capacity
Up to 11
Small-group charters for personalised travel
Service Area
Southland, Otago, Queenstown-Lakes
Regional coverage across South New Zealand
Featured Tour
Bluff Half Day
Customisable, award-winning tour option
Scheduled Notes
Specific constraints
Flight & bike rules listed per route
Reserve a charter, VIP transfer or day tour now — flexible pick-ups, clear policies, and routes across Southland, Otago and Queenstown-Lakes.
Confirm Pickup Locations in Advance
Southland has many unmarked rural roads, so verify exact pickup spots with your driver ahead of time to avoid delays.
Pack Light for Easy Boarding
While vehicles are spacious, keeping your gear organized and compact helps speed the loading process for multi-stop trips.
Communicate Special Requests
Whether you need extra stops or specific timing, calling ahead allows Catch-a-Bus South to tailor your transfer service effectively.
Plan for Weather Variability
Southland weather can change quickly; even your transfer driver appreciates travelers prepared for rain or sun during pickups.
Weather-Appropriate Outerwear
Stay comfortable for pickup and drop-off regardless of weather.
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Compact Daypack
Keep essentials handy during stops or quick outdoor breaks.
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Phone with Charged Battery
Maintain communication with your driver for timing updates.
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Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your trips between destinations.
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