GrabaSeat

I have to travel to Wellington for a couple of meetings later this week.

Driving from Tauranga to Wellington via the Desert Road takes approximately 6.5 hours. A flight takes just over 1 hour. It is obvious which is the preferred method of transport. Air New Zealand however provide the only service on this route and this is reflected in their pricing structure. It hurts.

Recently they launched Grabaseat, an online booking service offering what they call, 'ludicrously low fares up for grabs'. Compared to their usual prices, they are not wrong.

This morning I was facing up to a long car journey on Thursday. Then 'hey-presto'. Flights at $49 dollars on Tauranga - Wellington return were offered on Grabaseat. I booked there and then. At this price, the flight is a lot cheaper than the petrol.

I have just re-checked seat availability and the Grabaseat offer is full. A more usual price of $195 each way is now being advertised. Normal service has been restored.