Environment Canterbury says buses across its network, which includes Christchurch, Waimakariri, Selwyn and Timaru, will all be free of charge to support World Car-Free Day.
ECan senior manager public transport Stewart Gibbon said it was a good opportunity for people to leave the car at home and explore the central city.
He said many central city food outlets have also hopped on board, providing special discounts available over this weekend only.
They include Muffin Break at the Bus Interchange, Piki Poke at The Crossing, Hachi Hachi, Two Fat Indians and several others.
"We know that emissions from transport are a big contributor to our carbon footprint, and that we can lower emissions quickly and significantly if more people choose to take public transport more often.
"Replacing a car journey with public transport is a simple way that people can contribute to reducing their emissions footprint. We encourage as many people as possible to give it a go by taking advantage of a free trip this weekend.”
World Car-Free Day falls on a Sunday this year, therefore buses will be free on both 21 and 22 September, to encourage and enable as many people as possible to leave their car at home and give public transport a go.
