By Kate S. This information to touring alone in New Zealand comprises affiliate hyperlinks to trusted companions!
Concerned with solo journey in New Zealand, however need assistance with the planning?
Then you definately’re in the appropriate place!
New Zealand is named a land of hobbits, sheep, snow-capped mountains, and turquoise lakes. Whereas it won’t have the identical backpacker-friendly popularity as Southeast Asia or Europe, New Zealand’s small dimension and pleasant laid-back surroundings make it a straightforward and approachable vacation spot for solo vacationers.
Whether or not you need to hike Mount Tongariro, hit the slopes at Cardrona, or soak in a Rotorua scorching spring, there’s a lot to do right here for every type of solo vacationers, however particularly the adventurous — that is the house of the bungy leap in spite of everything!
With a lot to do and see, how does somebody touring on their very own get probably the most out of solo journey in New Zealand?
All you want is a willingness to discover and expertise new issues and a sure degree of belief, in your self and others. Additionally important are glorious organizational abilities.
Touring solo in New Zealand is a good way to fulfill new individuals, perhaps even make lifelong mates, and undoubtedly create some unimaginable recollections.
Hold studying to learn to plan a protected, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey to New Zealand by yourself!
Fast tip: Whereas New Zealand is protected for solo journey, it’s nonetheless sensible to pack journey security necessities. One prime decide is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which is TSA-approved and may also help scare away potential attackers. Different suggestions embrace Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves.
Table of Contents
Journey Solo In New Zealand With Confidence [Free eCourse]
However first, earlier than we get into our New Zealand solo journey information, I invite you to seize a seat in Jessie’s free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course.
The 6-day course is designed that will help you really feel assured about reserving your first solo journey and exploring the world alone.
Classes embrace:
- Frequent solo journey fears and find out how to overcome them
- How to decide on your good solo journey
- The best way to inform family members you’re hitting the street solo
- Mentally getting ready in your solo journey with out shedding your thoughts
- Important steps for staying protected on a solo journey
- The best way to take superb solo selfies
When you’ve grabbed your seat, learn on to study all about solo feminine journey in New Zealand.
Is New Zealand Secure For Solo Feminine Vacationers?
General, New Zealand is a really protected and welcoming place for vacationers, together with solo vacationers. In truth, it ranks #2 on the Global Peace Index out of 163 nations!
Girls are usually handled very effectively – NZ was the primary nation on the planet to present girls the appropriate to vote – and solo vacationers are pretty widespread in main vacationer areas so that you received’t stand out.
Public transport is often very protected to make use of and crime charges are pretty low.
Within the cities, anticipate to comply with the identical primary precautions you’ll anyplace else on the planet: keep away from waking alone late at night time in abandoned areas, restrict your ingesting, and belief your intestine.
The place Is New Zealand?
New Zealand is the southernmost nation on the planet and a great distance from principally all over the place.
By way of geography, New Zealand is closest to Australia, about 3 hours by aircraft between the 2 nations’ capitals.
New Zealand consists of two essential islands, merely referred to as the North Island and South Island. Each have rather a lot to supply so attempt to match each into your solo New Zealand journey if attainable.
Getting To New Zealand
As a result of New Zealand is an island nation, the one method to get there’s by aircraft. Auckland Airport is the primary airport for the nation with probably the most flight choices; nonetheless, you may as well fly into Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown if coming from Australia.
Getting Round New Zealand As A Solo Traveler
When touring alone round New Zealand, you need to use bus companies – which supply the most cost effective choice – or lease a automotive or camper van.
New Zealand by bus
If touring New Zealand by bus, the Intercity community might be your finest guess. They go principally all over the place in New Zealand and the primary tickets for every bus are sometimes $1. In addition they have multi-trip move choices that will help you avoid wasting {dollars}.
New Zealand by automotive
Want a rental automotive? Take a look at Discover Cars to shortly evaluate your automotive rent choices. Their comparability device does the homework for you, so there’s no have to have up 10+ tabs making an attempt to determine which firm is probably the most inexpensive. Truly, it can save you as much as 70% utilizing their device!
New Zealand by tour firm
One other concept for these touring New Zealand solo is becoming a member of a tour group to have all of the transport sorted for you. I’ve used G Adventures and Contiki earlier than and charge them each extremely. It’s additionally a good way to make new mates.
Flying round New Zealand
Flights can be found between main cities however will be costly except booked far upfront. You’ll additionally miss a variety of New Zealand’s lovely surroundings in case you follow the airline routes.
New Zealand Journey Map
To assist in giving you a lay of the land, here’s a map. It has many of the details and solo actions talked about on this information to New Zealand solo feminine journey:
You can also click here for the interactive version.
Fashionable Locations For Solo Journey In New Zealand
In fact, one of the necessary elements of planning a solo journey to New Zealand is deciding the place to go. Whereas there are a lot of great locations to discover, some prime picks for these visiting NZ on their very own embrace:
Auckland
Auckland is the start line for many solo holidays in New Zealand as a result of it has the foremost airport.
It’s New Zealand’s greatest metropolis with round 1.5 million individuals, however it’s not the capital. That may be Wellington (extra on this under!).
When in Auckland, you’ll need to go to the enduring Sky Tower for the most effective views of the town and surrounding coast. In the event you get pleasure from journey journey, you may even attempt a bungee leap off the sting!
The waterfront precinct sits on the harbor in downtown Auckland, and is a good place to go for walks, do some buying, and savor a number of the finest eating within the metropolis.
Right here you’ll discover Business Bay and its upmarket meals courtroom, whereas Britomart — with its beautiful cobble-stoned plaza — has extra positive eating eating places and native designer boutiques. Ensure that to seize some ice cream from Giapo whilst you’re there!
When you have time, escape the town with a brief ferry journey throughout to Waiheke Island. The island has some fairly seashores, although it’s most well-known for its wineries — a few of which you’ll be able to stroll to from the wharf, together with Cable Bay and Mudbrick. Tastings can be found totally free or for a small cost.
For a style of day by day life in Auckland head to Mount Eden, a reasonably suburb simply south of the town heart. Right here you may take a straightforward 30-45-minute stroll up the mountain and seize espresso and cake within the village. A flat white is the favourite order of locals in New Zealand!
Auckland Motels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Auckland.
Auckland Excursions: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Auckland.
Central North Island
Once you journey New Zealand solo, the central North Island area is a should. It’s house to a number of the nation’s most well-known points of interest and is certainly a spot to spend time in your solo journey.
There are a number of stops you need to make whereas right here.
The primary is the central Waikato area, which has many popular attractions, together with:
Additional south, you’ll discover Rotorua, New Zealand’s geothermal city. That is the place to chill out with a day spent within the scorching swimming pools on the Polynesian Spa.
Rotorua can be house to a big Māori inhabitants – the Indigenous Polynesian individuals of mainland New Zealand (Aotearoa) – and there are excursions accessible the place you may find out about their historical past and tradition and take a look at conventional hangi meals.
You can view a list of local cultural tours here.
After Rotorua, maintain going south till you attain Tongariro Nationwide Park. That is the place you are able to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a day trek that’s thought-about top-of-the-line hikes in New Zealand.
If you’d like a mountaineering choice that’s protected and doable for solo vacationers, then that is it. It’s round eight hours, with some critical elevation — although it’s manageable for many health ranges. To make issues simple, you may guide a shuttle out of your lodging to the trailhead.
In fact, simply ensure that to maintain a number of necessary solo mountaineering suggestions in thoughts, like staying on designated trails and familiarizing your self with potential hazards and threats, like sure wildlife, alongside the way in which.
Click here for full details on Tongariro Crossing and a trail map.
Rotorua Motels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Rotorua.
Rotorua Excursions: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Rotorua.
Wellington
Solo holidays to New Zealand aren’t full with no cease in Wellington.
Because the nation’s capital, Wellington is a must-see on any New Zealand solo traveler’s itinerary. I lived within the metropolis for six years and might’t converse extremely sufficient of it, particularly its foodie tradition.
Relying while you’re visiting, you might be able to attend a number of Wellington On A Plate Festival occasions hosted at cafes, bars, and eating places round city. Prior to now the competition has taken place in August, although lately it was hosted in Might, so be part of their mailing listing to remain within the loop.
Wellingtonians take a variety of delight of their espresso, and the easiest way to attempt it’s with a tasting flight of black or white coffees at Flight Coffee. Observe that up with a tour of the bean-to-bar chocolate making course of at Wellington Chocolate Factory on close by Leeds Avenue.
Of the numerous things to do in Wellington, the highest of the listing is a visit to Te Papa, the nationwide museum. Te Papa is free — making it nice for solo vacationers on a finances — and has tons of displays on New Zealand’s historical past and artwork.
Ensure that to go to Wētā Workshop within the Wellington suburb of Miramar. That is the place they make the particular impact magic behind motion pictures like Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and Stranger Issues. The tour right here is fascinating, even in case you aren’t a fan of the actual motion pictures.
Whilst you’re on the town, spend a while exploring the laneways and the numerous hidden cafes and bars. I like Hanging Ditch in Hannah’s Laneway for cocktails, whereas People’s Coffee in Luke’s Lane is ideal for digital nomads. You actually by no means know what you’ll discover in Wellington!
Wellington Motels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Wellington.
Wellington Excursions: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Wellington.
Nelson-Tasman
In the event you’re on the lookout for some seashore time in your solo vacation to New Zealand then the Nelson-Tasman area is the place to come back.
You might say it’s a bit just like the Florida of New Zealand in that the climate is usually sunny, there are miles of shoreline, and plenty of retirees.
Whilst you ought to base your self in Nelson, will probably be rather a lot simpler in case you have a automotive for this a part of your journey because the points of interest within the space are a bit unfold out. Whereas it’s attainable to get to most locations with native buses and water taxis, will probably be tough.
The seashores at Golden Bay and Kaiteriteri are a number of the most well-known and exquisite in New Zealand — with golden sand and clear blue water that’s good for swimming and snorkeling. Fortuitously, these seashores are usually much less crowded than the extra simply accessible seashores in Coromandel on the North Island.
One other nice method to discover the world is by kayak. The most effective kayaking within the space is in Abel Tasman National Park, the place you may see the well-known Cut up Apple Rock and colonies of seals sunbathing alongside the shore.
Foodies will love the Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, a group of wineries, distilleries, historic pubs, and artisan meals producers you can go to by bike (hirable in Nelson), automotive, or on an organized tour.
Nelson Motels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Nelson.
Nelson Excursions: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Nelson.
Queenstown
Queenstown actually is the most effective of New Zealand.
As a New Zealander myself, it’s the place I like to recommend all vacationers go to for an incredible time. It combines phenomenal surroundings with a great deal of enjoyable journey actions — together with a number of the finest South Island New Zealand hikes — and unimaginable meals and wine.
Queenstown has the world’s first bungee leap, out at Kawerau Bridge Bungy, plus one thing referred to as the sky swing to maintain adrenaline-seekers entertained.
For one thing barely much less fear-inspiring, there are jet boat rides by the canyons on the Shotover River in addition to gondola rides up Ben Lomond Mountain. Afterwards, you may choose to luge or parasail down the mountain.
In any other case, you may hang around by the lakeside, taking within the spectacular sunsets over The Remarkables Ranges whereas having fun with some traditional kiwi fish and chips.
A brief journey out of city takes you into the Gibbston Valley, the place the world-renowned Central Otago pinot noirs are made and the place you may see the historic gold mining city of Arrowtown.
Queenstown Motels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Queenstown.
Queenstown Excursions: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Queenstown.
Ideas For Taking A Solo Journey To New Zealand
Alright, so now hopefully you’re beginning to get an concept of the place you may need to go whereas touring solo in New Zealand; nonetheless, there are nonetheless some necessary suggestions you need to consider:
Pack gentle for New Zealand
Your solo travels round New Zealand might be rather a lot simpler in case you can maintain your baggage as small and lightweight as attainable, ideally in a backpack.
Public transport isn’t at all times simply accessible, so you will have to stroll affordable distances from the bus stations to your lodging or simply between points of interest. Due to this, it’s best in case you aren’t lugging heavy baggage.
Moreover, New Zealanders are very informal, so you may get by all over the place with simply denims/shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers.
Possible, you’ll want to dedicate a portion of that valuable baggage area to some chilly and moist climate gear — particularly in case you’re planning on doing any New Zealand hikes. Correct mountaineering apparel is a should, because the climate in New Zealand can change shortly.
If it’s good to purchase any necessities on the go, department shops like The Warehouse and Kmart have all the things you can want at inexpensive costs.
Count on jet lag
Until you’re coming from Australia, chances are high you’ll must cross many time zones to get to New Zealand — which implies that jet lag is inevitable.
The journey is hardest coming from the Americas as you’ll must cross the worldwide date line and lose two days within the course of, which is certain to mess up anybody’s physique clock.
You’ll be able to plan for this by choosing a flight that is available in at night time so you may go straight to your (pre-booked) lodging and to sleep, hopefully waking up totally adjusted the following morning and able to discover.
Due to the jet lag, you’ll need to enable your self time to take it simple for the primary few days, relatively than leaping proper right into a jam-packed itinerary.
Discover low cost motels
If hostels aren’t you’re factor, it’s attainable to get low cost offers at New Zealand motels, however you’ll need to guide effectively upfront and keep away from vacation weekends. Booking.com usually has the most effective vary of choices.
Vacationers from Europe and America will discover that New Zealand doesn’t have a variety of the chain motels you may be used to, particularly exterior Auckland. So, in case you’re into factors and lodge loyalty applications you then received’t have a lot luck.
Nonetheless, some widespread chains that usually have affordable costs embrace Ibis and Breakfree.
As a solo traveler in New Zealand, you’ll be safer in motels and hostels in comparison with motels — which can look cheaper, however can typically be in unsavory areas and might not be staffed in a single day.
Contemplate a working vacation
New Zealand has a protracted historical past of vacationers on prolonged stays working to pay for his or her board and actions. That is commonest in Queenstown in the course of the ski season and summer season holidays, however will be finished in nearly any city.
Usually, working holidaymakers will discover jobs in hospitality (skilled baristas and bartenders are at all times in demand), at vacationer points of interest, or in retail shops. Within the larger cities, these companies generally rent “summer season casuals” — as in, workers on fixed-term contracts with variable hours — between November and February.
In the event you’re fascinated by doing a working vacation, you’ll have to verify particular visa necessities. The simplest method to discover a job is to drop off CVs round city when you arrive.
Be Cautious With Transport
Whereas public transport in New Zealand is often protected and simple to make use of, the transportation facilities and bus depots usually are not the sorts of locations solo vacationers will need to hand around in, particularly at night time.
To keep away from this, attempt to purchase your tickets on-line upfront and don’t present up sooner than needed. In the event you do have a variety of time earlier than your bus, attempt to wait in a close-by cafe relatively than on the station itself.
What Does Solo Journey To New Zealand Value?
Sadly, New Zealand just isn’t a brilliant low cost place to go to; nonetheless, in case you’re coming from North America, Europe, or the UK you then’ll discover that the foreign money distinction helps mitigate the prices.
Some indicative prices (in New Zealand {Dollars}) are:
- Lodging: $30-80 per night time for a hostel mattress or $150+ for a lodge
- Meals: $100-150 per individual for per week’s price of groceries, $15 per meal for quick meals or $25+ for a café or restaurant meal
- Transport: $10 per day to bus round cities, $20-80 for Intercity buses, $40-200 for one-way home flights
There isn’t a tipping in New Zealand and taxes are already included within the costs so no matter you see on the menu or tag is all you must pay.
Finest New Zealand Excursions For Solo Vacationers
Favor to hitch a guided tour in your solo journey in New Zealand? The next group excursions are extremely rated and might make it simpler to fulfill different individuals — which may make touring New Zealand alone much more fulfilling:
Click here for a full list of tours in New Zealand.
Do You Need Travel Insurance For New Zealand?
When visiting New Zealand solo — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.
One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.
Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.
Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.
Often Requested Questions About Solo Journey In New Zealand
Q) Is New Zealand good for solo journey?
New Zealand is the right place for solo journey! It’s protected and welcoming, and as a small nation it’s simple to get round and see rather a lot in a number of weeks.
Q) Is New Zealand protected to journey alone?
New Zealand is a really protected nation for touring alone in. Simply ensure that to take further precautions like carrying further gear when mountaineering and letting somebody know your plans when going into the mountains or bush.
Q) Is it simple to get round New Zealand with no automotive?
It’s not tremendous simple to get round with no automotive, however it’s doable in case you are prepared to be versatile with journey occasions and endure long-distance buses. There are only a few intercity trains in New Zealand and home flights are sometimes costly.
Q) What’s the finest month to go to New Zealand?
February and November are the most effective months to go to New Zealand. That is when the climate is heat, however you received’t must cope with the massive crowds and inflated costs that at all times occur in December and January when New Zealanders usually take summer season holidays.
Q) Are you able to drink the faucet water in New Zealand?
Sure, the faucet water all over the place in New Zealand is protected to drink.
Ultimate Ideas On Touring To New Zealand Alone
In the event you’re trying to get pleasure from a solo journey NZ expertise, get excited: from outside adventures to volcanic landscapes to scrumptious meals and wine, you’re in for a deal with.
There are such a lot of unimaginable locations to journey solo in New Zealand, every providing its personal distinctive points of interest and actions.
Not solely are there many enjoyable issues to do in New Zealand, however it’s protected and welcoming, making it simpler for vacationers to really feel assured exploring on their very own.
In brief, in case you’re feeling a pull to guide a solo journey to New Zealand, go for it. You received’t remorse it!
What suggestions would you add to this information on solo journey in New Zealand?
Loved this information to planning a solo New Zealand journey? Pin it for later!
About The Writer
Kate grew up in New Zealand and now lives in Sydney, Australia. She loves all issues journey and has visited 30 nations and counting! When Kate’s not touring or planning one other journey, she will be came upon operating alongside the coast or trying to find the following hidden gem cafe. You’ll be able to learn her journey guides at KateAbroad.com.