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The Complete Guide to Solo Female Travel in New Zealand

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When scrolling through social media, travel blogs or anything to do with travel, chances are you will come across the words: “solo female travel”. This is the buzz phrase of the backpacking community. Travel blogs and social media accounts thrive off this theme, with the idea that solo female travel is a scary thing yet a heroic accomplishment.

With girls facing different dangers to what guys face in some countries, there has clearly been a stigma against women travelling alone for their own safety. But what about travelling alone in New Zealand ? This guide to solo female travel in New Zealand is split into two parts; about the safety of solo female travel in New Zealand and some female-specific travel tips for New Zealand. Let’s begin!

Why New Zealand is the Perfect Place for Your First Solo Trip

New Zealand is the perfect place to travel alone, especially for your first big trip alone.

• New Zealand is safe – Just check out our New Zealand Safety Guide
• It’s easy to meet other backpackers , so you don’t have to be alone – here are some tips on How to Make Travelling Alone in New Zealand a Non-Solo Experience
• New Zealand has awesome backpacker hostels
• Travel with other people on the bus networks or on your own road trip
• It’s easy to find work to sustain yourself  if you’re on a Working Holiday Visa
• There’s so much to see in one small country!

And if you need more reasons, check out 10 Reasons to Travel Alone in New Zealand .

Part 1: Should You Travel New Zealand as a Solo Female Traveller?

Is solo female travel common in new zealand.

Thinking of travelling in New Zealand alone? You are not the only one. Both males and females venture off to New Zealand alone. No matter what country you are from, what your age is, whether you’re male or female, if you are seen by yourself or known to be “travelling alone”, people will not look twice. You’re not anything special! Except in your own little way.

In fact, travelling alone has become more of a trend in recent years. For example, Booking.com found that 72% of American women travelled on their own in 2018 (before the pandemic). More than half (55%) of Google searches for “solo travel” come from women, and most of these are millennials. Even from a New Zealander’s perspective, travelling alone is the way to travel as a recent survey from Skyscanner New Zealan d found that 71% of Kiwis have travelled solo overseas. In short, travelling as a solo female traveller in New Zealand is nothing out of the ordinary here.

Is New Zealand Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

The unnecessary fear of girls travelling alone has been heightened by high-profile violent stories in the media of women who have been alone away from home, such as Sarai Sierra who was murdered while travelling in Turkey in 2013. There are also incidents in conservative countries where women who are alone stereotypically means they are promiscuous, which can lead to sexual assault.

New Zealand follows a Western culture where being a single woman is a pretty common thing. People travelling from different countries to New Zealand tend to understand this also. In fact, New Zealand is one of the most liberal countries in the world by being the first to allow women to vote in government elections and has held three women in powerful government positions simultaneously.

That said, it doesn’t mean you can throw caution to the wind and act all naively! Drunkenly letting a group of dodgy strangers know where you’re staying or taking the creepy dark alley route back home at night can be risky anywhere in the world. Clearly, this is not an issue of just “females travelling alone” but for anyone of any gender or non-gender. Regardless, New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world to travel in so it is extremely rare to hear of backpackers being attacked.

9 Safety Tips for Women Travelling Solo in New Zealand

• Choose Safe Accommodations : The best way to get no trouble is to put yourself in a “no-trouble” situation. Opt for well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighbourhoods. Look for hostels or hotels with good security measures, like 24-hour front desks, and female-only dorms if that makes you feel more comfortable.
• Stay Connected : Get a local SIM card or a portable WiFi device to ensure you always have access to communication and GPS. This can be crucial for emergencies and staying in touch with loved ones. As a side note, know the emergency numbers in New Zealand (dial 111 for police, fire, or medical emergencies). Save it in your phone and/or write it down.
• Inform Someone About Your Itinerary : Speaking of staying connected, share your travel plans with a trusted friend or family member. Let them know where you’ll be staying, your itinerary, and when they can expect to hear from you.
• Trust Your Instincts : You are usually your own best asset, so if a situation or person doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from it. New Zealand is generally safe, but it’s essential to be cautious wherever you are.
• Dress Appropriately : Although there are no real cultural reasons to dress one way or another, the biggest concern for “dressing appropriately” is New Zealand’s changeable weather. This can be a safety concern in itself, so check out  Outdoor Safety When Hiking in New Zealand for more tips on the subject.
• Blend in : If you want to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, don’t “underdress”. This can help you avoid unwanted attention and is one of the easiest ways to stay safe while travelling.
• Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed : Keep yourself nourished and hydrated, especially when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities. Carry snacks and water with you, as access to food and water can be limited in some areas. It’s too easy to get bad eating habits on the go despite how important it is to keep a healthy diet while travelling, don’t fall into that trap.
• Join Group Tours : If you’re concerned about safety but do not have a travel buddy, consider joining organised group tours for some activities or parts of your trip. It’s a great way to meet fellow travellers and have a sense of security. A “solo” trip does not mean you have to stay alone at all times. It is just a great excuse to meet people from new horizons and make new and unexpected friends.
• Secure Your Belongings : Use lockable luggage and keep your belongings secure to minimise the risk of theft as women tend to be more targeted than men when it comes to theft, not that it is a big issue in New Zealand at all…

Remember, New Zealand is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and solo female travellers often have positive experiences. However, it’s always important to prioritise safety and be prepared for any situation that may arise during your journey.

Why You SHOULD Travel Solo in New Zealand as a Woman

Travelling solo in New Zealand, or any destination, can be a great experience for women for several reasons. The psychology behind it and the mental benefits associated with solo travel can be profound. Now breaking the proverbial 4th wall of this travel guide, let me share my 10 takeaways from my first-ever solo trip to New Zealand:

• Empowerment and Independence : Solo travel allows women to challenge themselves, step out of their comfort zones, and become more self-reliant. This empowerment can boost self-confidence and a sense of independence.
• Self-Discovery : Travelling alone provides an opportunity for self-discovery. It allows women to learn more about themselves, their strengths, and their capabilities. This can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one’s own desires and ambitions.
• Increased Self-Esteem : Overcoming challenges during solo travel, such as navigating a new culture or trying adventurous activities, can lead to a significant increase in self-esteem. Achieving goals independently can be a powerful confidence booster.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills : Women who travel solo often develop strong problem-solving skills. They learn to adapt to unexpected situations, make decisions, and manage their resources effectively, all of which can translate into everyday life.
• Cultural Sensitivity and Open-Mindedness : Solo travel exposes women to different cultures and perspectives. This experience fosters cultural sensitivity, open-mindedness, and a broader worldview. It can also reduce biases and stereotypes.
• Reduced Stress and Anxiety : While travel can be stressful, solo travellers often report reduced stress and anxiety during their journeys. The freedom to make their own choices and the lack of compromise can lead to a more relaxed and fulfilling experience.
• Stronger Resilience : Facing challenges and uncertainties during solo travel helps build resilience. Women learn to adapt to new environments, cope with setbacks, and bounce back from disappointments.
• Sense of Accomplishment : Successfully navigating a foreign country on one’s own can instil a profound sense of accomplishment. This feeling of achievement can boost overall life satisfaction.
• Freedom and Self-Care : Traveling alone allows women to focus on self-care and personal interests without the demands of others. It provides an opportunity to recharge and do what brings joy and relaxation.
• Positive Impact on Mental Health : Many women find that solo travel has a positive impact on their mental health. It can be a break from daily routines and stressors, leading to reduced anxiety and increased happiness.

It’s important to note that the benefits of solo travel can vary from person to person, and not all women may have the same experiences as I did. While solo travel can be an incredibly enriching and empowering experience, it’s essential to prioritise safety and make informed decisions while on the journey. Ultimately, solo travel can be a transformative and life-enriching adventure, offering women the chance to explore the world and themselves in a unique way.

Solo Female Travel: Is it Really the Biggest Achievement of Travelling?

The achievement of travelling alone in New Zealand is certainly not defined by gender. The achievement comes from leaving everything you know to explore unfamiliar territory something a lot of us find hard to do. But once accomplished and once in New Zealand having the time of your life, you realise how incredibly easy it was.

Part 2: Solo Female Travel Guide to New Zealand

Girls’ packing list for new zealand, backpack or suitcase.

First things first, you need to be able to carry what you pack. In New Zealand, it’s not essential to carry a backpack as opposed to a wheeled suitcase. However, for those who want to go on multi-day hikes or travel and stay in places outside of cities where the tar-sealed ground is lacking, using a backpack is the way to go. We go through a full list of pros and cons in Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which Should You Take to New Zealand ?

If you opt for a backpack, make sure it’s not too big. Anything over 70 L is too much. Somewhere between 50 and 60 L is enough to fit the essentials and be able to carry it. See what to look for when choosing a backpack in How to Choose a Good Backpac k .

What Clothes to Pack for New Zealand

Remember, pack what you can comfortably carry. Pack according to different situations you are likely to be in: outdoor clothes, casual clothing, clothing suitable for work/job interviews (if you’re on a Working Holiday Visa), swimwear, clothes for sleeping in and maybe something a little more “flash” for nights out. On the subject of nights out, New Zealand bars and clubs are very casual – there is no need to pack heels as they take up too much room, and many backpackers tend to just wear tidy casual clothing rather than dresses.

For some of us, we can get six months into our trip and be sick of wearing the same clothes. So do other backpackers. Therefore, there will be opportunities to swap clothes with friends and get rid of unwanted items in the “Free” box in a hostel. What’s more, second-hand shops, otherwise known as op-shops, are plentiful with huge selections so you donate your old clothes and buy new clothes for just a few bucks.

For a full packing list, take a look at What Clothes to Pack to Travel in New Zealand .

Health and Beauty

What cosmetics to pack for new zealand.

This is personal to everyone but there are a few things that girls travelling in New Zealand may want to think about.

Birth Control

Before coming to New Zealand, it is worth having a check-up with your doctor to not only make sure that you are not likely to have any nasty surprises while travelling but also to discuss your birth control options. The contraceptive pill is a popular option, but bear in mind that by crossing such dramatic time zones, you will be taking your pill at a different time of day in New Zealand. Plus, with such a change of lifestyle, remembering to take your pill at the correct time can be tough, so you may want to look into other contraceptive methods such as the implant. However, the implant and contraceptive pills do not protect you from STIs, so using a condom is essential. You don’t want to come home from New Zealand with a gruesome souvenir…

If you decide that you want to start using the contraceptive pill in New Zealand, or you need more of the medication, then you can visit a New Zealand doctor to write you a prescription. There will be a few costs involved but they are affordable. Be sure to check out How to Get a Medical Prescription in New Zealand .

Bringing Medication into New Zealand

If you have any prescribed medications from home, it is a good idea to stock up on these and bring them to New Zealand. You can bring up to three months’ worth of prescribed medication through Biosecurity in New Zealand; any more and you will need a note from your doctor. More information is in Arrival Advice: Biosecurity and Customs in New Zealand . If you find that you need to get more prescribed medication while you are in New Zealand, just follow our advice in How to Get a Medical Prescription in New Zealand .

Feminine Products

New Zealand supermarkets, pharmacies, corner stores and even some hostels have sanitary towels, liners and tampons for sale, so there is no need to pack too many feminine products. To save money and space and be more environmentally friendly while you travel, why not consider using a menstrual cup? It takes a couple of cycles to get used to but it will change your life! Otherwise, discuss with your doctor about taking the contraceptive pill continuously to avoid having periods altogether!

Beauty Products and Cosmetics

What beauty products and cosmetics you use is entirely up to you, but we recommend keeping them to a minimum. Of course, hygiene is important to your health, so you will want to pack soap and shampoo. A small bottle of hand sanitiser is useful if you plan on doing multi-day hikes, as are insect repellent and sunscreen for any time you spend outdoors in New Zealand. Did you know it only takes about seven minutes for the sun to burn you in New Zealand? Remember, all these essential cosmetics can be bought in New Zealand stores.

As for items like hairdryers, most accommodations have hairdryers in their bathrooms or at least you can borrow one from reception. Some may even have hair straighteners.

First Aid Kit

We recommend packing a small first aid kit for yourself. You don’t need to go too crazy, but band-aids, antiseptic cream, paracetamol and ibuprofen are a good place to start. We have some suggestions in Health Tips For Travelling in New Zealand .

Travel Insurance for New Zealand

Finally, although travel insurance might seem like a waste of money, if you really want peace of mind when travelling so far away from home, then we suggest choosing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses. Find out more about affordable medical insurance in How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance for New Zealand .

Where to Stay as a Female Traveller

Where you stay as a female traveller is a personal choice. To stick to a limited budget, most female backpackers stay in hostels.

New Zealand is a backpacking and holidaying destination for people from all over the world from many different cultures. With that in mind, it’s easy to find backpacker hostels with female-only dorm rooms. In almost all hostels in New Zealand, there are separate male and female toilet and shower facilities.

Although female-only dorms are for the comfort of female travellers, they are in no way a necessity, as most people stay in mixed dorms. With the usual range of 4 to 12 beds, mixed dorms are considered safe for all guests at cheap rates.

Learn more about staying in a hostel in  What is a Hostel? A Beginner’s Guide to Backpacker Hostels in New Zealand .

If hostels aren’t for you, then there are many great options for accommodation in New Zealand while sticking to a budget. Check out 10 Damn Good Alternatives to Hostels .

Travelling Alone Doesn’t Mean You Have to Be Alone

Ok, so you started the journey to New Zealand by yourself, but that’s where being alone can end if you want it to. As discussed above, there are many solo travellers in New Zealand who are open to making new friends. While some backpackers take a trip together for just a day, others will know each other for life! You can make so many different friendships here.

Staying in Hostels and Joining Group Tours

Meeting new people while travelling or on a working holiday in New Zealand is especially easy in backpacker hostels, as you are with like-minded people. There are also tourism companies, like working holiday travel programs and the hop-on hop-off buses where you are certain to meet other solo travellers too. Find out more ways to meet people in the 10 Ways to Meet People When Travelling Alone in New Zealand .

Meeting People on a Working Holiday

With the Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand, you are entitled to work and travel. This means making some workmates along the way! Honestly, these are just some of the situations where you meet people. You’re even likely to make friends in the unlikeliest of places. That’s the beauty of travelling.

Travel on an Adventure Tour

Choosing the right way to get around the country is the easiest way to make friends on the road. While renting/buying a car or campervan is a popular option, this is a pretty lonely experience unless you put yourself out there to find some travel buddies. Plus, the national coach buses are more about getting a mix of locals and budget travellers from A to B rather than providing a social experience…

Alternatively, there are backpacker adventure tours. Hop on a tour with a bunch of like-minded travellers and you’ll instantly make friends! Adventure tours like Backyard Roadies put on trips for 18-40+-year-olds so that they can experience the awesome scenery and epic activities together. Many of the passengers will be solo travellers too. What’s more, you won’t have the stresses of organising a whole travel itinerary on your own, with a guide who will support you all the way.

With small groups and a mix of male and female guides, Backyard Roadies offers fun, safe and great-value tours for all. Learn more about their tours and become part of the Backyard Roadies family over at backyardroadies.com .

More About Solo Female Travel in New Zealand

That’s it for our guide to solo female travel in New Zealand. For more tips, take a look at the following:

• 30 Tips for Backpacking in New Zealand
• New Zealand Safety Tips for Hazards & Dangers: Is New Zealand Safe?
• 10 Reasons to Travel Alone in New Zealand

Now that you are convinced that travelling to New Zealand alone is absolutely an awesome idea, start planning with  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to New Zealand 

09/29/2023 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This guest post is by Heather Marston.

New Zealand is situated across two islands, each offering different landscapes and experiences. The North Island is green and lush, rich in culture, and home to Auckland and Wellington, the country’s two biggest cities. In contrast, the South Island is rugged and remote, with the Southern Alps running its length, and filled with mountains, fjords, and glaciers to explore.

In my experience, New Zealand is an ideal destination for solo female travelers. Its variety of landscapes, unique natural attractions, and friendly locals will make you want to stay forever. Which is exactly what happened to me. My experiences traveling in New Zealand were so good, I decided to make it my home.

So what exactly can you expect from a solo trip to New Zealand? Read on and find out.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Safety

Safety is one of the biggest factors for solo female travelers, which is why New Zealand is a great country for those just starting out. It is currently ranked the fourth most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index . In fact, it’s common to see people hitchhiking to get around outside of the main cities.

New Zealand has the best of both worlds: vibrant cities filled with amenities, and plenty of wilderness to immerse yourself in. And except for a few remote places, such as Milford Sound , you’ll have good Wi-Fi coverage to keep in touch with friends and family.

Still, it’s important to use precautions when traveling around a new place, no matter the safety rating. As with any location, it’s a good idea to keep copies of your passport. Be aware of your surroundings, and let someone know if you are heading into the wilderness alone.

If you’re going out at night, especially to the bars, it’s best to do so with someone. And of course, don’t leave your drinks unattended. Luckily, New Zealanders (affectionately known as Kiwis) are a friendly bunch and there will be plenty of opportunities to make new friends.

READ NEXT: 41 Ways to Stay Safe While Traveling Alone as A Woman

Getting Around as a Solo Traveler

Most flights arrive at Auckland International Airport. From here you can pick up a rental car or take a bus into the city center, where many hostels and hotels are located. I prefer the Lylo hostels, located in Auckland , Christchurch , and Queenstown . They’re clean and modern and have great communal areas for meeting others. Plus, they have female-only pod rooms for around NZD$65 per night. I stayed in a six-pod female-only room, which was a great experience. I met other solo female travelers without being overwhelmed by a huge dorm room or stinky boys.

I highly recommend renting a camper van to get around the country. It offers the most flexibility for solo travel, including accommodation. With a campervan, you can go where you want and stay for however long you want, perfect for venturing off the beaten path which, trust me, you’ll want to do here. There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored! 

Two companies I really like are Spaceship Rentals and JUCY . I used Spaceship Rentals for my first solo trip around the North Island, because the vehicle I chose was small and easy to drive — ideal for my first time driving on the other side, and navigating narrow, winding roads in remote areas. Pickup locations are in Auckland and Christchurch, convenient to the main airports. 

JUCY’s vehicles are also compact and have everything you need. I tend to use them for my trips around the South Island. Plus there are pickup locations in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown. You can even grab a relocation hire for as little as NZ$1 per day. It’s a good option for the ulimtate road trip from Auckland to Queenstown. 

Both companies offer 24/7 roadside rescue for peace of mind and will hire out campervans to drivers 18 years and older, although JUCY has a surcharge if you’re under 25. Just remember to bring your valid driver’s license or International Driving Permit. 

Prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year. I used Camper Van Finder to find the best deals. You just need to fill in the fields based on your travel dates and pickup location, and it will compile a list of campervans that are available and the prices for each. 

Although New Zealand has freedom camping (parking somewhere outside of designated parking spots, or in places that are free of charge), there are rules on where you can and can’t park overnight. You’ll need to stay in areas that are designated for freedom camping, and some sites need to be booked in advance, especially during high season (from October to April). The Freedom Camping and Department of Conservation (DOC) websites are useful resources; they have a list of all the campsites around the country, including a Camping NZ App you can download. Bookings can be made on the DOC website. 

READ NEXT: The Perfect Car Camping Checklist

Holiday parks are my other go-to option with a campervan. My preferred choice is a Top 10 Holiday Park , with 47 locations around the country. I stayed at several locations and found the facilities to be consistently good.

During my travels, I mostly stayed at a mix of campsites and holiday parks outside of the cities. The holiday parks were great for meeting other travelers and of course a hot shower, while the campsites offer an off-the-beaten-path experience. 

New Zealand is divided by the Cook Straight, so you’ll need to book a ferry to cross from the North to South Island with a car. Or you can arrange two separate camper van or car rentals, one for the North Island and one for the South Island, then fly from Auckland or Wellington into Christchurch or Queenstown. (The airfares to Christchurch are generally cheaper to fly into than Queenstown.)

I opted for two separate two-week road trips on each island and flew from Auckland to Christchurch in between. If you are short on time, a point-to-point trip from Auckland to Queenstown would be the better option. You can then fly one-way back to Auckland to catch your flight home.

An alternative is to drive one way from Auckland to Wellington, fly from Wellington to Christurch, then drive from Christchurch to Queenstown. The good thing is, there are several ways to organize your trip to fit into the timeframe you have. 

Another good thing is that it’s easy to navigate around New Zealand, especially outside of the bigger cities. The main highways are easy to follow and well covered on Google Maps, and other areas are mostly country roads and more laid-back, so you can take your time navigating. Plus, the rural roads are less busy and better for getting used to driving on the left side of the road if that’s new for you.

So, if your sense of direction is lacking (like mine), New Zealand is the ideal place for a solo road trip. It’s not that big, and you won’t stay lost for long.

If renting a car isn’t in the cards, the Intercity Bus will take you to most of the main cities and towns. It’s a slower method of travel, so you may need to prioritize what you want to see.

Guided coach tours are an option if you want to access remote parts of the country, such as Mount Cook National Park, without a car. There’s a range of operators to choose from, varying in duration and covering most areas.

Solo Traveler Friendliness & How to Meet Others

New Zealand is a popular destination for solo travelers, thanks to its reputation for safety and adventure. Hostels are a great place to meet travel companions, especially in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.

Campgrounds and holiday parks are ideal for meeting others outside the main cities, especially in summer, when everyone congregates around the communal barbecue areas for a yarn (chat) and a feed. While staying at the Top 10 holiday park in Te Anau, I met a lovely couple and a family of four, and we arranged to have a barbecue together. Other people staying there started coming over, and it turned into one of the best social evenings of my whole trip. Everyone shared laughs and road trip stories well into the night.  

And given that English is one of the main languages of New Zealand (alongside te reo Māori and NZ Sign Language), it’s comforting to know that communication won’t be an issue.

If you plan on going on hikes, I recommend joining the Tramping in New Zealand Facebook page . It’s a great way not only to learn about the best trails but also to meet fellow hikers. Other travelers will often post on the page looking for hiking buddies.

(Oh, and I should also mention that “tramping” means “hiking” in New Zealand, in case you don’t already know. Had me baffled when I first arrived and someone invited me to “go on a tramp.”)

If you like photography, joining an adventure photography tour is a great way to meet like-minded people. I’ve been on a couple and had fantastic experiences. Most consist of locals and overseas visitors attending as solo travelers.

READ NEXT: 10 Iconic Views in New Zealand You Can’t Miss

In fact, I met my best travel buddy through one of these photography tours. We were paired as roommates, both being solo female travelers. Now we travel together whenever we can.

New Zealand Photography Workshops has a range of tours covering most locations. It’s run by locals who take you to all the best spots, sometimes even secret ones, like the secret waterfall we were taken to on my last trip. It’s not on the map and only identified by a small gap in the trees along the side of a road. We hiked for 30 minutes down a sketchy trail to this massive cascading waterfall. It was an exhilarating experience and a chance to see a secret spot few people have been to.

Things to Do

First Name:

A road trip around the North and South Islands is the best way to explore the dramatic scenery and top sightseeing spots. New Zealand has roughly the same surface area as the state of Colorado with a long and narrow shape. The amount of time you have will determine your exact itinerary. I recommend at least 1-2 weeks in the North Island and 2- 3 weeks in the South Island. This will give you time to explore the highlights and get off the beaten track. Being able to enjoy the journey and explore the country without feeling rushed is one of the best things about solo travel.

North Island

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and a good place to start from. But before you head off, be sure to check out some of its top attractions. The iconic Sky Tower stands over 1,000 feet, with expansive views of the city and the harbor from the top. Commercial Bay in downtown is filled with delicious eateries; try Kai Eatery for fresh Taiwanese street food and Burger Burger for the best burgers in Auckland, or Wise Boy Burgers for tasty vegan options. 

If you have time, take a day trip to Waiheke Island for a tour of its top wineries. Mudbrick and Cable Bay are two I really enjoyed. One is more rustic and the other contemporary, but both have a range of top varieties to try.

You can catch a ferry from downtown Auckland and travel around the island by car or bus, but I recommend splurging on a tour for this one. I did the Ecozip and vineyard tour and had so much fun. I enjoyed the company, especially at the wineries.  

To the north, you’ll travel through lush landscapes with plenty of small towns, waterfalls, and beaches to explore. Cape Reinga sits at the northernmost tip of New Zealand, marked by a picturesque lighthouse. Not only is the scenery spectacular but you can see two oceans colliding, the Tasman Sea from the left and the southern Pacific Ocean from the right. 

You can follow the main highway back to Auckland or take the scenic route along the west coast for a more remote experience. Stop at 90 Mile Beach for a look at the pristine white sands. Only 4WD vehicles can drive on the beach, but you can park and wander on foot.

Then visit Tane Mahuta at Waipoua Forest. This 2,000-year-old tree is massive and affectionately referred to as the Lord of Forest. It’s a quick stop, only a five-minute walk from the parking lot.

As you head south of Auckland, be sure to take the short detour to the Coromandel Peninsula, where Hot Water Beach is world famous for the hot mineral water that sits below the surface. At low tide, find a spot that feels warm underneath and start digging to create your own bubbling hot pool right on the beach! I got up at sunrise to find my spot before the crowds — it was bliss. 

Lord of the Rings fans won’t want to miss a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, located in the Waikato region. The attention to detail is truly impressive! Tours start from NZ$90 and will take around 2.5 hours.

Experience a geothermal mud spa at Hell’s Gate in Rotorua. The sulfur-rich area smells like rotten eggs, but the mineral waters are thought to have healing and rejuvenation powers. It’s a unique and relaxing experience, and my skin never felt so soft. For NZ$105, you’ll get access to the mud bath, sulfur spas, and the plunge pool.

For outdoor adventurers, a visit to Tongariro National Park and Mount Taranaki should be on your list. Take your pick from several trails, ranging from short walks to full-day excursions. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated one of world’s best hikes, but it’s not for the fainthearted. The 12-mile one-way journey takes around 7-9 hours to complete, but it’s the best way to see absolutely everything that the park has to offer.

For a more relaxing experience, visit the Hawke’s Bay region. It’s a significant wine-producing area and the perfect place to sample some of the food and wine at one of many world-class vineyards. Napier is an Art Deco town located in Hawke’s Bay that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is known for culture and arts. I enjoyed checking out the shops around Cuba Street, which has a great bohemian vibe and is a little bit quirky. I was happy to find Fidel’s Café, which has great coffee — especially good after drinking instant coffee on the road. 

South Island

In my opinion, a road trip around the South Island is one of the best solo-travel experiences in New Zealand. It’s a journey that will take you to some of the most dramatic landscapes the country has to offer. I suggest spending at least two weeks here, especially if you want to cover the more remote areas of Milford Sound and the West Coast.

Most start their journey from either Christchurch or Queenstown. The latter is the ideal starting point for a South Island road trip. It’s also a great place to meet other travelers.

Located in a stunning alpine paradise, Queenstown is the place for epic adventure experiences, from skydiving to jet boating and so much more. One thing I wish I did there was bungy jump from the Kawarau Bridge , a 140-foot plunge during which you can touch the water if you dare. It’s the world’s first bungy jump actually — definitely on my bucket list for next time.

Lake Moke and Bob’s Cove are two of my favorite spots in Queenstown; both are easy walks in stunning locations, a big reward for minimal effort. 

Queenstown also has a vibrant nightlife and bar scene. The Queenstown Bar Crawl is a great way to experience the bars as a solo traveler and meet new people. It’s a guided tour on which you’ll be escorted to five of the top bars along with fellow crawlers. It costs NZ$30, which includes free shots and pizza, plus discounts on drinks for the rest of your stay. 

I also recommend you try the famous Fergburger while in town. Like Burger Burger in Auckland, it has a reputation for having the best burgers around. Why not try them both and see which one you think is better? I know my winner, but I’ll keep it under wraps so I don’t ruin the fun. Fergburger will likely have a long line, so if you don’t have the time to wait, or can’t be bothered, Devil Burger is just around corner; it’s also very good — locals might argue it’s even better!

There is so much to see and do in Milford Sound , it’s worth spending a night in the nearby town of Te Anau. Then you can take your time exploring all the great places to stop along the road getting there and enjoy a cruise along the length of the fjord. It’s also a great area to explore on foot, which is easy to do given the variety of hikes in the area. The Lake Marian track is a visually breathtaking trail into the Fiordland wilderness and my personal favorite. 

Another walk I enjoyed in the Milford Sound area is the one to Giant Gate Falls. It’s part of the Milford Track, but you can do this section as a day walk from October to May. I booked the water taxi from Milford Sound to the start of the trail at Sandfly Point through Fiordland Outdoors . It was nice to do solo, and there were enough people around to not feel too isolated. Plus, the scenery was breathtaking. The only downside is the sandflies — they are relentless, so be sure to bring bug spray.

In my experience, the drive from Queenstown to Mt. Cook is one of the best road trips on the South Island. This 171-mile journey has so many scenic stops along the way that you can easily turn the three-hour drive into a whole-day affair, and that’s exactly what I did. You’ll get to experience the historic Cardona Hotel, the outdoorsy town of Wanaka, and the otherworldly Lindis Pass, along with some lesser-known but equally beautiful spots.

The Hooker Valley Track in Mt. Cook and the Instagram-famous Roy’s Peak Track in Wanaka are both good for hiking as a solo traveler. Both are easy to navigate and open all year round, unless there’s been heavy snowfall. Plus, you’ll be on the trail with lots of other hikers.

I had such a great experience at Roy’s Peak. It was fun helping each other get the perfect shot after the uphill mission to get to the lookout point.

The Hooker Valley Track was my first solo hike in New Zealand and one of my most memorable. It’s a popular trail and not technically difficult. Other hikers greeted me as I walked past, and the scenery took my breath away. It was a pinch-me moment, and I’m so glad I got to experience it on my own — maybe because I was a little nervous in what seemed like the middle of nowhere, but mainly because I needed my own time and thoughts to absorb the dramatic landscapes all around me.

Doing one of the New Zealand Great Walks is another great way to explore the South Island on foot as a solo traveler. These multiday hikes are seasonal, from October to April, and will require a bit of planning. You’ll need to book huts early via the Department of Conservation (DOC). Or you can pay a bit more and take a guided walk if you’re not keen to go completely solo. This way you’ll be with the same group for the duration, which can be great fun.

As you travel along the west coast, be sure to stop at Hokitika Gorge to experience the bluest water. A couple hours further up is the small but lively village of Franz Josef. From here, you can experience the ultimate heli-hike or ice climbing adventure on the Franz Josef Glacier; you can even take a cold plunge in the icy water. Just be careful, because there are rocks and strong currents, so I suggest doing this only if others are around. After the second swing bridge, there is a small beach where you can enter the icy turquoise water.  Just don’t leave your towel in the van like I did. I’m sure you could hear my teeth chattering from the North Island as I ran back to the parking lot. It still gives me goosebumps thinking about how cold that was!

From Kaikoura, whale watching is a popular activity. You can see the majestic sperm whale and dusky dolphins all year round. You might even encounter humpback whales or orcas at certain times of the year, due to their migratory patterns. Whale Watch Kaikoura has a 95% success rate of seeing dolphins and whales. Summer is the most enjoyable time of year to go, but do check weather conditions before you book, as bad weather can cancel your tour.

When to Go and What to Bring

The time of year you visit New Zealand will impact what you’ll be seeing and doing.

Summertime has the best weather and most daylight hours to pack in more activities. Meeting new people will be easy among the influx of visitors during the high season. The warmer weather is also ideal for exploring New Zealand’s landscapes and extensive hiking trails.

However, it’s also the busiest time of year to travel around the country, so expect more crowds and higher prices. It can also be hard to secure accommodation in the popular areas. I recommend booking things like your car rental, accommodation (including campgrounds), tours, and activities as early as possible.

READ NEXT: The Perfect New Zealand Summer Packing List

Winter is a great time to visit if you’re eager to experience the ski fields and a quieter, more relaxed trip. Temperatures range from 35 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit on the South Island and 40 to 60 degrees on the North Island. Although it’s warmer, there is generally higher rainfall on the North Island. However, some hiking trails will be closed, and road conditions can be harder to navigate in certain parts of the country. On the South Island, you’ll need to carry and be able to fit snow chains to your vehicle.

I recommend visiting during spring and fall, however, when you can enjoy most activities with fewer crowds and relatively stable weather. Warmer days and cooler evenings are ideal for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Spring and fall are also easier to plan, with more availability and cheaper pricing for things like accommodation and car rentals. Most attractions are open, but days and times can vary throughout the shoulder seasons. Be sure to check the opening and closing dates for attractions you don’t want to miss.

The good news is that New Zealand is a great country to visit year-round, with plenty of things to do in every season.

Whenever you decide to visit, make sure to pack accordingly. New Zealand is known to have four seasons in one day. I have experienced this firsthand — it’s wild. I recommend bringing a waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear for exploring. Layers are a good option for spring and fall, so you can adjust them as needed. A warm outer layer and thermals are essential for winter, especially on the South Island. And of course, don’t forget the camera and extra batteries to capture the endless beauty of New Zealand.

If you’re ready for a bucket-list experience as a solo female traveler, New Zealand is an ideal destination. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure in a relaxed, friendly, and safe environment. The country’s beauty will leave you in awe and hungry for more adventures.

Heather Marston travels extensively throughout New Zealand and shares her adventures on her blog,  New Zealand Wanderer . She can usually be found exploring hidden gems on the North Island, road-tripping around the South Island, or hiking New Zealand’s vast network of trails. Follow along with Heather’s adventures on  Instagram .

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New Zealand , Solo Travel

Solo travel in new zealand: a complete guide (and honest thoughts).

New Zealand is a fantastic destination for solo travellers. Full of breathtaking natural beauty, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and unique wildlife found nowhere else on earth, New Zealand is an amazing place for a solo trip.

I spent four months solo travelling in New Zealand. It’s become one of my favourite countries and holds a special place in my heart. In this post, I’ve shared all you need to know about solo travel in New Zealand. I’ve also included my honest thoughts on whether New Zealand is a good place for a solo trip.

Table of Contents

Is New Zealand safe for solo travel?

When it comes to solo travel, it doesn’t get much safer than New Zealand. According to the 2023 Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the fourth most peaceful country in the entire world (after Iceland, Denmark, and Ireland). With friendly locals and a low crime rate, New Zealand is a great option when it comes to solo travel and solo female travel.

I spent six months in New Zealand. Four of these months were spent solo travelling, including two solo campervan trips . I never once encountered any issues. That’s not to say crime doesn’t exist in New Zealand, petty crimes such as theft are common in and around the larger cities such as Auckland. But overall, New Zealand is a very safe country for solo travel and one of the safest countries in the world.

Best time to visit New Zealand as a solo traveller

New Zealand is a year-round destination, but different seasons certainly have their benefits depending on what you want to see and do. From a weather perspective, New Zealand has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Being in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are the opposite of what most people are used to. For example, December to March is New Zealand’s summer. The months of June, July and August are New Zealand’s winter months.

If you’re visiting New Zealand as a solo traveller, here are some things to consider when it comes to the best time of year to visit.

The summer months are the peak season in New Zealand. The lupins bloom, the days are long, and most activities are operational. Summer in New Zealand is a busy period which makes it a great time to meet other travellers.

However, if you visit New Zealand in the summer, both accommodation and activities will be a lot more expensive. It’s also worth noting that you’ll have little flexibility in the summer. Accommodation and activities need to be booked well in advance. If you want to have a fully flexible itinerary, the summer might not be the best time.

On the other hand, winter in New Zealand is the quietest time to visit (Queenstown aside). You’ll be able to be much more flexible with your itinerary. New Zealand in winter is a stunning time. The snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps are truly beautiful.

However, the winter season in New Zealand comes with its challenges. Firstly, the snow on the South Island may limit some activities, including hiking. It also means driving conditions can be difficult.

Queenstown in winter is particularly busy because of the ski season, so be sure to book anything there in advance.

The shoulder seasons

Spring and autumn are the shoulder seasons in New Zealand. Think April, May and June and September & October. This is arguably one of the best times to visit New Zealand. Temperatures aren’t too extreme, and accommodation is slightly cheaper than the peak season.

As a solo traveller, you might find the shoulder season a little harder to meet people. But that’s not to say hostels will be empty by any means.

How to get around New Zealand as a solo traveller

One of the biggest challenges with solo travel in New Zealand is transport. Getting around New Zealand alone can be expensive and sometimes challenging. New Zealand is a vast country with limited public transport options.

Here are some options for getting around New Zealand as a solo traveller. If you’re not planning to rent your own vehicle, read my guide on how to get around New Zealand without a car .

By hiring a car or campervan

The best way to get around New Zealand is by rental car or campervan . New Zealand is a large country and while the major towns and cities are well-connected, you often need a car once you get there to see the attractions (especially if you want to hike).

Hiring a car also means you can take the scenic route between attractions. Many of the buses stick to the main roads. If you opt to hire a campervan in New Zealand, make sure it’s self-contained . This means you can freedom camp in New Zealand and save money on accommodation.

The downside to hiring a car or campervan alone in New Zealand is the cost. It’s a very expensive option, especially when you add in the cost of fuel. New Zealand is also a big country and there are some long drives involved. Doing this by yourself can be very tiring. I spent a week driving from Queenstown to Auckland as part of a relocation deal. It felt very lonely at times.

Read next: Planning a solo road trip in New Zealand? Here are 10 helpful tips

If hiring a car is too expensive or not something you want to do, another good option to get around New Zealand is to use the bus.

InterCity is the main bus network in New Zealand and connects most of the main cities and towns. I’ve spoken more about InterCity in my guide to getting around New Zealand without a car .

There are several other ways to get around New Zealand without a car. This includes the famous Kiwi Experience and domestic flights.

I’ve often seen people ask if hitchhiking is safe in New Zealand. Hitchhiking is perfectly legal in New Zealand (unlike Australia) and it’s a common sight around the country. It’s not something I would personally do as a solo traveller, but I’ll leave that up to you.

Group tours in New Zealand for solo travellers

If you’re nervous about solo travel in New Zealand, consider looking at a group tour. Group tours are a fantastic way to see the highlights of a country in a short amount of time. They’re a popular option for first-time solo travellers as everything is organised for you.

There are several small group tours in New Zealand . This includes tours from G Adventures and Intro Travel . The Kiwi Experience also have pre-organised group tours.

The cost of most group tours includes your transportation, accommodation, and some activities. Many activities such as sky diving or bungy jumping are an extra cost.

How long to spend in New Zealand

This is a really difficult question to answer. I spent six months in New Zealand with a goal to explore every corner of the country, but I still feel like there is so much more to see. It would be easy to spend just a few days exploring one of the cities, and it would also be easy to spend an entire year travelling around the country.

To see the best of both the North and South Islands, you need to allow at least four weeks. This would allow ten days to see the North Island and the rest of the time in the South Island. In an ideal world, I’d suggest at least two months in New Zealand.

If you’re tight on budget and time, two weeks in New Zealand is a sufficient amount of time to see the highlights of the North Island and the Queenstown area. For example, you could spend five days in Auckland and do some day trips from there. Then, head to Queenstown and explore the Southern Alps.

Pros of solo travel in New Zealand

I spent four months travelling solo in New Zealand. I had the absolute time of my life. It is a great way to experience the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’.

Here are some advantages of solo travel in New Zealand.

Full flexibility

Travelling solo in New Zealand allows you to have full flexibility of your schedule. You get to decide what you want to do and don’t need to worry about others. If you change your mind about an activity, it doesn’t matter.

New Zealand is a large and diverse country. There are many natural wonders, incredible hiking trails , adrenaline-fuelled activities and cultural attractions too. By travelling solo, you can pick and choose to do what you want to do and when you want to do it.

Meet new friends

Solo travel in New Zealand is a fantastic way to meet new friends. The hostels in New Zealand are very social (especially in the likes of Queenstown). I met many lifelong friends during my six months in New Zealand. When you travel with a friend, there’s not always a need to be social. 

Stick to your budget

In my opinion, one of the biggest advantages of solo travel is being able to stick to your budget. We all travel with different budgets, and that doesn’t always match the person you’re travelling with. Solo travel in New Zealand allows you to dictate your budget and stick to it. Want a bit of luxury? Great, book a hotel. Want to budget and stay in a dorm room? You can do that too. You have complete control of your spending.

Travel how you like

Travelling solo in New Zealand means you have complete control over how you travel. You can hire a car if your budget allows, hire a campervan, use the bus, catch a flight or join a group tour. It’s entirely your trip and you don’t need to compromise for anyone.

Read next: 10 Advantages of Solo Travel from a Solo Traveller

Cons of solo travel in New Zealand

While there are several advantages of solo travel in New Zealand, there are also some disadvantages. New Zealand is an epic destination for solo travel, but it’s not perfect by any means.

It’s expensive

It’s no secret that New Zealand is a very expensive country. Unfortunately, travelling solo can make this worse. I could only spend two months in a campervan as I was with a friend. There’s no way I would have been able to afford it without sharing the cost. Travelling with a friend means you can save money on transport, including petrol. It also means you can sometimes save money on food and accommodation depending on what you do.

Hiking alone

New Zealand is a haven for hiking lovers with some of the best hiking trails in the entire world. While hiking solo is something I encourage, it can be nerve-wracking at times. There are several hikes I avoided in New Zealand as I didn’t feel confident doing them by myself. This was because of large scree fields, avalanche risks and lack of phone signal.

Of course, this is a completely personal decision. We all have different confidence levels for solo travel and hiking alone.

Read next: planning to hike alone? Read my guide for solo hikes .

Backpacker scene

New Zealand doesn’t have the biggest backpacking scene. Sure, all the hostels I stayed in were friendly and social, but New Zealand isn’t exactly full to the brim with backpackers.

Away from the big towns such as Queenstown and Auckland, the hostels are a little on the quieter side. You may find there is only one hostel in a town and people tend to only stay for one or two nights. This can sometimes feel a little isolating and frustrating. You meet so many people but you are all going in different directions.

It can be lonely

Solo travel in New Zealand can feel a little lonely at times. While it’s easy to meet others, I found that everyone was on such a different schedule or itinerary that it was hard to stick together (compared to that of Southeast Asia). Plus, if you’re hiring a car or campervan, there will be some very long drives and doing this by yourself can be lonely.

Best places in New Zealand for solo travellers

Here are some of the best destinations for solo travellers in New Zealand. This is not a comprehensive list of everywhere to visit, but some of the best spots for those travelling solo in New Zealand.

Read next: Check out the 30 best places to visit in New Zealand’s South Island .

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. It’s also where the country’s main international airport is and a popular start or end point for a trip. You’ll find many other solo travellers beginning their adventure here. While in New Zealand, don’t miss a visit to the stunning Waiheke Island where you can relax on the beach or go wine tasting.

One of the best hostels in Auckland is Lylo . This modern hostel has a selection of dorm rooms with pods offering plenty of privacy. There are also private rooms, a social (and cheap) bar plus a chill-out area. It’s one of my absolute favourite hostels I’ve ever stayed in.

Taupo is a beautiful town in the heart of the North Island. It’s a very popular spot for backpackers and solo travellers with a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do . This includes visiting the famous Huka Falls and doing a sky dive over Lake Taupo , New Zealand’s largest lake.

Taupo is also the gateway to Tongariro National Park, home to the famous Tongariro Crossing . This is an absolute must-do while in New Zealand. It’s been voted the best day hike in the world and for excellent reason. The incredible hike takes you past other-worldly landscapes, including emerald lakes and volcanic craters. There’s nowhere else like it in New Zealand.

The best hostel in Taupo is Finlay Jack’s YHA . It’s a social spot with everything you need.

Queenstown is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for solo travellers. Many people in New Zealand on the working holiday visa base themselves in Queenstown. There are several great hostels which make it very easy for solo travellers to meet others.

Aside from its beautiful setting, Queenstown is known as the adventure of the world. It’s a good place to tick off many bucket list activities such as sky diving, bungy jumping or a trip to Milford Sound (the Eighth Wonder of the World).

There are several good hostels in Queenstown. This includes Nomad’s Hostel and Black Sheep .

Wanaka is a great place to experience the beauty of the Southern Alps without the chaos of Queenstown. Known as ‘Queenstown’s little sister’, the beautiful town of Wanaka lies on the shores of Lake Wanaka. It’s surrounded by incredible mountains and is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.

The town itself is a fantastic spot for solo travel in New Zealand. It’s lively with plenty of things to do, but isn’t too chaotic. It’s the perfect spot to relax a little. While in Wanaka, consider hiking the famous Roys Peak , home to *that* famous viewpoint. If you want to avoid the busy trails of Roys Peak, consider the magnificent Isthmus Peak (which I prefer to Roys Peak).

One of the best hostels in Wanaka is the YHA . It’s a little outdated, but a social spot. There’s a courtyard just down the road with some delicious food stalls.

Christchurch

Christchurch is the biggest city on the South Island. Many visitors use this as a start or end point for their South Island trip without spending much time there. However, I loved Christchurch. It’s a great spot for solo travellers with lots of lively bars and a great food scene.

While in Christchurch, I’d recommend a visit to the International Antarctic Centre near the airport.

My favourite hostel in Christchurch is Hotel Give . If you want to stay near the airport, consider Lylo Christchurch .

Lake Tekapo

A visit to Lake Tekapo is a must on any solo trip to New Zealand. Granted, it’s not the liveliest of spots, but it is truly stunning. Lake Tekapo is surrounded by incredible mountains. It boasts magnificent natural beauty and is home to the famous Tekapo Hot Springs, the perfect place to relax.

Tekapo lies in the Makenzie Dark Sky Reserve and one of the best things to do in Tekapo is to go stargazing. You can opt to join a tour or simply relax by the lake and stare at the stars.

While in the Tekapo area, don’t miss a visit to Mount Cook National Park , home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain. It’s an area of true beauty with some great hiking opportunities, including the famous Hooker Valley Track . The trail takes hikers through the valley and past snow-capped mountains, blue lakes and across swing bridges with incredible views of Mt Cook.

Check out my accommodation and camping guide for Tekapo to discover the best places to stay.

Other areas to visit

New Zealand is filled to the brim with epic destinations. The ones mentioned above are especially good for solo travel in New Zealand, but there are many more well worth visiting if you have enough time.

Here are a few of my personal favourites.

• Bay of Islands : this is a fantastic spot for relaxing on the beach and seeing a different side of New Zealand. Think golden beaches and crystal-clear waters.
• The West Coast : the South Island’s West Coast is like nowhere else I’ve ever visited. This stunning, almost Jurassic-like coastline is filled with incredible viewpoints, glaciers, and rainforests. It’s also where you need to go to visit the famous Franz Josef Glacier.
• Coromandel Peninsula: located on the North Island of New Zealand, the Coromandel is a place of natural beauty. With endless rainforests and mountains, it has some great hiking trails, including one of my favourites – The Pinnacles Hike . The Coromandel is also home to the famous hot water beach.

• Kaikoura : this sleepy fishing town on the South Island is the place to be to experience some of New Zealand’s best marine life. You can swim with wild dolphins , see wild seals and take a whale watching flight . Kaikoura is truly a magnificent place. 
• Stewart Island : this remote island off the south coast is a haven for adventure and wildlife lovers. It offers an authentic ‘island life’ experience and is a great spot to see wild kiwis (and go shark cage diving) !

Tips for solo travel in New Zealand

Here are a few tips to help you with your solo trip to New Zealand.

Download Google maps

New Zealand is a large country and with so many mountains, it doesn’t have the strongest infrastructure. This means you can go for long periods without any phone signal whatsoever.

If you’re travelling solo in New Zealand, it’s a good idea to use Google Maps to download a map of the country offline. This means you can get directions without any service.

Stay in hostels

Staying in hostels is a great way to meet new people and get advice. The good news is that hostels are a common feature in New Zealand and can be found in most towns. If staying in a hostel dorm room isn’t for you, most of the hostels also have private room options.

Speak to the locals

New Zealanders are very helpful and friendly. They’re proud of their country and want to help others experience the best of it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.

Facebook groups

There are several fantastic Facebook Groups about travelling to New Zealand. If you’re a solo traveller, they’re a good way to meet people and ask for advice. One of my personal favourites is NZ Travel Tips .

Travel Insurance

Make sure you have travel insurance before visiting New Zealand. If you’re a Brit, you’ll get reciprocal health care in New Zealand. However, this won’t cover everything and it’s still important to make sure you’re covered for all circumstances. My personal favourite Travel Insurance is True Traveller.

My honest thoughts: is New Zealand a good destination for solo travel?

New Zealand is a great destination for solo travellers. It’s certainly not the cheapest country on the planet, but it’s easy to meet people and is well set up for solo travel. 

Due to how expensive the country is, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for budget backpackers, especially if you want to go beyond the towns. Budget aside, New Zealand is a fantastic place to solo travel. The natural beauty of this country is on a whole other level. With snow-capped mountains, incredible lakes, wild coastlines, dramatic volcanoes and lush rainforests, New Zealand has a bit of everything (even sand dunes).

It’s worth noting that New Zealand is a vast country. Some of the smaller towns can be a little on the quieter side when it comes to meeting others. Having said that, I do think New Zealand is a great place for solo travel (and I’ve travelled solo to over 30 countries).

If you’re considering a solo trip to New Zealand, I really could not recommend it enough. The six months I spent in New Zealand changed my life.

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Home » Oceania » New Zealand » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in New Zealand | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in New Zealand | Destinations & Tips for 2024

There are three factors to consider when traveling solo: safety, community, and convenience. Well, New Zealand offers all of the above. Not only is it one of the safest countries in the world, with friendly locals, but it’s also an absolute gem when it comes to natural beauty.

With beaches, volcanoes, and rolling countryside home to more sheep than humans, this island nation has it all. Not to mention, a fascinating culture and history unlike any other country.

Traveling alone is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself. You know what they say, traveling is the only thing you can spend money on, to get richer …

That said, it can be overwhelming traveling solo in New Zealand, especially if it’s your first time in the country and you have no social links.

But don’t stress; this is where we come in. We’ve curated the ultimate guide to solo travel on the North and South Island, from creating the perfect itinerary to helping you connect with other travelers and locals along the way.

So, let’s take a look at some of the best New Zealand solo travel tips and tricks. Dust off your backpack, and let’s dive in:

5 Things to Do in New Zealand When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in new zealand, the best travel apps for solo travel in new zealand, safety tips for solo travelers in new zealand, tips for solo traveling in new zealand, how to meet people when solo traveling in new zealand, final thoughts on your solo trip to new zealand.

Spending time outdoors surrounded by nature is no doubt a favorite way to explore New Zealand . That said, there are plenty of things to do in this diverse country. From intense hikes to cultural immersions and dining out. 

Here are five things I highly recommend adding to your itinerary:

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1. Taste Some Local Wines on Waiheke Island

If you’re a fan of wine like me, you’ll likely know that New Zealand produces some of the world’s best small-batch wines. Most of the country’s vineyards and wineries are located on Waiheke Island, just off the coast of Auckland.

One of the best New Zealand solo travel activities is to dine with a glass of local vino. So, book yourself into a wine tasting and vineyard tour for a taste of the island’s famous Cab Sav, Merlot, Malbec, and Cab Franc grapes. You’ll thank me later.

2. Summit a Volcanic Peak on Rangitoto Island

If there is one thing every adventurer has to tick off their list while in New Zealand, it’s hiking a volcano. If you’re going to Auckland , Rangitoto Island (just off the coastline) is one of the most popular walks in the region, for good reason.

It’s not too strenuous, is easy to get to from the city, and offers breathtaking views of lava tunnels, caves, and the surrounding volcanic islands.

With its last eruption recorded over 550 years ago, the volcano is super safe to hike. That said, with past experiences, always make sure to do your own research and know the risks of a volcanic hike.

3. Witness the Magic of the Southern Lights in The Catlins

You’ve heard of the Northern Lights, but did you know that the Southern Hemisphere had its own equivalent? One of the most spectacular natural wonders to experience as a solo traveler in New Zealand has to be the Southern Lights or Aurora Australis .

The green and pink hue of dancing light occurs over the horizon at New Zealand’s southern tip. Most striking between March and September (the coldest months), The Catlins is one of the best viewing spots for the phenomena. 

4. Immerse Yourself in Maori Culture

A Marae is a traditional Maori meeting ground composed of a fenced-in complex of carved buildings belonging to a particular tribe or family. Today, the Marae is the center of the Maori community and daily life, where celebrations and gatherings take place. 

There are plenty of Maraes that welcome tourists and visitors to experience the culture’s authentic way of life, mostly on the North Island. You’ll need to be formally invited and welcomed onto a Marae before visiting. Of course, respect is expected.

A tour of a Maori Village is a great way to learn more about New Zealand’s culture, whilst supporting local businesses.

5. Dig Yourself a Homemade Spa at Hot Water Beach

One of the most interesting places on New Zealand’s North Island, Hot Water Beach, is as much a scenic wonderland as it is a unique experience. Fed by natural hot springs, the water under the sand bubbles up at low tide, allowing beachgoers to dig personal jacuzzis in the sand. 

With the cool water lapping against the warm sand, this otherworldly environment really is enough to boggle the mind!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Whether you stick to New Zealand’s major cities or are interested in hiking some of the country’s most highly acclaimed mountain peaks (pun intended), there is always an adventure to be had in this Pacific island country. 

Destined for hikers, shopaholics, and culture fans, here are five of the best New Zealand solo travel locations not to be missed:

A nightlife hotspot and foodie sanctuary, a visit to Queenstown is the South Island’s most recommended city for solo travelers. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by New Zealand’s Southern Alps, this town is thriving with nature, wildlife, and beautiful views. 

So much so, that it is even known as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand , with places to bungee jump, ski and snowboard, hike, and go boating, depending on the season. 

Especially friendly for solo adventurers, Queenstown has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Approachable locals make it easy to strike up conversations and make new friends.   

Do yourself a favor and spend a day in the Fiordland National Park’s hiking trails and exploring Queenstown Hill. You’ll also want to experience the foodie scene here, tasting local wines and dining out solo, without feeling like a total weirdo.

The Flaming Kiwi Backpackers is a cozy hostel that will make you feel right at home in the city. It’s just a five-minute stroll from the town center and provides free bikes, frisbee golf discs, a BBQ area, and plenty of games and puzzles to keep you busy when the weather isn’t cooperating. Get it while it’s hot !

You just gotta visit Auckland . It’s like New Zealand’s answer to South Africa’s Cape Town. It’s beautiful, flooded with young locals and travelers, and has a buzzing city center with endless hidden gems to discover. If I had to describe this city in two words, it would be dynamic and colorful.

Firstly, it’s a cultural melting pot of New Zealanders, with residents and tourists from all over the world creating a super friendly vibe across town. Just what the New Zealand solo travel doctor ordered! 

Of course, the city is also famous for its landscapes and scenic beauty, offering endless beaches, parks, and even the iconic Rangitoto Island to explore. There aren’t too many cities in the world where you could hit the best city museums, lounge on the beach, and hike a volcanic mountain in one day.

I give Auckland a big thumbs up for its accessibility, too. The public transport system is easy to use, extensive, and affordable.

From a massive 20-bed dorm to private ensuites, Haka Lodge Auckland offers something for every budget. It’s clean, recently refurbished, and has a spacious kitchen where you can prepare delicious meals with your new mates.

I won’t even attempt to hide my bias here. When it comes to authentic traditional New Zealand, it doesn’t get much better than Wanaka. The small lakeside resort town on the South Island offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. 

Naturally, it’s as stunning as resort towns get, with plenty of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and opportunities to kayak and swim in the lake. A true outdoor-lovers paradise year-round, Wanaka is also one of New Zealand’s most prestigious ski resort towns.

As you might expect, Wanaka is home to a super friendly community of locals and ex-pats, many of whom live here for outdoor adventure themselves. Strike up a convo, and you might meet your next hiking buddy.

Sure, it’s not the cheapest destination to travel solo in New Zealand , but that isn’t to say there aren’t plenty of affordable places to stay and eat here. 

Your go-to adventure base in Wanaka, Wanaka Backpackers Bothy , is the ideal space for a budget-friendly, activity-packed vacation. Through summer and winter, the hostel offers a bike maintenance stand and snowboard servicing area for real outdoor adventurers.

Bay of Islands

Traveling solo in New Zealand is all about going to the edge of your comfort zone, exploring bucket-list destinations, and writing your own travel manifesto. With stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural and historical heritage, do yourself a favor and reserve a spot for the Bay of Islands at the top of your bucket list.

The Bay of Islands also comes with a good dose of slow-paced living – just like you might expect from any island.

Located right at the northern tip of the North Island, the Bay of Islands is quite literally as it sounds – a bay of 144 sub-tropical islands. The views might make you think you’ve landed on a postcard or in a scene of Pirates of the Caribbean. With exquisite landscapes, crystal clear water, and secluded beaches, coves, and bays, there is no better place for a rejuvenating beach trip.

Naturally, water-based activities reign supreme here. Some of the best things to do in New Zealand can be done here; with sailing, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and boating on most itineraries.

But it’s not all beach and boats here. The Bay of Islands is also a historically important site, marking the first European settlement in the country. Make sure to visit Waitangi to learn a bit more about New Zealand’s Maori culture and the history of its indigenous tribes.

With the best views in Paihia, Haka Lodge Paihia offers luxury dorm rooms for solo travelers to ensuite privates for a bit more alone time. The property is furnished with modern interiors and a spacious central living area and kitchen with views, on views, on views.

Rotorua is a lot of things: It’s naturally stunning, packed with exciting activities, budget-friendly accommodations, and delicious restaurants. It’s also where you will find New Zealand’s most famous hot springs and mud pools, fed by geothermal activity and natural geysers. 

For an otherworldly experience, make your way to the Te Puia, Whakarewarewa, and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland for a glimpse into this geothermal activity.

Maori Culture is abundant in this region, which is a hub for locals. It is one of the best places to experience and engage with local communities. so,  make sure you attend at least a few cultural ceremonies or traditional performances.

Surprise, surprise, there are also plenty of outdoor activities to take part in here. Whether alone or with new friends, you can hike through the lush forests and past gorgeous lakes, white-water raft, mountain bike, or even zipline through the forests.

You’re in luck because there are plenty of affordable accommodation options catering to budget travelers and solo adventurers.

Rock Solid Backpackers Rotorua NZ is as central as you can hope. It’s within walking distance from the lakefront, Polynesian Spa, supermarkets, and the Arts Village. Depending on how much privacy you want, you can choose from private single rooms to female-only dorms. 

Having some great travel apps can make your overall travel experience a much smoother ride.

• Hostelworld : Your go-to accommodation application for finding hostels
• Booking.com and Airbnb : The best apps for finding hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering vacation rentals
• Couchsurfer : A way for locals to connect with tourists who are looking for cheap (even free) accommodation. Not recommended for solo female travelers in New Zealand.
• GetYourGuide and Viator : The leading tour apps to find highly-rated tours and experiences in the area
• Tinder, Bumble, Hinge : Dating apps that can be switched to a ‘friend mode’ to help you meet people in your vicinity
• Camper Mate: Featuring the locations of public toilets, bins, campsites, supermarkets, free Wi-Fi, etc across the country
• Breadcrumbs : A unique app designed to help you find hidden gems in the country, as recommended by travelers with similar interests
• NZ DOC Campsite Finder: Another campsite app that shows the nearest Department of Conservation-run campsites in your area.
• Great Rides App (NZ) : A mountain biking app designed to share the best bike trails in the country
• Met Service : The most reliable weather app in New Zealand. You can expect four seasons in a day here, so make sure to stay prepared
• Viber and Whatsapp : The primary way to contact locals in New Zealand. iMessage is not used extensively here
• Holafly  – An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

Facebook groups: Facebook groups specific to each major area or city are also a great way to stay up-to-date with events and meetups. ‘ New Zealand Travel Tips (NZTT) ’ and ‘ Travelling New Zealand ’ are two popular options.

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

While New Zealand is known for being one of the safest countries to travel to, precautions are always important. Wherever you go, learning how to travel safely is of paramount importance.

Keep a hand and eye on your belongings in crowded places. I recommend bringing a money belt to keep your cash and valuables close. Use a card or tap your phone instead of carrying cash. You know the drill.

As always, solo female travelers in New Zealand should stick to safe and well-lit areas after dark. Share your location with a new friend in the country, especially when you go out at night.

Don’t leave drinks unattended, and never accept a drink from a stranger. Use official cabs or Uber, and trust your instincts. In New Zealand, I would trust your gut… If something feels off, there is usually a good reason for it.

Despite New Zealand being a safe country, NEVER let your guard down. Whilst that may sound pessimistic, it’s important to know that there are bad people and good people everywhere. Look after yourself and as I said, trust your gut. You’ll be fine.

Drawing from our wealth of travel knowledge and extensive research on this captivating country, we’ve meticulously curated our top travel tips for New Zealand . Grab your pen and let’s go!

• Spend 50% of your nights in a NZ hostel . This is the easiest way to meet like-minded travelers, whether by sharing a room, at social events, or in common areas. 
• When visiting the North Island, LyLo Auckland is the city’s premier hostel. With low prices, quality comfort, and a location bang smack in the middle of everything. For a more low-key experience, the YHA Wanaka offers sociable self-catering accommodation surrounded by the mountains.
• Even if group tours aren’t your vibe, put your name down for a few booked adventures and tours. This is both a great way to meet other travelers and, of course, offers a unique perspective of a new place.
• Plan your own trip, and don’t live by a template itinerary. While an excellent source of inspiration, itineraries off the internet (like this one) or recommendations from friends will only take you so far. Choose to join tours and visit places that make the inner adventurer in you sparkle; traveling solo in New Zealand is one of those few times you can be totally selfish!
• Download an Airsim (Holafly) on arrival. Having access to data is essential when on the go. Not only to keep in touch with friends and family back home but to keep track of where you are. It helps to book and change reservations, and, of course, for safety reasons.
• Share your itinerary and travel plans with someone back home. Make sure your trusted family members and friends have access to your Google location (or equivalent).
• GET INSURED ! Get a great insurance plan that covers both health and emergency repatriation. Just in case you run into any issues with lost luggage or misplaced items. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Stay in a hostel : This is the easiest way to meet others as a solo traveler in New Zealand . Oh, and also the most affordable. Take advantage of communal spaces like bars, open kitchens, and living areas. Join a few hostel-organized tours like treks or pub crawls.
• Join group activities and museum tours : Hostel-organized activities aside, joining city tours and museum tours is another great way to meet people with similar interests. While, of course, adding some new knowledge to your repertoire. 
• Attend cultural events : Locals really appreciate it when tourists take the time to learn about their culture. There are plenty of Maori events held throughout the year where you can make new friends while learning something, too.
• Explore shared spaces: If you’re traveling as a digital nomad , coffee shops and communal workspaces are the perfect setting to meet others.
• Engage on social media: Step outside of your comfort zone and open yourself up to new friends using social platforms and dating applications. Use Facebook to scour local events in the area and Hinge or Tinder to meet other travelers and locals (romantic or not). Most major cities also have Instagram pages where different free events and cultural activities are advertised.
• Get a gym membership : If you’re spending more than a week or a month in one location, sign up for a gym, yoga, or pilates membership.
• Volunteer : Not only is volunteering in NZ a great way to give back to a local community, but it’s also one of the best ways to meet other travelers and locals with similar values.

Snow-capped volcanoes, dynamic cities, and more sheep than you can count, New Zealand is topping the list of our recent travel bucket lists – and for a good reason. As a solo traveler, you’d struggle to find another location that is equal parts safe, easy to explore, and packed with outdoor beauty.

But that’s not all; the land of the hobbits is also packed with cultural flavor, home to arguably some of the friendliest people on the planet. And I don’t say this lightly. Truly, you will be blown away by the hospitality and welcome you will receive traveling in New Zealand alone.

Sure, exploring New Zealand as a solo traveler is suitable for foodies, city slickers, and wine connoisseurs, but it’s most exciting for outdoor adventurers. There aren’t too many countries where you would feel safe enough to hike a volcanic peak, soak in hot springs, and dine out alone.

Hopefully, this article has equipped you with the basics to prepare for and plan a trip to New Zealand. If you’re looking for a sign to pack your bag and head south for a solo adventure – This is IT! 

Darren Griffiths

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The Best New Zealand Itinerary for Solo Travellers

• December 20, 2022 June 19, 2023

Best New Zealand Itinerary for Solo Travellers:

Solo travelling New Zealand: Coach, C ar or Campervan? Stop 1: Auckland Stop 2: Bay of Islands Stop 3: Waitomo Caves Stop 4: Hot Water Beach Stop 5: Mount Maunganui Stop 6: Rotorua Stop 7: Lake Taupo Stop 8: Tongariro Alpine Crossing Stop 9: Wellington Stop 10: Christchurch Stop 11: Lake Tekapo Stop 12: Queenstown Stop 13: Lake Wanaka Stop 14: Franz Josef Glacier

If you want to travel New Zealand solo, you don’t need to pay thousands of dollars for an expensive solo package trip.

This New Zealand itinerary for solo travellers will tell you the best places to stay to meet new people, how to find cheap group activities and how to have the most epic NZ trip solo.

How to Get Around New Zealand as a Solo Traveller

New zealand coach travel for solo travellers.

Coach travel is probably the most budget-friendly way to complete your solo trip around New Zealand.

If you don’t want to drive during your solo itinerary, InterCity coach service offers transport to basically all of the major tourist spots in the country.

You don’t have to buy tickets for specific coach routes either, instead you buy journey hours on a FlexiPass and you can top up as you go.

You can buy up to 80 hours of travel, which would get you up and down the length of the country for $641 dollars.

If you’re just visiting one of the islands or doing a shorter trip, you could choose between 20-70 hours of travel.

For solo travellers, using coach travel can be the most economical choice, especially given the current global fuel prices.

Car Hire in New Zealand for Solo Travellers

Hiring a car to drive around New Zealand is an exhilarating experience.

Driving is relatively easy in New Zealand (as long as you’re comfortable driving on the left!), and it’s a great way to check out spots that are off the beaten track.

If you feel comfortable driving long distances on your own, then car hire may be a good option for your solo itinerary.

For car hire I can recommend Jucy Rentals , who offer cheap car rentals and have various drop off locations on both North and South Island.

This means if you don’t want to drive back to Auckland after your solo road trip, you can drop off the car in Queenstown or Christchurch.

I’ve used Jucy both in New Zealand and Australia and was really impressed with the customer service and quality of the vehicles for reasonable prices.

New Zealand Campervan Hire for Solo Travellers

When solo travelling I personally prefer to stay in hostels as it’s the best way to meet new people and socialise.

However, if you do want to do complete your New Zealand solo traveller itinerary in a campervan, then you will have an amazing time.

In spring and summer, many of the free camping spots are full of backpackers so you will still have an opportunity to meet new people on the road.

For solo campervan hire in New Zealand, I would again chose Jucy Rentals .

The iconic bright green and purple campervans are always a good conversation starter, and it’s an unspoken rule that you have to wave at all fellow Jucy vans on the highway!

Stop 1: Auckland

It’s most likely that you’ll fly into Auckland, given that it’s the biggest international airport.

Auckland is a brilliant place to start your solo New Zealand itinerary, offering great opportunities to meet people and organise your transport around the country.

The best place to stay in Auckland for solo travellers is Haka Lodge, where you can choose between dorms or private rooms.

At Haka Lodge, you’ll be able to meet like-minded travellers who are also most likely at the beginning of their Kiwi adventure.

If you only have a short time in Auckland before commencing your solo New Zealand roadtrip, I can highly recommend doing an Auckland Walking Tour with an expert local guide , a Discover Auckland Scenic Discovery Tour or an Auckland Food Walking Tour .

Whilst in Auckland, don’t miss Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Sky Tower and Auckland War Memorial Museum .

Stop 2: Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands is a cluster of 140 subtropical islands on the east coast of the country.

It’s famous for pristine waters, unspoilt beaches and marine life.

Bay of Islands is also a great place to visit as a solo traveller, with a couple of chilled out beach hostels to stay at.

As a solo traveller I would choose to stay in Paihia, a relaxed coastal town known as the gateway to the Bay of Islands.

Haka Lodge Paihia is a brilliant backpackers hostel right on the beach, with paddleboards and kayaks available to hire.

Some of the islands can only be accessed by boat, so you may want to do a Bay of Islands Boat Tour to discover marine life, snorkel, SUP and sunbathe with your tour group.

Bay of Islands is also the place for thrill-seekers to do one of the highest skydives in New Zealand (20,000 ft).

Whilst in the Paihia, definitely check out the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (a preserved site where the first accord between the British and the Māori was signed).

Stop 3: Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves is a famous extensive underground cave system full of glow worms.

It’s one of the most unique experiences in New Zealand and tourists come from all over the world to experience the magical glow worm caves for themselves.

Whether you want to do a Glowworm Caving Adventure , a Black Water Rafting Experience , or a Budget-Friendly Boat Tour , there are plenty of group tours available so you can enjoy this experience with others.

For the best accommodation for solo travellers near Waitomo Caves, I can highly recommend YHA Waitomo Juno Hall .

The youth hostel is just down the road from the Waitomo Caves and has an outdoor pool and fab BBQ/ communal areas to enjoy the warm summer evenings with new friends.

Stop 4: Hot Water Beach

The Coromandel Peninsula is known for it’s pristine aquamarine water and laid back holiday vibes, as well as the famous Hot Water Beach.

The best place for solo travellers to stay on the Coromandel Peninsula is Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park .

Here you can opt for a mixed dorm in a cosy cabin or choose a private glamping pod/ room.

The super clean communal kitchen is a great place to make friends, and get a group together to dig for hot water on the nearby popular beach.

Due to a natural phenomenon where hot springs run underneath the sand, at certain times of the day you can grab a shovel and dig a hole in the sand that will fill with thermal water.

The water is only hot for 2 hours either side of low tide (make sure you check the low tide times and plan your trip accordingly).

Look for the small rocks sticking out of the sea and dig in front of them, because this is where the hot water is found.

You don’t need to bring your own shovels, you can rent them for a couple of dollars from the café near the beach.

Whilst you’re on the Coromandel, don’t miss the epic Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour in the clear aquamarine water, along with the stunning cliffs of Cooks Beach .

Stop 5: Mount Maunganui

The next stop is a laid back surf town with great nightlife.

Mount Maunganui is an extinct volcano by the ocean, and it’s one of New Zealand’s Best Short Hikes .

Below the volcano you’ll find Main Beach , which is popular with surfers and suitable for beginners.

The best place for solo travellers to stay in Mount Maunganui is Mount Backpackers .

Found just round the corner from the beach, the sociable hostel offers group home-cooked dinners and surfboard/ wetsuit hire.

You’ll also find fellow travellers at the hostel to party with (don’t miss Voodoo Lounge and Palace Tavern).

Stop 6: Rotorua

Rotorua is famous for geothermal activity, and it’s also the best place in New Zealand to learn about Māori culture.

The buzzing town is a great place for solo travellers to base themselves for a few days, with opportunities to do cool group activities.

Rotorua is the best place to do white water rafting in New Zealand, with the nearby Kaituna River being home to the highest rafted waterfall in the world .

This adrenaline-filled activity is a brilliant way to make friends with fellow thrill-seekers.

In terms of accommodation for solo travellers, Rock Solid Backpackers is the best place to stay.

It’s found on Eat Street, Rotorua’s iconic street filled with eateries, bars and a nightclub, meaning it’s a really sociable spot to enjoy with new friends (try and plan your trip around the Thursday Rotorua Night Market for amazing street food).

At the hostel, get a group of backpackers together and drive out to the free thermal attractions around Rotorua, such as Kerosene Creek natural hot spring and Waiotapu Mud Pool .

For authentic cultural experiences in Rotorua, check out Te Puia (home to the impressive Pōhutu geyser) and Mitai Living Maori Village .

Other cool activities to do in Rotorua include the Ziplining Forest Adventure in the Redwood Forest and the Rotorua Luge .

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, you should also do a day trip to The Hobbiton Movie Set from Rotorua (it’s only an hour away by car).

Stop 7: Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in the country, and a must-stop destination on your New Zealand itinerary for solo travellers.

Solo travellers should check into Finlay Jack’s Backpackers , a really cool hostel with free morning yoga, group BBQs and even backyard gigs in the summer.

Other sociable backpacker hostels around Lake Taupo include Haka Lodge Taupo and Rainbow Lodge Backpackers.

After making some new mates in your hostel, get a group together and check out Huka Falls , New Zealand’s famous waterfall that drains a quarter of a million litres of water per second from the lake.

Fellow adrenaline junkies at your hostel may enjoy a group trip on the thrilling Huka Jet , whilst those who love a good stomp will be challenged by Mt Tauhara .

Want to learn more about māori history in Taupo? Why not join a boat trip out to the Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay (it’s really cheap!).

Stop 8: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the most famous attractions in New Zealand, and it’s easy for solo travellers to find fellow hikers to tackle it with.

The hike through Mordor in Tongariro National Park is a must-do for any Lord of the Rings fan, with a chance to get up close to Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom).

All you need to do is check into the YHA National Park Backpackers , who offer shuttle buses to and from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing every day (during high season).

Hiking solo can be dangerous in New Zealand, but YHA National Park Backpackers takes away that worry by offering group shuttles to hostel guests.

There is also a climbing wall at the hostel, with guests offered equipment hire at a discounted rate.

Prefer to do a guided trek of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing ? This highly rated guided trek includes transfers from National Park Village where the YHA is located.

Stop 9: Wellington

The capital city is a fantastic stop on the New Zealand itinerary for solo travellers.

The Marion Hostel is the best hostel in Wellington – it has been beautifully refurbished to add a little luxury to the backpacker experience (and it has a sociable roof terrace).

Whilst in Wellington definitely check out Te Papa Museum of New Zealand , which is free entry and has brilliant exhibitions.

With your new travel mates from the hostel, take a stroll up to Mount Victoria Lookout at sunset for great views over the city and the waterfront.

For those wanting to experience some of Wellington’s nightlife, don’t miss Cuba St for a buzzing atmosphere.

Stop 10: Christchurch

Christchurch is the biggest city on New Zealand’s South Island and a cool place to check out for a day or two.

Solo travellers should stay at The Old Countryhouse , a friendly hostel with a social atmosphere near the city centre.

Whilst in Christchurch, don’t miss the vibey Riverside Market and the colourful New Regent Street for great bars and cafés.

Christchurch also has lots of English heritage that can be enjoyed by strolling along the River Avon, and don’t miss the old vintage trams rumbling through the city.

Stop 11: Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is stunning spot in the heart of South Island that solo travellers will love.

YHA Lake Tekapo is a great sociable spot to stay for solo travellers, with a common area overlooking the lake.

Whilst in Lake Tekapo don’t miss Mt John Summit Circuit Track for panoramic lake views and the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise.

Whilst here the friendly staff will help you to organise a trip to Mount Cook via Lake Pukaki , which I would highly recommend for epic scenery.

Stop 12: Queenstown

And now we get to the pearl of South Island, the lakeside paradise of Queenstown.

Queenstown is probably one of the best spots in New Zealand for solo travellers, with loads of activities and tours available.

Solo travellers should stay at Adventure Queenstown Hostel , found just a block from the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

The budget-friendly hostel offers hostel-run events and activities 7 nights a week, along with a roof terrace with views of The Remarkables mountain range.

With your new hostel friends why not go bungee jumping off Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge or do a 85km/hour jet boat ride through the Shotover River Canyons .

If a group of you enjoy hiking you can tackle Queenstown Hill ( don’t be fooled – it’s actually a small mountain ) or the even more challenging Ben Lomond .

Heading up the Skyline Gondola is a bit of a rite of passage in Queenstown (it’s one of the best viewpoints in New Zealand ), but adrenaline-junkies might prefer the Queenstown Zipline Adventure for even better views.

Food-enthusiasts should try the cult burgers at Fergburger and authentic Mexican at Margo’s Queenstown .

A sunset drink at Perky’s Floating Bar is obligatory, whilst party animals won’t be disappointed by Queenstown’s après-ski style nightlife.

If you can get a group together at the hostel, you should spend a day driving out to Glenorchy and Arrowtown, two beautiful heritage towns just outside of Queenstown.

Queenstown is also the perfect base for solo travellers to do a day trip to the famous Milford Sound, I would recommend the Milford Sound Day Tour from Queenstown .

Stop 13: Lake Wanaka

Lake Wanaka is another of the South Island’s famous lakes.

Solo travellers should stay at Wanaka Bakpaka Hostel , a lakeside 1920s hunting lodge with amazing views over the glacial waters.

You can’t visit Wanaka without checking out #ThatWanakaTree , a willow tree sticking out of the water towards the southern end of the lake.

A group of you from the hostel may want to tackle the legendary Roy’s Peak , or bathe in the Blue Pools of Mount Aspiring National Park.

Wanaka is a small town, but it still has some cool spots for a drink. Don’t miss Cork Bar and b.social , or Ground Up Brewing and Rhyme X Reason Brewery for local craft beer.

Stop 14: Franz Josef Glacier

The next stop on your New Zealand itinerary for solo travellers is the ‘ Wild West Coast ‘.

Known as Glacier Country, Franz Josef Glacier is found on the other side of the Southern Alps to Mount Cook, yet the landscapes are so different.

Solo travellers visiting Franz Josef Glacier should stay at Glow Worm Accommodation , a chilled backpackers hostel with a hot tub and free breakfast, as well as free soup in the evenings and unlimited popcorn.

On a clear day you can see Franz Josef Glacier from the kitchen, and you’ll be able to get a group together to hike up to the glacier observation deck .

I hope you enjoyed this New Zealand itinerary for solo travellers. Don’t miss the best viewpoints in New Zealand too!

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling Solo in New Zealand

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Solo Travel , New Zealand , Oceania | 32

It’s no secret that Aotearoa New Zealand or ‘land of the long white cloud’ is a top backpacking destination. A land full of adventure, it’s home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural sights in the world and the people are warm and friendly.  Travelling solo in New Zealand should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s one of the safest countries for solo female travellers and first-timers and there’s something for everyone whether you’re a film buff, adventure junkie or backpacker. 

If you’re planning your solo travel itinerary for New Zealand, knowing a few tricks of the trade can be invaluable to getting the most out of your experience. Here’s my complete New Zealand travel guide for solo travellers. 

Some quick facts to get started: 

• Wellington is the southernmost capital in the world. 
•  New Zealand’s national animal is the kiwi, a small flightless bird. It’s a nocturnal creature that lays an egg six times the normal size of a bird of its size. 
• New Zealand is the filming location for the Lord of the Rings franchise. You can still visit Hobbiton today. 
• New Zealand was the first country in the world to give women the right to vote (1893). 
• The Maori were the first people to discover New Zealand. It is believed that the Maori explorer, Kupe, sailed across the Pacific ocean in his canoe from his ancestral homeland in Polynesia and landed in New Zealand about 1,000 years ago. 
• The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman was the first European to discover New Zealand in 1642. 
• Bats are the only mammals native to New Zealand. The rest of them were brought over by the Maori and Europeans. 
• Baldwin Street in Dunedin is the steepest street in the world with a gradient of 34.8%. 
• Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world.  
• New Zealand has more sheep than people. There are in fact 5.6 sheep for every person.
• The currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD). 

A brief guide to visa requirements 

It’s important to make sure you’ve got everything you need before entering New Zealand. If you’re planning a solo trip to New Zealand, the first things you’ll need to do is: 

• Decide how long you want to go for. 
• Check that your passport is valid up until at least 3 months after your departure date (I would make it 6 to be on the safe side). 
• Decide if you want to pick up any work. 
• Check if you’re a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement or if you need to apply for a visitor visa. 

If you’re just planning to go on holiday and you’re an Australian or New Zealand resident or citizen, a UK citizen/passport holder (stay up to 6 months) or a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement (stay up to 3 months) then you don’t need a visa. If you don’t fit any of these categories then you will need to apply for a visitor visa . See if you have a visa waiver here. 

If you are a citizen from a country with a visa waiver agreement then you need to request an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)  before your arrival. You might also need to pay for an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Visit Immigration New Zealand for more information. 

If you want to pick up a bit of casual work and you’re between the ages of 18-30 (18-35 from select countries) then you can apply for a working holiday visa. You can work and travel for up to 12 months (23 months if you’re from the UK). To qualify, you need to have a return ticket or enough money for one, and to primarily want to travel rather than work. You can apply online here.  

Sustainable travel in New Zealand 

New Zealanders are fiercely protective of their environment. You will first notice this when you’re given a passenger arrival card to fill out on your flight asking you to state what you will bring into the country. 

All fresh food products must be thrown away or consumed before you reach border security otherwise you could face a fine. Equipment such as hiking gear will be rigorously checked. This strict level of biosecurity is to protect the country from invading pests and diseases. 

New Zealand is also one of the world leaders in sustainable tourism . The country has set out a goal to see every New Zealand tourism business committed to sustainability by 2025. In a nutshell, this initiative aims to have an economically sustainable tourism industry that supports host communities and protects and restores the natural environment. 

If you’re travelling solo in New Zealand you can play your part in helping them reach their goal. Here’s how you can help: 

• Stay at eco-friendly campsites and hostels. 
• Join responsible tours that give back to the community. 
• Visit and support reserves and eco sanctuaries. 
• Reduce your single-use plastic waste with these packing tips.  
• Recycle your waste wherever you can. 
• Take care of the environment when you’re out in nature – leave only footprints. 
• Support local businesses. 

Is New Zealand safe for solo travellers? 

New Zealand is one of the best destinations you can visit if you’re planning to travel solo. It’s easy to get around, relatively small and has a well-built tourism industry that brings travellers from all over the globe. It’s also a top destination for solo female travellers and first-timers. 

As with anywhere else in the world, it’s a good idea to practice the same amount of safety as you would at home. Don’t flash the cash, try not to be out alone late at night, update your loved ones on your whereabouts regularly and always trust your gut. 

As always, make sure you buy travel insurance to cover your trip so you’re protected no matter what. You’ve got a lot to choose from out there, but this one is my particular favourite. I’ve used them multiple times and I love them because they’re so affordable. 

Travelling solo in New Zealand: Budget 

It’s no secret that New Zealand is an expensive country to visit and it doesn’t help that it has a wealth of exciting activities to choose from. If you’re travelling solo in New Zealand and want to stick to a budget, it’s a good idea to plan your activities before you get there to save yourself from disappointment.

As a solo traveller, you don’t have the luxury of splitting costs with someone else. It’s important to find a balance between spontaneity and budgeting so you can do the things you’ve always wanted to do – and also eat. 

New Zealand is known for its adventure and outdoor activities. In fact, they’ll most likely be your biggest expense to budget for. You could be spending somewhere between $0 NZD to $600 NZD with some of the most expensive activities being bungy jumps, skydives and heli hikes. Of course, you can make your trip to New Zealand as cheap or as expensive as you want – part of the beauty of solo travel is that your itinerary is yours alone. 

Your next biggest expense will be travel and accommodation. Food is another expense which can add up if you’re not careful. Eating out in New Zealand is generally quite expensive and you can expect to pay anywhere between $30 to $40 NZD per person for a meal with a drink and table service. 

If you want to keep things cheap, opt for accommodation with access to a kitchen and save restaurants for an occasional treat. Eating out is one of those love/hate consequences of solo travel. Some people savour eating alone whereas others find it awkward. 

If you do end up cooking for yourself, the supermarkets to look out for include: 

• Pak ‘n’ Save

Getting around New Zealand 

There are multiple ways to get around New Zealand if you’re travelling solo. If you plan to cover a lot of ground you can: 

Join backpacking tours

One of the best ways solo travellers can travel around New Zealand is with backpacking tours. They’re relatively cheap, efficient and hassle-free. You also have the added bonus of meeting like-minded travellers along the way. Both Kiwi Experience and Stray are decent choices. Transport is covered for the duration of your tour and you can get discounts on some of the destination’s top activities. You can read my review of Kiwi Experience here. 

Take the bus

If you prefer to be a bit more DIY on your trip then you can take the InterCity bus. It’s relatively affordable and stops in most cities and towns across the country. The one thing to remember is that if you’re aiming to go cheap then you should buy your tickets and passes in advance. As a result, you can lose a little bit of your flexibility. 

Hire a campervan or car

If you fancy a trip on the big open road then hire a campervan or car. There are plenty of hostels you can stop off at on your journey or you can make use of the campsites. You can arrange rentals from: 

• Travellers Autobarn 

Where to Stay 

New Zealand is very accommodating for backpackers and solo travellers. There are some great AirBnBs and hotels but if you’re travelling solo then I recommend staying in hostels. You’re always surrounded by like-minded people and any moment of loneliness (which will happen) can be overturned by chatting to your roomies or hanging out in the communal area. 

Hostels are ideal hubs for solo travellers to connect and most of them offer dorms to suit your preference, including female-only, fewer beds and private rooms. 

Use Booking.com or Hostelworld to find the best rooms and rates. You can usually get reasonably priced hostels but if you want a bit of comfort and security don’t go for the cheapest options. When it comes to booking a hostel, reviews are your best friends.  

Things to do in New Zealand

Here are some of the top activities for your New Zealand solo travel itinerary: 

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is located in the area known as Fiordland National Park on the west coast of the South Island. It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also one of the wettest places on Earth, raining about 182 days in the year. Milford Sound is also home to the world’s only alpine parrot – the kea. This cheeky little bird can often be found nibbling the rubber off parked cars. 

Bungy Jumping

New Zealand’s bungy jumps are legendary. If you want to test your mettle, have a go at the Nevis Bungy in Queenstown. At 134 metres, it’s the biggest bungy in New Zealand and the third highest in the world. it’s not cheap though and the price will set you back about $195 NZD. If you want to try something smaller, there are bungy jumps all over New Zealand, including Taupo, Auckland and Rotorua. 

Tamaki Maori Village 

Tamaki Maori Village is located near Rotorua on the North Island. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn about Maori culture and history. Visitors are treated to cultural performances, stories and games. Afterwards, you can join your hosts in a sitdown dinner consisting of a traditional ‘hangi’ (meat and vegetables cooked in the ground – it’s delicious!). Dietary options are also available. Visits cost about $120 NZD per person or you can take it a step further and stay the night for £215 NZD. 

Skydiving is another popular activity in New Zealand and there are some seriously beautiful ones if you’re brave enough. Top sites include Abel Tasman , Bay of Islands, Fox Glacier and Queenstown. Skydiving doesn’t come cheap though. Depending on the altitude you choose, it can cost $300 to $550 NZD. 

Heli Hike on Franz Josef

If you’ve ever wanted to walk on top of a glacier then the Heli Hike on Franz Josef is a must. You get kitted out and whisked up in a helicopter to the top of the Franz Josef glacier where you will embark on a guided hike across the surface, stopping for photos in stunning blue crevasses. You can expect to pay $485 NZD for the trip. 

Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or not, Hobbiton is one of the top things to do in New Zealand. Located on the North Island, Hobbiton is an exact replica of the movie set. Step inside the Shire and take a tour around the charming village before finishing off with a free pint at the Green Dragon pub. Tours cost between $75 to $195 NZD depending on which one you choose. 

Queenstown 

Queenstown is a resort town on the South Island. Popular with adventure-seekers, it has a range of outdoor activities, including bungy jumping, white water rafting skydiving, Shotover jetting and skiing in the winter. Queenstown has a big backpacker scene with top nightlife and an amazing selection of restaurants and hostels. Don’t miss Fergburger – it serves some of the best burgers in the country and often has queues around the block. 

Waitomo Glowworm caves 

It’s not for nothing that the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a bucket list attraction in New Zealand. Located on the North Island, the caves are home to a glowworm species found only in New Zealand. In the pitch black of the caves, they shine like stars in a galaxy. There are several different tours to choose from ranging from a gentle boat ride to black water rafting. Prices start from $55 to $254 NZD. 

Abel Tasman National Park 

Abel Tasman National Park is a stunning wilderness reserve in the north of the South Island. It’s known for its golden sandy beaches and lush greenery. Here you can find fur seal colonies, blue penguins and even bottlenose dolphins. Follow the Coast Track to see the reserve in all its glory. 

Bay of Islands 

A lot of travellers land in Auckland and head down, missing the Bay of Islands entirely. Don’t! The Bay of Islands is an enclave with a total of 144 subtropical islands known for its stunning beaches and Maori history. You can explore the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, snorkel, dive and cruise through the islands. If you want to go further still, head to Cape Reinga for sandboarding, a walk along 90-Mile Beach and to see where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean. You can read my three-day itinerary here!

Cathedral Cove 

Cathedral Cove is located in the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve on the Coromandel Peninsula. Accessible on foot, kayak or boat, Cathedral Cove is a breathtaking beach bisected by a rocky archway which you can walk under. Known for being featured in the Chronicles of Narnia, it’s a site of outstanding natural beauty. 

Tongariro Alpine Crossing 

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s most popular day hikes. The tramping track located in the Tongariro National Park takes you past what Lord of the Rings fans will know as Mount Doom. The National Park is the oldest national park and dual World Heritage Site in New Zealand. Among its otherworldly natural beauty, it’s famous for its twin blue and emerald lakes. If you’re going in winter it’s best to do this hike with a guide. 

Wellington 

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. Situated on the coast of the Cook Strait, it’s a vibrant city full of colour and culture. Explore the Te Papa Museum for free; wander up Mount Victoria for panoramic views; walk or take the red cable car up to the Botanic Gardens ; visit the Weta Cave special effects studio and walk along the harbour. You can take the ferry across to the South Island from here too. 

Dolphin and whale watching 

Kaikoura is the place to be if you want to go whale and dolphin watching. This coastal town on the South Island is known for its abundant marine life including its fur seal colonies, sperm whale population and dusky dolphins. You can take a boat trip out to see sperm whales for about $150 NZD. You can also watch or swim with dolphins . Prices range from $95 to $180 NZD. 

TranzAlpine train 

New Zealand’s South Island boasts one of the world’s greatest train journeys – the TranzAlpine . Starting from Christchurch the journey covers 139 miles through mountainous terrain and past alpine lakes before descending down into the wetlands of Otira Valley and arriving at Greymouth. The journey takes 5 hours and tickets start from $119 NZD.   

Wine tour on Waiheke Island 

Waiheke Island is known for its picturesque vineyards that almost make you think you’re in Southern Europe rather than New Zealand. Reachable by ferry from Auckland, you can spend the day there exploring the town, hiking or doing wine tours. It’s no secret that New Zealand is one of the best wine producers in the world and Waiheke’s vineyards are no exception. Wine tours are approximately $135 NZD. 

What are the seasons like in New Zealand?  

New Zealand has a temperate climate. It has all four seasons with warm summers and cool winters. Situated in the Southern Hemisphere, its winter is from June to August and summer is from December to February. If you’re travelling solo in New Zealand, the best time to go really depends on what you’re most interested in. 

Most of New Zealand’s adventure and outdoor activities rely on good weather. The majority of them do still run during the winter but the weather can be more unpredictable. If you enjoy hiking then the shoulder and summer months are better because the weather is clearer and you don’t have to worry about snowfall. However, summer is peak season in New Zealand which means more tourists and more expensive activities and accommodation.

Winter is still an awesome time to visit and if you love snow sports then the ski resorts are in full swing from May to September. You also have cheaper rates and there are fewer tourists. Choose the season that works for you and you can’t go wrong. 

New Zealand packing essentials 

New Zealand is known for getting all types of weather in one day so pack a good selection of warm and light clothing which you can layer up – even in summer. I’ve included a sustainable packing list below which covers all your New Zealand essentials. You’ll need to add your own clothes and toiletries but if you find it useful you can print it out. If you want a more in-depth sustainable packing list you can get a free download when you subscribe to my newsletter!

Save it for later!

WiFi in New Zealand

WiFi is a bit hit and miss in some areas of New Zealand and that includes hostels. Most hostels do have WiFi but if you want the luxury of accessing it in your room then you will need to pay for it. 

Whatever your style, staying connected is important if you’re a solo traveller. It’s good for safety, navigating, itinerary planning and keeping in touch with friends and family among other things. I recommend buying a travel SIM card when you arrive in New Zealand because then you’re in control. 

It’s worth noting that in some areas, not even a SIM card can save you if there isn’t any mobile reception. In places like these, all you can do is take the rare opportunity to connect with the world around you – and come to terms with your very real social media addiction. 

Travel SIM cards with a range of plans can be picked up from airports, supermarkets, hostels and mobile network companies like Vodafone, Spark and 2degrees. All you need is an unlocked phone and you’re set. Investing in a SIM card is one of my top New Zealand travel tips for solo travellers. 

A brief guide to Maori culture 

Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, or as they call it Aotearoa – land of the long white cloud. It’s believed that they descended from Eastern Polynesians in the South Pacific who settled in New Zealand around 1280. 

In 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, signifying unity between the European settlers and the Maori people. Both William Hobson, New Zealand’s first governor and more than 500 Maori chiefs signed it. Sadly, this didn’t bring about peace as the Maori were under pressure to sell their land to European settlers. In the 1860s war broke out on the North Island between the Maori people and the settlers and much of their land was confiscated.

Today, there are about 775,836 people identifying as Maori in New Zealand. Here are some more quick facts: 

• Maori greet each other by pressing the nose and the forehead together. 
• The Haka is not just a war chant. There’s a Haka for different occasions, including funerals and celebrations. 
• Each Maori tattoo is unique. Known as ‘ta moko’, the traditional art of tattooing is used to showcase a person’s genealogy and social status. 
• Hangi is a traditional Maori dish that is slow-cooked underground. 
• Before European settlers arrived, there was no written language. Instead, history was passed down orally or depicted in carvings. 

Phrases from the Maori language (Te Reo)  

Te Reo is the official language of New Zealand, alongside English and New Zealand Sign Language. Here are some helpful Te Reo phrases: 

Travelling solo in New Zealand: Taking photos

New Zealand has breathtakingly beautiful scenery around every corner and it never gets dull. A good camera is definitely a travel essential for this destination. Naturally, it can be tricky taking pictures of yourself if you’re travelling solo in New Zealand. If you’re constantly the one behind the lens then your photos will look great but they will also lack the personal touch. It could be anyone’s holiday. 

One of my top New Zealand solo travel tips is, get yourself a selfie, a tripod or even do it the old-school way and ask someone to take a photo of you. You might feel a bit awkward at first but it will be worth it for the memories. 

Planning a solo trip to New Zealand? Need some advice? Let me know in the comments or drop me an email!

This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

32 Comments

Did u visit both islands during ur trip?

Yes I did ☺️

Which town left the deepest impression? For me, it was Rotorua. https://wp.me/p1JnVX-lW

Loved Rotorua and exploring the redwood forest! I loved Wellington too

Nice post. Glad you enjoy NZ – it is my home country:) Unfortunately I am not agree with no. 4. The Maori performance is very over rated and it is performance is design special for tourist only and not authentic.

Oh really? Ah well it was nice all the same

Yes, but I moved out since 2010. Look forward to go back again. I was there a couple years back to visit a friends and relatives and it was such a wonderfull feeling to be able to see the beautiful nature. I love to see those pictures:)

I miss New Zealand. It’s such a beautiful country. Love your guide.

Thank you! Me too, so much!

This post has me itching to go back to New Zealand! I only spent a week there and that’s definitely not enough time.

Definitely an excellent reason to go back and see more of it. There’s so much that I missed and I was there for about 2 months!

New Zealand is one of my dream destinations. Hoping to go there with my partner to do a couple weeks road tripping! Thanks for this detailed guide, pinning it for when we finally can do our NZ trip.

Amazing, thank you! New Zealand is perfect for road tripping so you’re going to have so much fun!

Great post! Very informative. I’d like to visit New Zealand in the future.

Thank you! I can’t recommend it enough!

I loved NZ and have been meaning to go back for ages. Thanks for this comprehensive guide, so many amazing places here!! I can’t wait to go back and have pinned this to help me plan the return visit 🙂

This is such a great guide! I’ve never been to New Zealand but it’s very high on my list! I’d love to try the bungee jumping and skydiving whenever I get the chance to go 😁

Thank you! I definitely recommend it, there’s so much fun stuff you can do!

I absolutely love New Zealand! Even though it’s expensive, most of the nature hikes are free. We rented a van in Christchurch with Escape Rentals and their customer service was phenomenal I’ll definitely recommend (It’s the ugly vans full of grafitti). It’s great thorough guide you’ve made 🙂 Thanks!

Thank you! Wow, that sounds absolutely lovely. I also did a lot of hikes there but I would love to go back and do Roy’s Peak.

New Zealand is such a beautiful country. Loved your pictures and the tips!!

Thank you! New Zealand is stunning!

Such an informative post for visiting New Zealand. It has been on my list for awhile. Pinning so I have this guide for when I go. Loved the pictures!

Thank you! It’s definitely worth a visit!

Fantastic post! I honestly thing NZ is one of the most fun places we have ever visited with all those epic mountain views, fantastic (well signed) hikes and really cool wildlife. This post bring up soooo many happy memories!!

Thank you! It’s such a wonderful and friendly place and the views are phenomenal wherever you go.

Great post! I’d love to visit New Zealand one day, but flights are always expensive to get there from the states. One day!

Thank you! They really are and it’s a mission to get to. It’s definitely worth it though and you’ve got Australia and the South Pacific to explore there too!

I’m from New Zealand and can definitely agree with everything you’ve mentioned in this amazing post! It is such an amazing country to travel around and is so safe for solo travellers! You are so right with it being expensive too haha! Such a great read!

Thank you! That means a lot coming from a local 🙂 It’s not the cheapest destination but luckily, it wasn’t too much of a shock for me after living in London!

I have never traveled solo and also never been to New Zealand. So your tips are very helpful in traveling solo. Also New Zealand is a beautiful and safe country, so we can think of solo traveling here.

New Zealand is such a great destination for first-time solo travellers – it was the first place I travelled solo properly!

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Hello, I’m Francesca

My mission is to show you why sustainable travel is empowering, fulfilling and affordable.

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Last Updated on 30/12/2023

Solo Travel In New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide

By Kate S. This guide to traveling alone in New Zealand contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Interested in solo travel in New Zealand , but need help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

New Zealand is known as a land of hobbits, sheep, snow-capped mountains, and turquoise lakes. While it might not have the same backpacker-friendly reputation as Southeast Asia or Europe, New Zealand’s small size and friendly laid-back environment make it an easy and approachable destination for solo travelers. 

Whether you want to hike Mount Tongariro, hit the slopes at Cardrona, or soak in a Rotorua hot spring, there is so much to do here for all types of solo travelers, but especially the adventurous — this is the home of the bungy jump after all!

With so much to do and see, how does someone traveling on their own get the most out of solo travel in New Zealand?

All you need is a willingness to explore and experience new things and a certain level of trust, in yourself and others. Also essential are excellent organizational skills.

Traveling solo in New Zealand is a great way to meet new people, maybe even make lifelong friends, and definitely create some incredible memories.

Keep reading to learn how to plan a safe, fun, and unforgettable trip to New Zealand on your own!

Quick tip: While New Zealand is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Travel Solo In New Zealand With Confidence [Free eCourse]

But first, before we get into our New Zealand solo travel guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn all about solo female travel in New Zealand.

Is New Zealand Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Overall, New Zealand is a very safe and welcoming place for travelers, including solo travelers. In fact, it ranks #2 on the Global Peace Index out of 163 countries!

Women are generally treated very well – NZ was the first country in the world to give women the right to vote – and solo travelers are fairly common in major tourist areas so you won’t stand out.

Public transport is typically very safe to use and crime rates are fairly low.

In the cities, expect to follow the same basic precautions you would anywhere else in the world: avoid waking alone late at night in deserted areas, limit your drinking, and trust your gut.

Where Is New Zealand?

New Zealand is the southernmost country in the world and a long way from basically everywhere. 

In terms of geography, New Zealand is closest to Australia , about 3 hours by plane between the two countries’ capitals. 

New Zealand consists of two main islands, simply called the North Island and South Island. Both have a lot to offer so try to fit both into your solo New Zealand trip if possible.

Getting To New Zealand

Because New Zealand is an island country, the only way to get there is by plane. Auckland Airport is the main airport for the country with the most flight options; however, you can also fly into Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown if coming from Australia.

Getting Around New Zealand As A Solo Traveler

When traveling alone around New Zealand, you can use bus services – which offer the cheapest option – or rent a car or camper van. 

New Zealand by bus

If traveling New Zealand by bus, the Intercity network will be your best bet. They go basically everywhere in New Zealand and the first tickets for each bus are often $1. They also have multi-trip pass options to help you save some dollars.

New Zealand by car

New Zealand by tour company

Another idea for those traveling New Zealand solo is joining a tour group to have all the transport sorted for you. I’ve used G Adventures and Contiki before and rate them both highly. It’s also a great way to make new friends.

Flying around New Zealand

Flights are available between major cities but can be expensive unless booked far in advance. You’ll also miss a lot of New Zealand’s beautiful scenery if you stick to the airline routes.

New Zealand Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map. It has most of the main points and solo activities mentioned in this guide to New Zealand solo female travel:

You can also click here for the interactive version .

Popular Destinations For Solo Travel In New Zealand

Of course, one of the most important aspects of planning a solo trip to New Zealand is deciding where to go. While there are many wonderful places to explore, some top picks for those visiting NZ on their own include:

Auckland is the starting point for most solo holidays in New Zealand because it has the major airport.

It is New Zealand’s biggest city with around 1.5 million people, but it’s not the capital. That would be Wellington (more on this below!).

When in Auckland, you’ll want to visit the iconic Sky Tower for the best views of the city and surrounding coast. If you enjoy adventure travel , you can even try a bungee jump off the edge!

The waterfront precinct sits on the harbor in downtown Auckland, and is a great place to go for walks, do some shopping, and savor some of the best dining in the city.

Here you’ll find Commercial Bay and its upmarket food court, while Britomart — with its lovely cobble-stoned plaza — has more fine dining restaurants and local designer boutiques. Make sure to grab some ice cream from Giapo while you’re there!

If you have time, escape the city with a short ferry trip across to Waiheke Island . The island has some pretty beaches, though it’s most famous for its wineries — some of which you can walk to from the wharf, including Cable Bay and Mudbrick . Tastings are available for free or for a small charge.

For a taste of daily life in Auckland head to Mount Eden , a pretty suburb just south of the city center. Here you can take an easy 30-45-minute walk up the mountain and grab coffee and cake in the village. A flat white is the favorite order of locals in New Zealand!

Auckland Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Auckland . Auckland Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Auckland .

Central North Island

When you travel New Zealand solo, the central North Island region is a must. It’s home to some of the country’s most famous attractions and is definitely a place to spend time on your solo trip. 

There are a few stops you should make while here.

The first is the central Waikato region , which has many  popular attractions , including:

• Hamilton Gardens ,
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves ,
• and the famous Hobbiton Movie Set .

Further south, you’ll find Rotorua , New Zealand’s geothermal town. This is the place to relax with a day spent in the hot pools at the Polynesian Spa . 

Rotorua is also home to a large Māori population – the Indigenous Polynesian people of mainland New Zealand (Aotearoa) – and there are tours available where you can learn about their history and culture and try traditional hangi food.

You can view a list of local cultural tours here .

After Rotorua, keep going south until you reach Tongariro National Park . This is where you can do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , a day trek that is considered one of the best hikes in New Zealand .

If you want a hiking option that’s safe and doable for solo travelers, then this is it. It’s around eight hours, with some serious elevation — though it’s manageable for most fitness levels. To make things easy, you can book a shuttle from your accommodation to the trailhead.

Of course, just make sure to keep a few important solo hiking tips in mind, like staying on designated trails and familiarizing yourself with potential hazards and threats, like certain wildlife, along the way.

Click here for full details on Tongariro Crossing and a trail map .

Rotorua Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Rotorua . Rotorua Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Rotorua .

Solo holidays to New Zealand aren’t complete without a stop in Wellington.

As the nation’s capital, Wellington is a must-see on any New Zealand solo traveler’s itinerary. I lived in the city for six years and can’t speak highly enough of it, especially its foodie culture.

Depending when you’re visiting, you may be able to attend a few Wellington On A Plate Festival events hosted at cafes, bars, and restaurants around town. In the past the festival has taken place in August, though recently it was hosted in May, so join their mailing list to stay in the loop.

Wellingtonians take a lot of pride in their coffee, and the best way to try it is with a tasting flight of black or white coffees at Flight Coffee . Follow that up with a tour of the bean-to-bar chocolate making process at Wellington Chocolate Factory on nearby Leeds Street.

Of the many  things to do in Wellington , the top of the list is a trip to Te Papa , the national museum. Te Papa is free — making it great for solo travelers on a budget — and has tons of exhibits on New Zealand’s history and art.

Make sure to visit Wētā Workshop in the Wellington suburb of Miramar . This is where they make the special effect magic behind movies like Lord of the Rings , Avatar , and Stranger Things . The tour here is fascinating, even if you aren’t a fan of the particular movies.

While you’re in town, spend some time exploring the laneways and the many hidden cafes and bars. I love Hanging Ditch in Hannah’s Laneway for cocktails, while People’s Coffee in Luke’s Lane is perfect for digital nomads . You really never know what you’ll find in Wellington!

Wellington Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Wellington . Wellington Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Wellington .

Nelson-Tasman

If you’re looking for some beach time on your solo holiday to New Zealand then the Nelson-Tasman region is the place to come.

You could say it’s a bit like the Florida of New Zealand in that the weather is often sunny, there are miles of coastline, and lots of retirees.

While you should base yourself in Nelson , it will be a lot easier if you have a car for this part of your trip as the attractions in the area are a bit spread out. While it’s possible to get to most places with local buses and water taxis, it will be difficult. 

The beaches at Golden Bay and Kaiteriteri are some of the most famous and beautiful in New Zealand — with golden sand and clear blue water that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Fortunately, these beaches are typically less crowded than the more easily accessible beaches in Coromandel on the North Island.

Another great way to explore the area is by kayak. The best kayaking in the area is in Abel Tasman National Park , where you can see the famous Split Apple Rock and colonies of seals sunbathing along the shore.

Foodies will love the Tasman’s Great Taste Trail , a collection of wineries, distilleries, historic pubs, and artisan food producers that you can visit by bike (hirable in Nelson), car, or on an organized tour.

Nelson Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Nelson . Nelson Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Nelson .

Queenstown really is the best of New Zealand.

As a New Zealander myself, it’s the place I recommend all travelers visit for an amazing time. It combines phenomenal scenery with loads of fun adventure activities — including some of the best South Island New Zealand hikes — and incredible food and wine.

Queenstown has the world’s first bungee jump, out at Kawerau Bridge Bungy , plus something called the sky swing to keep adrenaline-seekers entertained.

For something slightly less fear-inspiring, there are jet boat rides through the canyons on the Shotover River as well as gondola rides up Ben Lomond Mountain . Afterwards, you can opt to luge or parasail down the mountain.

Otherwise, you can hang out by the lakeside, taking in the spectacular sunsets over The Remarkables Ranges while enjoying some classic kiwi fish and chips.

A short trip out of town takes you into the Gibbston Valley , where the world-renowned Central Otago pinot noirs are made and where you can see the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown .

Queenstown Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Queenstown . Queenstown Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Queenstown .

Tips For Taking A Solo Trip To New Zealand

Alright, so now hopefully you’re starting to get an idea of where you might want to go while traveling solo in New Zealand; however, there are still some important tips you should keep in mind:

Pack light for New Zealand

Your solo travels around New Zealand will be a lot easier if you can keep your baggage as small and light as possible, preferably in a backpack .

Public transport isn’t always easily available, so you may have to walk reasonable distances from the bus stations to your accommodation or just between attractions. Because of this, it’s easiest if you aren’t lugging heavy bags.

Besides, New Zealanders are very casual, so you can get by everywhere with just jeans/shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers. 

Likely, you will want to devote a portion of that precious baggage space to some cold and wet weather gear — especially if you’re planning to do any New Zealand hikes. Proper hiking attire is a must, as the weather in New Zealand can change quickly.

If you need to buy any essentials on the go, department stores like The Warehouse and Kmart have everything you could need at affordable prices.

Expect jet lag

Unless you’re coming from Australia, chances are you’ll have to cross many time zones to get to New Zealand — which means that jet lag is inevitable. 

The trip is hardest coming from the Americas as you’ll have to cross the international date line and lose two days in the process, which is bound to mess up anyone’s body clock.

You can plan for this by picking a flight that comes in at night so you can go straight to your (pre-booked) accommodation and to sleep, hopefully waking up fully adjusted the next morning and ready to explore.

Because of the jet lag, you’ll want to allow yourself time to take it easy for the first few days, rather than jumping right into a jam-packed itinerary. 

Find cheap hotels

If hostels aren’t you’re thing, it is possible to get cheap deals at New Zealand hotels, but you’ll want to book well in advance and avoid holiday weekends. Booking.com typically has the best range of options.

Travelers from Europe and America will notice that New Zealand doesn’t have a lot of the chain hotels you might be used to, especially outside Auckland. So, if you’re into points and hotel loyalty programs then you won’t have much luck.

However, some common chains that typically have reasonable prices include Ibis and Breakfree. 

As a solo traveler in New Zealand, you’ll be safer in hotels and hostels compared to motels — which may look cheaper, but can often be in unsavory areas and may not be staffed overnight.

Consider a working holiday

New Zealand has a long history of travelers on extended stays working to pay for their board and activities. This is most common in Queenstown during the ski season and summer holidays, but can be done in almost any town.

Typically, working holidaymakers will find jobs in hospitality (experienced baristas and bartenders are always in demand), at tourist attractions, or in retail stores. In the bigger towns, these businesses commonly hire “summer casuals” — as in, staff on fixed-term contracts with variable hours — between November and February.

If you’re interested in doing a working holiday, you’ll need to check specific visa requirements. The easiest way to find a job is to drop off CVs around town once you arrive.

Be Careful With Transport

While public transport in New Zealand is usually safe and easy to use, the transportation centers and bus depots are not the kinds of places solo travelers will want to hang out in, especially at night.

To avoid this, try and buy your tickets online in advance and don’t show up earlier than necessary. If you do have a lot of time before your bus, try and wait in a nearby cafe rather than at the station itself.

What Does Solo Travel To New Zealand Cost?

Unfortunately, New Zealand is not a super cheap place to visit; however, if you’re coming from North America, Europe, or the UK then you’ll find that the currency difference helps mitigate the costs.

Some indicative costs (in New Zealand Dollars) are:

• Accommodation: $30-80 per night for a hostel bed or $150+ for a hotel
• Food: $100-150 per person for a week’s worth of groceries, $15 per meal for fast food or $25+ for a café or restaurant meal
• Transport: $10 per day to bus around cities, $20-80 for Intercity buses, $40-200 for one-way domestic flights

There is no tipping in New Zealand and taxes are already included in the prices so whatever you see on the menu or tag is all you have to pay.

Best New Zealand Tours For Solo Travelers

Prefer to join a guided tour on your solo trip in New Zealand? The following group excursions are highly rated and can make it easier to meet other people — which can make traveling New Zealand alone a lot more enjoyable:

• 3 Day Bay Of Islands Tour from Auckland including Waitangi and Cape Reinga
• 2-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves Tour from Auckland with Accommodation
• 5-Day Bay of Islands Rotorua Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Tour from Auckland
• Half-Day Milford Sound Flight and Cruise from Queenstown
• G Adventures Multi-Day New Zealand Tours

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 .

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel In New Zealand

Q) is new zealand good for solo travel.

New Zealand is the perfect place for solo travel! It’s safe and welcoming, and as a small country it’s easy to get around and see a lot in a few weeks.

Q) Is New Zealand safe to travel alone?

New Zealand is a very safe country for traveling alone in. Just make sure to take extra precautions like carrying extra gear when hiking and letting someone know your plans when going into the mountains or bush.

Q) Is it easy to get around New Zealand without a car?

It’s not super easy to get around without a car, but it’s doable if you are willing to be flexible with travel times and endure long-distance buses. There are very few intercity trains in New Zealand and domestic flights are often expensive.

Q) What is the best month to visit New Zealand?

February and November are the best months to visit New Zealand. This is when the weather is warm, but you won’t have to deal with the large crowds and inflated prices that always happen in December and January when New Zealanders typically take summer holidays.

Q) Can you drink the tap water in New Zealand?

Yes, the tap water everywhere in New Zealand is safe to drink.

Final Thoughts On Traveling To New Zealand Alone

If you’re looking to enjoy a solo travel NZ experience, get excited: from outdoor adventures to volcanic landscapes to delicious food and wine, you’re in for a treat.

There are so many incredible places to travel solo in New Zealand, each offering its own unique attractions and activities.

Not only are there many fun things to do in New Zealand, but it’s safe and welcoming, making it easier for travelers to feel confident exploring on their own.

In short, if you’re feeling a pull to book a solo trip to New Zealand, go for it. You won’t regret it!

What tips would you add to this guide on solo travel in New Zealand?

Enjoyed this guide to planning a solo New Zealand trip ? Pin it for later!

About The Author

Kate grew up in New Zealand and now lives in Sydney, Australia. She loves all things travel and has visited 30 countries and counting! When Kate’s not traveling or planning another trip, she can be found out running along the coast or searching for the next hidden gem cafe. You can read her trip guides at  KateAbroad.com .

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The Travel Women

Solo female travel in new zealand: where should you go and is it safe.

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand, voted by you, The Travel Women, as the number one place to visit in 2019 ! Home to a wealth of Māori culture and enough Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film locations to satisfy every movie buff, New Zealand is an outdoor wonderland full of volcanic activity you can visit — think long, luxurious soaks in hot pools after epic hikes to some of the most Instagrammable places on Earth — gorgeous snow-capped mountains, beautiful beaches, and a burgeoning foodie scene where coffee is king.

There’s truly something for everyone here in Aotearoa (New Zealand’s original Māori name). So, where should you go now that you’ve decided to visit this stunningly beautiful country? Here are 11 places from the tip of the North Island to the bottom of the South Island — favorites of locals, backpackers and luxury travelers alike — to start with.

Table of Contents

1. Auckland

Often mistaken for the country’s capital — spoiler alert: it’s Wellington! — Auckland is located near the top of the North Island, makes a great base for exploring the surrounding locales, and is the ideal starting point of your big Kiwi adventure. A big city by the bay reminiscent of San Francisco, Auckland is home to 48 volcanic cones like Mount Eden and One Tree Hill, which you can easily hike. For a good time, check out the funky nightlife in Ponsonby and along Karangahape Road, also called K Road. Need a break from the city scene? Catch a ferry to Waiheke Island for a piece of island paradise just 40-minutes from downtown.

2. The Coromandel Peninsula

Perhaps one of the most beautiful places in the country — if not on earth — is New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula , where you’ll find Cooks Beach and Shakespeare Cliff, among other scenic points. Stop by Hahei, home to two of the region’s most Instagrammable spots, Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach , where, at two hours before and after low tide, you can dig a hole in the sand and watch as it becomes your own private hot pool thanks to the underlying geothermal hot springs.

Get to know New Zealand’s Māori culture by visiting Whakarewarewa (pronounced “Fa-ka-where-a-where-a”), one of Rotorua’s living Māori villages, where you can tour traditional lands the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people have been living on for generations. Situated along several natural geothermal vents, you’ll get to see how the people living there have used them to cook, see boiling mud and geysers up close, and experience a cultural performance.

Rotorua is also one of the pick-up points for tours of The Hobbiton Movie Set , made famous by Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, where you’ll be able to walk the hilly roads of the Shire, have your photo taken in front of a Hobbit house, hear behind-the-scenes stories about how the movies were made, and have a drink of specially made craft beer at The Green Dragon Inn, a whimsical pub featured in the films.

4. Lake Taupo

Pronounced “Toe Paw,” this little lake town surrounded by active volcanoes is a beautiful spot for a break, a fact helped by the presence of its natural (and free!) geothermal hot pools, coming to you courtesy of Otumuheke Stream , an offshoot of the mighty Waikato River you’ll find in Spa Thermal Park. While you’re there, do as the locals do: soak in the hot pools, then jump into the freezing cold river waters. Taupo is also a good place to find shuttles to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , a legendary 12-mile (19.4 km) trek up, over and across several of the area’s largest active volcanoes that’ll give you bragging rights for life.

5. The Hawkes Bay Wine Region

New Zealand is famous for many things, chief among them Lord of the Rings, Flight of the Conchords, and its many wine regions . With a year-round maritime climate similar to Bordeaux, France, the Hawkes Bay area has made itself known as the country’s oldest and second-largest of the wine regions, specializing in Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes, as well as Chardonnay, since 1851. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a girls weekend full of wine and beautiful natural surroundings, check out the Wine Trail , featuring 72 wineries in and around the nearby towns of Napier and Hastings.

6. Wellington

Welcome to “Wellywood,” home to WETA Cave , Peter Jackson’s production studio, where you can take a behind-the-scenes tour or pose for photos with the larger-than-life troll sculptures lurking outside the gift shop. Movie buffs and Tolkien fans can also choose from a number of half- and full-day tours of the various Lord of the Rings film locations in and around Wellington, including Mount Victoria and Kaitoke Regional Park, where the “Rivendell” scenes were shot. Of course, there’s plenty to do back in town — take a ride up to the Botanic Gardens on the historic Wellington Cable Car , check out New Zealand’s wildlife at Zealandia , or visit one of the city’s free museums, like Te Papa Tongarewa and the Wellington Museum . Don’t forget to check out Cuba Street and Courtenay Place, home to the city’s nightlife and burgeoning foodie scene where bad coffee simply doesn’t exist.

7. Tasman National Park

Congratulations, you’ve officially made it to New Zealand’s South Island! Situated along the northern coast, Tasman National Park may be the country’s smallest but it’s certainly among the most popular — 250,000 people make the trip every year and it was even deemed worthy of a royal visit by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018. Follow the famous track along the coast or go beach hopping by water taxi if you feel so inclined. Whichever way you choose to explore this beautiful corner of the country, you’re bound to love it.

8. Christchurch

There’s a lot going on in Christchurch, arguably the most resilient city in the country following a series of catastrophic earthquakes in 2010, 2011 and 2016 that the area is still visibly recovering from — stop by Cathedral Square to see the ruins or learn about the area’s history of natural disasters at Quake City . Visit the Canterbury Museum and the Centre of Contemporary Art , both free, and enjoy a rich foodie scene full of great restaurants, bars, Asian-inspired Hawker Centres , and coffee shops along New Regent and Victoria Streets. The city’s also a great base for exploring some of the region’s other attractions like Hanmer Springs and Akaroa — where you can visit The Giant’s House , a bed and breakfast full of colorful creations inspired by Gaudí and Miró — all about a two-hour drive from the city center.

9. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo

Home to New Zealand’s highest mountain and one of the most sacred sites for the Māori people, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is the perfect place to get away from it all, with alpine tramping tracks and a popular historic hotel built in 1884, all a four-hour drive from Christchurch or a three-hour drive from Queenstown. Just an hour’s drive from there, you’ll find Lake Tekapo, a lakeside tourist mecca for anyone interested in stargazing, soaking in hot springs , snow tubing during the winter, and hiking through the gorgeous alpine wilderness.

10. Queenstown

Calling all adrenaline junkies: this part of New Zealand is famous for its high-flying adventure sports, so if you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at bungy jumping, canyon swinging — yes, you can literally swing between the walls of a canyon on The Swing, if you’re brave enough — river rafting, river surfing, or jet boat riding, look no further. Of course, this part of New Zealand is also known for its luxury ski resorts, epic gondola and luge rides , and as being the gateway to Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, and the Milford Sound , all of which you can easily work in as a day trip if you’re short on time. Don’t forget to bring your camera and a warm, waterproof jacket, as these parts truly do experience four seasons in a day.

Known as being a more relaxed version of Queenstown, Wanaka offers many of the same perks — access to the area’s super-luxe ski resorts, abundant natural scenery, and plenty of Instagrammable sites like # ThatWanakaTree — all while being located just off the main tourist track about an hour away from all the action in Queenstown. Most people make the pilgrimage to this part of New Zealand for a photo of Roys Peak , the highlight of an epic five-to-seven-hour hike (round-trip) full of amazing views of Lake Wanaka, the Southern Alps, and Mount Aspiring. Choose from the 1.5-hour beginner-level walk or the intermediate-level four-hour adventure and keep in mind that special hiking equipment like crampons and an ice axe might be necessary if you’re making the trek in winter.

A Word About Safety

New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers to visit, although it did make news back in March when an Australian terrorist killed 51 people whose only crime was attending Friday Prayer at Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Islamic Centre in Christchurch. Following the worst shooting in the country’s history, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern led the charge for gun control reform and six days later, military style semi-automatics and assault weapons were banned ; within a month, that ban became law .

“The terrorist attack in Christchurch was a single, tragic but highly unusual event that shocked the entire nation,” said Chris Roberts, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa . “Visitors should have no concerns about visiting New Zealand, and Christchurch in particular. They will experience warm and welcoming communities, the unique Māori culture, and a huge range of activities and experiences in both our cities and wilderness areas.”

Roberts went on to mention that security has been increased around the country as a result of the attack, and visitors should take the same precautions they would when visiting other countries and cities around the world.

“While attacks against female travellers are rare, unfortunately they can happen,” said Roberts. “If you’re out at night, keep to well-lit places where other people are present; keep your possessions safe; and if you’re going out into our outdoors, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.”

In other words, New Zealanders are really on top of things and the country is now probably the safest it’s ever been. Come on down and see it for yourself.

What’s your favorite place in New Zealand you want to visit or have visited? Comment below!

Kaeli Conforti is a digital nomad and has been traveling solo around Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand since January 2018. Follow along with her travel adventures on Instagram and KaeliTravels.com .

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2 thoughts on “Solo Female Travel in New Zealand: Where Should You Go and Is It Safe?”

Great article. New Zealand is a must see destination. Lots of good times.

Thank you so much, agreed!

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New Zealand Solo Travel – Adventure Itinerary & Guide (2023)

Climb glaciers and volcanoes, cruise through fjords, soak in natural hot pools and bungee 134m into a raging river – it’s time to plan a classic Kiwi adventure with this ultimate guide to solo travel in New Zealand!

Use my 2-4 week New Zealand solo travel itinerary if you want to hit all the best attractions and natural wonders (plus a few hidden gems).

Plus, I’ve provided a heap of extra information about travelling alone in New Zealand, including; the top 10 things to do and see, accommodation options, transport options, costs, a packing list, safety tips and much more!

New Zealand Solo Travel Itinerary (2-4 Weeks)

• 10 Best Things to Do and See
• Accommodation
• Best Time to Visit New Zealand
• Where to Start
• How Long to Spend Travelling New Zealand
• Cost and Budgeting
• Packing List
• Visas and Entry Requirements
• How to go from New Zealand to Australia
• More solo travel tips

Overview: Solo Travel in New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the best solo travel destinations for both first-timers and experienced travellers . 

People love to travel alone in New Zealand because it is safe and easy to navigate .

Plus, it’s packed from top to bottom with natural wonders , including Milford Sound, Mt Cook, Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, Marlborough Sound, Tongariro National Park, Rotorua and much more.

The most popular solo travel route in New Zealand is from Auckland (North Island) to Christchurch (South Island) (or vice versa). This requires at least 3 weeks to complete.

Travelling alone in New Zealand is particularly popular amongst young people (18-30) (both male and female) thanks to its adventure sports and party-focused tours. However, it’s also popular amongst middle-aged and older solo travellers , who prefer self-driving holidays through the epic landscape.

If you only have 2 weeks to solo travel New Zealand, I would suggest only doing the North Island or the South Island – not both .

But if you have 3 or more weeks to solo travel New Zealand, you will have enough time to do both the North and South Islands .

North Island (2 Weeks)

Auckland (2 nights).

Fly into the international airport in Auckland – the country’s largest city and the perfect starting point for solo travelling New Zealand. 

Known as the City of Sails due to its buzzing harbour, Auckland is a nature-lovers paradise . It’s surrounded by volcanic islands, black-sand beaches, lush rainforests and the shimmering waters of the Hauraki Gulf. 

Want to dive straight into Kiwi culture ? Visit some of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions, including the eye-catching Sky Tower. Afterwards, grab dinner from the food trucks at the Wynyard Quarter waterfront precinct.

Best things to do and see alone in Auckland:

• Visit Waiheke Island ($): Take a 40-minute ferry ride and spend a day visiting the vineyards and art galleries. If wine’s not your thing, explore the 100 km of walking trails and golden beaches like Oneroa and Onetangi.
• Auckland War Memorial and Museum ($$): One of the best museums in New Zealand, learn about the history of the Pacific Islands through their collection of Maori artefacts. 
• Sky Tower ($$): Ascend 186m and enjoy 360-degree views over Auckland and the surrounding islands. Then ride the virtual Skyslide, freefall for 11 seconds off the SkyJump, or walk around the 1.2m wide Skywalk platform.
• Sunset Kayak Tour ($$$): Take a sunset kayak tour across the sea to Rangitoto Island (Auckland’s largest and highest volcano). Keep an eye out for Little Blue Penguins, devour a Kiwi-style BBQ and do some star gazing.

Bay of Islands (1 Night)

A few hours north of Auckland is the beautiful Bay of Islands, a subtropical haven that is host to 144 islands .

Base yourself in the relaxed town of Paihia and venture by boat to visit the famous Hole in the Rock. Alternatively, hire a kayak and paddle out to the golden sands of Urupukapuka Island. 

Then back on land, visit some of New Zealand’s most famous historical sights , including the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the township of Russell.

Best things to do and see alone in the Bay of Islands:

• Visit the town of Russell ($): New Zealand’s first European settlement, walk the historic streets and see Christ Church (the country’s oldest church) before eating at The Duke of Marlborough (the country’s first licensed hotel and bar).
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds ($$): Known as the birthplace of New Zealand, where the Maori People and European Settlers created the country’s founding document in 1840. See the modern museums, war canoes and more.
• Dolphin cruise to the Hole in the Rock ($$$): Take a half-day cruising tour around the Bay of Islands, searching for dolphins and whales, stopping over at an island and getting up close to the famous Hole in the Rock.
• Waipoua Forest ($): If you’ve hired a car or campervan, take a scenic detour via Waipoua Forest. See the Tane Mahuta, a 2,000-year-old tree with a 4.4m diameter (known as the Lord of the Forest).

Coromandel Peninsula (1 Night)

Pass back through Auckland (or stop over for a night) before continuing to the pristine Coromandel Peninsula – a tropical paradise with soft-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Solo travellers who love the sun, sand and surf should spend a few days here.

Kick off your shoes and visit iconic coastal sights like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. 

Then wander the trails through the forest for panoramic views over the peninsula from the Eyefull Tower platform.

Best things to do and see alone in Coromandel:

• Cathedral Cove ($): Take your camera and grab some shots of the massive coastal cavern that has been naturally carved into the edge of the white rock.
• Hot Water Beach ($): This beach is famous because warm spring waters bubble up through the sand. Dig yourself a natural spa bath and soak away as the sun sets.
• Waiau Kauri Grove and Waterfall ($): Take a short walk through a majestic forest of ancient Kauri trees before continuing to a 6m waterfall, where you can take a swim in the rock pool.
• Driving Creek Railway ($$): Ride this historic railway through the forest and over a series of bridges and tunnels before arriving at the Eyefull Tower lookout.

Hamilton (1 Night)

Stop over for a night in one of New Zealand’s hidden gems – Hamilton. 

Set on the banks of the Waikato River , this place has something for both thrill-seekers and chillers.

Get your heart pumping by descending into the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and riding a tube through underground rapids. 

Alternatively, wander the rolling hills of the nearby Hobbiton Village or the five themed areas of the Hamilton Gardens.

Best things to do and see alone in Hamilton:

• Hobbiton Village Movie Set ($$): An hour from Hamilton is the Hobbiton Village, where you can take a 2-hour guided tour of the Hobbit Holes and the Shire Mill before downing some beverages at the Green Dragon Inn (book in advance).
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves and rafting ($$): Take a 1-hour walking and boat ride tour in New Zealand’s largest underground glowworm cave system. Alternatively, go black-water rafting 80m below the Earth’s surface.
• Hamilton Zoo ($): The largest zoo on New Zealand’s North Island is home to an array of exotic and native animals, including giraffes, tigers, rhinos, chimps and kea (the world’s only alpine parrot).
• Hamilton Gardens ($): A 58-hectare area with 5-themed gardens, including New Zealand’s first traditional Maori garden.

Rotorua and Lake Taupo (2 Nights)

You can’t solo travel New Zealand without spending some time at both Rotorua and Lake Taupo .

Rotorua is internationally renowned for its geological wonders , towering forests and adventure sports.

Just an hour down the road is Lake Taupo, which is almost the size of Singapore. Here, water-loving solo travellers can sail to see Maori carvings or jet boat to the thundering Huka Falls .

Best things to do and see alone in Rotorua and Lake Taupo:

• Te Pa Tu ($$$): A traditional Maori village, voted the #7 best attraction in the world (Trip Advisor). Witness the Haka, dine on seasonal cuisine, hear Maori legends, watch performances in the forest amphitheatre and more.
• Geothermal wonders ($$): Visit one of the geothermal parks around Rotorua, including Te Puia, Wai-O-Tapu or Kuirau Park (free). Watch the bubbling mud pools, whirling hot springs and shooting geysers.
• Zorb Rotorua ($$): Jump inside a giant ball and tumble your way down one of the world’s longest, fastest and steepest tracks. The only place in New Zealand where you can zorb.
• Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings ($$): Book a sailing cruise or take a kayak tour to the 14m tall Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings, crafted over 10 years by one man.
• Huka Falls ($): One of New Zealand’s iconic natural sights, where 220,000 litres of lightning-blue water crash over the 11m drop every second. To get amongst the action, take a jet boat ride.
• Spa Thermal Park ($): Soak away in the Otumuheke Stream hot pools for free. Watch the Waikato River pass by whilst bathing in these natural spas.

Tongariro (1 Night)

In the heart of the North Island sits Tongariro National Park – the first National Park in New Zealand and a highlight for adventurous solo travellers.

First opened in 1887, this UNESCO World Heritage site sits between three volcanoes and is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty.

During the summer months, you can enjoy short walks or full-day hikes to volcanic wonders such as the Emerald Lakes, Taranaki Falls, active craters and lava flows.

In the winter months (June-October), solo travellers can shred two of New Zealand’s largest ski resorts – Whakapapa and Turoa.

Best things to do and see alone in Tongariro: 

• Short Walks ($): There are 10 short walks in Tongariro National Park that you can complete in a few hours. The most popular tracks include the Whakapapa Nature Walk (15-minute loop), Tawhai Falls (0.5km return), Ridge Walk (1.2km return) and Taranaki Falls (6km loop).
• Longer Walks ($): The Tongariro Alpine Crossing (19.4km) is one of the best day treks in New Zealand and takes you past the famous Emerald Lakes. The Tama Lakes walk (17km) is slightly shorter and easier. 
• Ski and snowboard ($$$): Whakapapa is a great ski resort for beginners thanks to its Happy Valley training area and a wide array of intermediate trails. Turoa is better for more advanced skiers, offering freeride terrain and New Zealand’s longest vertical.
• Cycle the Old Coach Road ($$): Hire a mountain bike in nearby Ohakune and ride the Old Coach Road (15km one-way), passing over viaducts, through tunnels and admiring the volcanic scenery.

Hawkes Bay (1 Night)

If you’re a food and wine lover , you must include Hawkes Bay on your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

The Hawkes Bay region is internationally renowned for producing some of the world’s best Red Blends and Chardonnay wines .

Base yourself in the trendy Art-Deco city of Napier . From here, you can explore the local vineyards by day and splurge on fine dining by night.

Best things to do and see alone in Hawkes Bay:

• Hawkes Bay Wineries Trail ($$): Hire a push bike and ride the wineries trail (30km), stopping at 9 cellar doors for tastings and a spot of lunch. 
• Historic wineries ($$): Vist Te Mata Estate and Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest barrel hall and winery respectively.
• Cape Kidnappers ($): A half-hour drive from Napier is Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest gannet colony. From the clifftops, watch as 25,000 of these giant birds dive for fish in the ocean below.
• Hike to Te Mata Peak ($): For the best views over the sea and countryside, take one of the seven hiking trails that lead to Te Mata Peak.
• National Aquarium of New Zealand ($$): Located along the Marine Parade, you can explore the underwater world and see Little Penguins, Tuatara, Kiwi and more.
• Dine locally ($$): You won’t find a fresher meal anywhere in the world. Eat at farm-to-fork restaurants such as Bistronomy and Deliciosa Restaurant.

Wellington (2 Nights)

Solo travellers can get a true taste of Kiwi creativity and culture in Wellington – voted the “coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet.

Every visitor to New Zealand must visit the Te Papa National Museum and Art Gallery . And movie buffs can’t miss the famous WETA Workshop .

Nature lovers will want to ride the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens . But foodies might prefer to hang out in the trendy eateries and dive bars around Hannah’s Laneway .

This is the last stop on the North Island during your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Best things to do and see alone in Wellington:

• Te Papa National Museum and Art Gallery ($): It is free to visit New Zealand’s national museum. Considered one of the best attractions in the country, explore six floors of Maori treasures, artefacts of European settlement, a colossal squid, international artworks and much more.
• Wellington Cable Car ($): No solo trip to New Zealand is complete without riding the historic Wellington Cable Car, past the colourful houses and to the Botanic Gardens at the summit.
• Hannah’s Laneway ($): A trendy area filled with unique eateries and bars. 
• Zealandia Sanctuary ($$): Take a day or night tour around this forested wildlife sanctuary, home to over 40 species including hihi, kākāriki, takahē, glowworms and over 150 kiwis.
• WETA Workshop ($$): Tour the workshop responsible for the post-production of films such as The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar and District 9. Learn how the props and creatures were made before trying on some costumes and getting up close with the film antiques.

South Island (2 weeks)

Marlborough (2 nights).

Take the ferry (3.5 hours) from Wellington to Picton – your base for exploring the Marlborough region.

Explore the stunning waterways of the Marlborough Sound by boat or by foot, watching as the sunset reflects shades of purple off of the surface. 

Then enjoy a seafood dinner consisting of the world’s best Greenshell Mussels , washing it down with a glass of Shiraz or Sauvignon Blanc from one of the renowned local wineries.

Best things to do and see alone in Marlborough:

• Cruise the Marlborough Sounds ($$$): Either book a sunset cruise or hire a kayak and explore the calm waters yourself. Alternatively, jump aboard the Pelorus Mail Boat and help deliver the post to remote residents.
• Walk the Queen Charlotte Track ($): Considered one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Queen Charlotte Track (70km) takes 3-5 days to complete. Only recommended for keen hikers, it provides epic coastal views.
• Ride the Marlborough Wine Trail ($$): Hire a bike and take a self-guided tour to more than 30 wineries responsible for making some of the world’s best Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc.
• Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre ($$): The production team behind The Lord of the Rings has brought to life Peter Jackson’s private collection of WW1 and WW2 aircraft in two exhibitions: Knights of the Sky and Dangerous Skies.
• Kayak the Pelorus River ($$$): Take a guided tour down the rapids of the Pelorus River, recreating the Barrel Scene in the same location where The Hobbit was filmed.

Nelson and Tasman (2 Nights)

The next stop on your New Zealand solo travel itinerary is Nelson – the sunniest city in the country, art hub and cider capital.

Nelson is also a gateway to two of New Zealand’s most iconic National Parks – Nelson Lakes and Abel Tasman National Park.

Solo travellers who love soaking up the sun on the sand should spend a few days here.

Best things to do and see alone in Nelson and Tasman:

• Nelson Lakes National Park ($): The start of the Southern Alps, this park is blessed with glaciers, forest and the Blue Lake (the world’s clearest lake). Take one of the Lake Rotoiti short walks to see the Rotoiti Jetty (an Instagram favourite) or Whisky Falls.
• Abel Tasman National Park ($): This tropical haven is host to famous sights like Split Apple Rock and the Tonga Arches. Swim on the golden beaches, kayak the calm waters and enjoy an easy hike to Wainui Falls.
• Skydive ($$$): Throw yourself out of a plane for a solo or tandem skydive over Abel Tasman National Park.
• Te Waikoropupū Springs ($): A short drive from Abel Tasman National Park, wander the boardwalk around the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere. 

The West Coast (2 Nights)

Follow the edge of the Tasman Sea, tracing the wild West Coast of the South Island on your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Considered one of the top ten coastal drives in the world , you’ll have the chance to see seal colonies, gorges, hot pools and historic mining towns.

Plus, you’ll even get your first look at New Zealand’s tallest mountain – Mount Cook Aoraki .

But the highlights have to be Franz Josef and Fox Glacier , two of the world’s most accessible glaciers. 

Best things to do and see alone on the West Coast:

• Paparoa National Park ($): Drive through Paparoa National Park, stopping to do the loop walk around the unique Punakaiki Pancake Rocks (1.1km). 
• Hokitika Gorge ($): Stretch your legs at Hokitika Gorge, where the loop walk (2km) passes through pristine forest before emerging above the bright blue waters of the Hokitika River.  
• Franz Josef Glacier ($): If you want to save money, take the Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk (1.7km return), which provides views of the glacier, waterfalls and Waiho River. Alternatively, take a guided hike or a heli-hike on the face of the glacier.
• Fox Glacier ($): Sitting amongst temperate rainforest, you can get great views along the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway (6.4km return). Alternatively, pay for a guided tour to the face of the glacier.
• Lake Matheson ($): Follow the walkway (4.4km) around the edge of Lake Matheson and enjoy the views of nearby Aoraki Mount Cook. 

Wanaka (1 Night)

As you leave the West Coast, you will enter the UNESCO Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area – a land frozen in time for 80 million years.

Find some accommodation in beautiful Wanaka , a lakeside town set against the backdrop of The Remarkables snow-capped mountain range.

In summer, Wanaka is a gateway to the incredible Mount Aspiring National Park . And in winter, it is a convenient base for those wanting to ski or snowboard The Remarkables.

Best things to do and see alone in Wanaka:

• See the Wanaka Tree ($): Take an easy stroll around the Lake Wanaka walking track at sunrise or sunset. Grab some shots of the famous Wanaka Tree (a must-see on every New Zealand solo travel itinerary).
• Mount Aspiring National Park ($): Try some of the walking tracks around this remote slice of pristine wilderness. The most popular is the Blue Pools walking track (3km return), where you can swim amongst deep pools of glacial water.
• Eat at the Cardrona Hotel ($$): Take a short drive up into The Remarkables for lunch at the historic Cardrona Hotel (est. 1863). Devour a pub meal (try the lamb burger) whilst admiring the mountain views.
• Ski or snowboard ($$$): Wanaka offers some of the best skiing in the Southern Hemisphere between June and October. The best ski resorts near Wanaka are Cardrona and Treble Cone.

Queenstown (2 Nights)

Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world and a highlight on any New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Adrenaline junkies can get their hearts pumping with adventure sports , including bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, mountain biking, snow sports and more!

But if you prefer to take things easy , Queenstown also offers quaint historic villages, cosy cafes and eateries, scenic walking trails and world-class spas.

Best things to do and see alone in Queenstown:

• Bungee jumping ($$$): Kawarau Bridge Bungee was the world’s first bungee jump and remains the most famous. Plunge 43m toward the river below and touch the surface.
• Skyline Gondola and Luge ($$): Ride the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere to Bob’s Peak, overlooking Queenstown from 480m above. Then speed back down the mountain on a luge, steering your way through 1600m of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. 
• Onsen Hot Pools ($$$): Enjoy the ultimate Japanese spa experience, as you perch yourself in a cedar tub and soak in the hot water whilst overlooking the Shotover River and surrounding mountain ranges.
• Visit Arrowtown ($): This historic settlement was first pioneered in 1864 as a gold rush community. Today, it has been fully restored so that you can wander through the quaint streets, explore the cottages and shops and visit the Lake District Museum. 
• Ski or snowboard ($$$): If you happen to be in Queenstown between June and October, you’re going to want to visit one of the best local ski resorts: The Remarkables or Coronet Peak.

Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park (1 Night)

Deep within Fjordland Nationals Park sits Milford Sound – consistently rated the #1 attraction in New Zealand.

At the gateway to the National Park is the township of Te Anau (Maori for “Place of Swirling Waters”). You can find comfortable accommodation here if Milford Sound is too busy or expensive during the peak seasons.

It’s only a 165km drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound, which can be done in as little as 2-3 hours. However, there are dozens of amazing sights , walking trails, lakes, swimming holes and lookouts along the way – so it’s worth taking a whole day .

You’ll be awestruck when you do arrive in Milford Sound – a place of towering fiords, mountainous peaks and 1000m waterfalls . It feels like you’ve stepped into a fantasy.

Best things to do and see alone in Fiordland National Park:

• Jet boat ($$$): Rocket your way around Fiordland National Park, gripping on as the jet boat weaves its way through the shimmering Waiau River.
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves ($$): Descend into the caverns that lie beneath the town of Te Anau, exploring the passages that are lit by thousands of gleaming glow worms. 
• Short walks in Fiordland National Park ($): On the drive between Te Anau and Milford Sound, you will find dozens of short walking trails. Two popular tracks include Mirror Lakes (400m) and Lake Marian Track (6.2km).
• Hundred Falls Lookout ($): When exiting Homer Tunnel, you’ll see the Hundred Falls Lookout. Quite literally, hundreds of waterfalls pour down the surrounding rock faces (best seen after recent rain).
• Short walks at Milford Sound ($): There are also numerous walking trails around the edge of Milford Sound. The Foreshore Walk (400m) and the Lookout Track are both easy and offer awesome views.
• Cruise or kayak Milford Sound ($$$): Feel the spray of the waterfalls against your skin, as you get up close to the fjords on a daytime or overnight cruise. Alternatively, glide around in a kayak and keep an eye out for local wildlife like seals and dolphins.

The Catlins (1 Night)

Along the rugged fringes of New Zealand’s South Island lie The Catlins – a region of untouched beaches and forests that is less crowded with tourists.

Visit one of the country’s most photographed lighthouses, explore giant caverns along the coastline and take short strolls to spectacular waterfalls.

From the Catlins stems the Otago Peninsula – famous for the thousands of seals, sea lions and penguins that litter the beaches.

Best things to do and see alone in The Catlins:

• Cathedral Caves ($): Carved into the cliffs of Waipati Beach, you can explore these enormous caves that stand at 30m tall and extend 200m. Can only be visited at low tide.
• Go chasing waterfalls ($): There are three amazing sets of waterfalls that you can visit whilst solo travelling through The Catlins: McLean Falls, Purakaunui Falls Walk and Matai Falls.
• Nugget Point Lighthouse ($): One of the oldest and most photographed lighthouses in New Zealand. The location was named by Captain Cook due to the scattered boulders that stick out of the ocean below like nuggets of gold.
• See the wildlife of the Otago Peninsula ($): Victory Beach, Sandfly Bay and Allans Beach are three of the best beaches to stop and see the fur seals, sea lions and penguins that call the Otago home. 

Dunedin (1 Night)

Dunedin is known as the Edinburgh of the South . The city’s Scottish heritage makes it unlike anywhere else on your New Zealand solo travel itinerary. 

The Edwardian architecture that lines the streets will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. So do as the Edwardians did and enjoy a high tea at Larnach Castle .

The albatross and penguins that call Dunedin home also make this a great destination for solo travellers wanting to spot rare wildlife.

Best things to do and see alone in Dunedin:

• Larnach Castle ($$): Uncover scandalous family history and learn about Dunedin’s Scottish heritage. Afterwards, enjoy high tea before wandering the gardens.
• Otago Settlers Museum ($$): Discover the turbulent history of the Otago region, with exhibits displaying artefacts from Maori tribal culture, European explorers, settlers and sailors.
• Royal Albatross Centre ($$): Take a guided tour of the world’s only mainland Royal Albatross Breeding Centre. Despite their 3m wingspan, these enormous birds are amazingly graceful.
• Moeraki Boulders Beach ($): An hour north of Dunedin are the Moeraki Boulders, a set of giant stone marbles up to 3m wide and weighing several tonnes. Worth stopping for a photo when driving to your next destination.
• Watch a penguin march ($): Watch a colony of Little Penguins (the world’s smallest penguins) waddle from the water to their burrows. Located in Oamaru, north of Dunedin (worth a stop when driving to the next destination).  

Aoraki Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo (1 Night)

If you’re in a rush, you could follow the East Coast directly back to Christchurch. 

But I recommend taking the scenic route and adding Aoraki Mount Cook to your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Aoraki Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in the country . Sir Edmund Hilary trained here before becoming the first man to climb Mount Everest.

Whilst the walking trails around Mount Cook are great, the best part is the drive itself . This is one of the most dramatic and scenic drives in the world. 

As you work your way along the edge of sparkling L ake Pukaki , the great mountain looms overhead and grows larger and larger.

Not far away is the equally stunning Lake Tekapo – famous for its lakeside chapel, wildflowers and clear night skies.

Best things to do and see alone around Mount Cook:

• Short walks around Mount Cook ($): There are several short and scenic walks around the base of the mountain. Favourites include the Hooker Valley Track (10km) and Blue Lakes Hoop Track (2.2km), both fairly easy with views of lakes, glaciers and mountains. 
• Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre ($$): Learn about the mountain through a 3D film, museum and gallery. At night, observe the universe through the digital dome observatory.
• New Zealand Alpine Lavender ($): One of the largest organic lavender farms in the Southern Hemisphere. Between December and March, you can walk amongst the lavender fields, try their special ice cream and enjoy the views over Lake Pukaki.
• Church of the Good Shepherd ($): Built by pioneers in 1935, this stunning stone church sits on the edge of Lake Tekapo and makes for one of the best photographs in New Zealand. Aim to arrive at sunrise or sunset.
• Stargazing ($): Lake Tekapo is one of the best places in the world to stargaze and observe the Southern Lights (best seen between April and September). For the best vantage point, make the ten-minute drive to Mount John Observatory. 

Christchurch (2 Nights)

The international airport in Christchurch makes this a great place to end your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

But don’t fly home without visiting a few of the major attractions in New Zealand’s second-largest city .

Christchurch has an exciting history of exploration and earthquakes , which you can learn all about at the International Antarctic Centre and Quake City.

Then do some exploring of your own and venture up to Arthur’s Pass , a dramatic landscape of waterfalls and forests in the heights of the Southern Alps.

Finally, take a rest in the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or grab dinner at the Riverside Market to conclude your solo travel around New Zealand.

Best things to do and see alone in Christchurch:

• Quake City ($$): Experience what it was like to live through the earthquake that devastated much of Christchurch in 2011. World-class interactive displays help you to better understand this geological disaster.  
• The International Antarctic Centre ($$): Experience an Antarctic storm in the Storm Dome, ride an all-terrain vehicle around the outdoor adventure course, view the Little Blue Penguins and pat a husky.
• Christchurch Gondola ($$): Ride the gondola 862m to the summit of Mt Cavendish. Enjoy the panoramic views over the city and sea before walking back down.
• Christchurch Botanic Gardens ($): Spend some time here and you’ll see why Christchurch is called the Garden City. Enjoy free entrance and witness how the local flora changes throughout the seasons.
• Arthur’s Pass National Park ($): Drive one of New Zealand’s highest roads (900m above sea level); passing over viaducts, crossing raging rivers and teetering on the edge of waterfalls. Stretch your legs with one of the short walking tracks (I recommend the Devil’s Punchbowl (2km return)).

Solo Travelling New Zealand: 10 Best Things to Do and See

Out of all the attractions and sights mentioned in the solo travel itinerary above, here is my final list of the top 10 best things to do and see in New Zealand. 

You don’t want to miss these!

• Cruise the Sounds

The most popular sound in New Zealand is Milford Sound, famous for its inky black waters, sheer cliffs and thundering waterfalls.

But for something a little different, solo travellers may also want to visit Marlborough Sound. Here, you can spend the day delivering mail by boat to remote residents!

• Experience Maori culture

The Maori warmly welcome guests to experience their culture; including war dances (Haka), arts like carving and tattoo (Toi) and traditional food (Kai).

The best places to experience Maori culture include Te Pa Tu and Whakarewarewa (both in Rotorua) and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (in the Bay of Islands).

• Bungee jump

The 43m high Kawarau Bridge Bungee in Queenstown was the first bungee in the world – started by legendary Kiwi entrepreneur AJ Hackett.

But other popular bungee spots include the 134m tall Nevis Bungy in Queenstown (the tallest in NZ) and the Auckland Bridge Bungy.

• Jet boat ride

In my opinion, Huka Falls is the best jet boating experience in the country. You’ll be on edge as you carve through the lightning-blue waters towards the powerful rapids. 

But Haast (West Coast South Island), Waikato River (Rotorua) and Wanaka also have awesome jet boat experiences when you solo travel New Zealand. 

• Wine tasting

The Land of the Long White Cloud is home to more than 700 wineries that produce some of the world’s best wines.

If you love a Sauvignon Blanc, be sure to do the wine trail in Marlborough. But if you prefer a Merlot or a Malbec, spend some time in Hawkes Bay when you solo travel New Zealand.

Want somewhere a little quieter? Central Otago is quickly becoming renowned for its Pinot Noir and Rosé.

• See a kiwi and a kea

The kiwi bird is the national animal of New Zealand. It was once used to weave feather cloaks for their Maori chiefs but is today vulnerable to being endangered. 

Visit a sanctuary like The National Kiwi Hatchery (Rotorua) to support conservation efforts. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Stewart Island to see a kiwi in the wild.

New Zealand is also home to the kea – the world’s only alpine parrot. If you’re lucky, you may see some in the Southern Alps (places like Arthur’s Pass, Mt Cook, Fiordland and the southern ski fields).

• Visit the Lord of the Rings sets

Hobbit-heads can recreate their own journey through Middle Earth by adding the various filming locations and workshops to your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Some of the Lord of the Rings sites you can visit include: Mt Doom and Mordor (Tongariro National Park), the Hideaway (Mt Victoria in Wellington) and the Battle of Pelennor Fields (Twizel near Mt Cook).

You can also join guided LOTR tours in both Queenstown and nearby Glenorchy.

• Climb a glacier

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glaciers are the most visited glaciers in New Zealand. That’s because they are easily accessible and unique (surrounded by rainforest).

But I also suggest taking a free hike to the quieter and equally spectacular Tasman and Hooker Glaciers (near Mt Cook) when you solo travel New Zealand.

• Soak in a natural spa

All over New Zealand, you’ll find spots where warm geothermal waters flow from the earth’s surface to create natural spas and rock pools.

Free spas include Hot Water Beach (Coromandel), Wai-O-Tapu (Rotorua), Spa Thermal Park (Taupo) and Welcome Flat (near Fox Glacier).

If you want to pay for a premium spa experience, add the Onsen Hot Pools (Queenstown) or The Lost Spring (Coromandel) to your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

• Get up close to geothermal wonders

New Zealand offers solo travellers the rare opportunity to get close to geothermal and volcanic spectacles.

The best geothermal wonders are found on the North Island around Rotorua, Taupo and Tongariro National Park. 

Feel the heat under your feet and watch as pools of mud bubble and boil, steam rises through the cracks, geysers shoot sky-high and hot water tumbles over waterfalls.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Accommodation

Solo travellers have four main accommodation options in New Zealand: camping, hostels, motels/hotels and Airbnb. 

Most people generally stay in hostels and motels or camp in campervans when they solo travel New Zealand.

New Zealand offers some of the most scenic camping in the world. Camping is a great option for solo travellers who want to save money whilst enjoying nature .

For more information about hiring a campervan, see the transport section below.

Free camping

There are about 50 free campsites around New Zealand (known as “ freedom camping ”). These sites are managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) or local council. 

However, freedom campsites normally only offer basic facilities such as composting toilets and fresh water. 

Further, you must abide by strict rules when freedom camping:

• Only camp in designated areas where camping is allowed;
• Only camp in a self-contained vehicle with a certification sticker (must be fitted with a toilet, freshwater storage, wastewater storage and bin);
• Leave the campsite in the same condition you found it.

Some of my favourite free campsites when travelling alone in New Zealand include:

• Twenty Five Mile Stream (Queenstown, South Island)
• Robin Hood Bay (Blenheim, South Island)
• Greyney’s Shelter (Arthur’s Pass, South Island)
• Whakaipo Bay Recreational Reserve (Lake Taupo, North Island)
• Hamilton’s Gap (Auckland, North Island)

Paid camping

There are also many paid campsites around New Zealand that are managed by the DOC. Plus, most holiday parks offer camping. 

The cost of a paid campsite for a solo traveller in New Zealand ranges anywhere from NZ$6 per night to NZ$100 per night (for a premium site in peak season).

Paid campsites offer better facilities than free campsites, including power outlets, hot showers, flush toilets, barbecues, laundry and more.

Some of my favourite paid campsites and holiday parks when travelling alone in New Zealand include:

• Rainforest Campervan Park (Milford Sound, South Island)
• Rainforest Retreat (Franz Josef, South Island)
• White Horse Hill Campground (Mount Cook, South Island)
• Piha Domain Motor Camp (Auckland, North Island)
• Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park (Rotorua, North Island)

The majority of solo travellers and backpackers in New Zealand stay at hostels because they are affordable and social .

You can find hostels in almost every tourist destination around the country.

On average, it costs a solo traveller NZ$40 per night to stay in a hostel in New Zealand. 

The cost of a single bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from about NZ$25–80 per night . The cost of a private single room in a hostel ranges from about NZ$70–250 per night .

Hostels are most expensive in popular destinations like Queenstown, Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. 

Most hostels across New Zealand receive great reviews for cleanliness, security, facilities, staff and atmosphere.

Some of the most popular hostels for solo travel in New Zealand include:

• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel (Auckland)
• Adventure Queenstown Hostel (Queenstown)
• The Marion (Wellington)
• Jailhouse Accommodation (Christchurch)
• YHA Finlay Jacks Backpackers (Taupo)

Motels and hotels

Many solo travellers in New Zealand stay in motels or hotels because they want to enjoy privacy and comfort . 

You can find motels and hotels in every tourist destination around the country.

On average, it costs a solo traveller NZ$225 per night to stay in a motel or hotel in New Zealand. 

The cost of an average motel or hotel single room (3-4 stars) ranges from about NZ$100-350 per night . However, luxurious hotel rooms for singles can cost more than NZ$400+ per night.

Popular motel and hotel chains in New Zealand include:

• InterContinental.

Some solo travellers in New Zealand may choose to use Airbnb because they want the utmost in luxury, privacy and comfort .

The average cost of an apartment or home on Airbnb in New Zealand ranges from NZ$125 – $350 per night . However, some rentals can cost up to $500+ per night.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Transport

InterCity is the best (and only) nationwide bus service that you can use to solo travel New Zealand.

They have an extensive network across both the North and South Islands and stop at almost every tourist destination in the country.

Solo travellers have 2 options when buying an InterCity travel pass:

• FlexiPass (best option) – An hours-based bus pass (anywhere from 10 hours (NZ$139) to 80 hours (NZ$641)). Provides solo travellers with flexibility to travel wherever you want, when you want (includes Interislander Ferry). To solo travel both the North and South Island (i.e. the itinerary above), you will need between 60-70 hours (N$518-589). 
• TravelPass – Six pre-planned routes to the most popular destinations in New Zealand. You only have flexibility over when you travel, not where. To solo travel both the North and South Island costs NZ$529 (but it misses 7 of the stops on the above itinerary).

Alternatively, you could simply join a guided coach tour such as KiwiExperience (aimed toward young solo travellers and backpackers who like to party) or Stray (aimed at more mature solo travellers and includes accommodation). However, guided coach tours offer less flexibility and control over your itinerary.

Trains are not really used for travel in New Zealand.

In fact, there are only three scenic rail journeys in the country:

• TranzAlpine (South Island): An internationally renowned journey that runs between Christchurch and Greymouth (crossing the Southern Alps). Tickets start from NZ$219.
• Coastal Pacific (South Island): Runs the coast between Picton (Marlborough) and Christchurch. Takes one day. Tickets start from NZ$159.
• Northern Explorer (North Island): Runs between Auckland and Wellington. Takes one day. Tickets start from NZ$219.

I recommend riding the TranzAlpine or Coastal Pacific if you have the time and budget to add a 2-day round trip to your New Zealand solo travel itinerary.

Domestic flights are available to all major cities and many regional cities in New Zealand.

The average cost of a domestic flight for a solo traveller in New Zealand depends on the destination, distance and season: 

• Shorter flights (i.e. within the North or South Island) may only cost around NZ$70 – $200 per person one way (economy class).
• Longer flights (i.e. from the North Island to the South Island) may cost more, at around NZ$150-$300 per person one way (economy class).

You also have to consider the cost of luggage . Most domestic airlines in New Zealand do not include luggage in the ticket price and you will have to pay an extra fee of about NZ$50–$80 per flight. 

The most popular domestic airlines in New Zealand include:

• Jetstar (most affordable)
• Air New Zealand (most comfortable)

Domestic flights are the fastest way to solo travel New Zealand. However, flying is more expensive than some other options and you won’t get to see as much of the countryside.

There are many ferry and water taxi services around New Zealand.

The most popular ferry service is between Wellington and Picton (The Cook Strait) – connecting the North and South Islands. Two companies (Bluebridge and Interislander) offer this service regularly throughout the day . The trip takes 3.5 hours and costs about NZ$75 for an adult or NZ$170 for a car (more for a campervan or motorhome).

There are also water ferries from Auckland to the surrounding islands (most trips take less than an hour and a return fare costs less than $50).

Plus, there is a daily passenger ferry to Stewart Island from the bottom of the South Island. This trip takes an hour and costs about $100 one-way. 

Car and campervan rental

One of the best ways to solo travel New Zealand is in a rental car, campervan or motorhome.

The cost of hiring a car or campervan in New Zealand depends on the type of vehicle you hire, your age and any extras:

• Aged 18-21: Some rental agencies won’t let people younger than 21 hire a car or campervan. Others may restrict the type of vehicle you can hire or charge an additional fee (normally about NZ$5 per day). 
• Small car: About NZ$100 per day to hire a small car such as a Suzuki Swift or a Toyota Corolla. 
• Medium to large car: About NZ$150 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Prius or Toyota Rav4. 
• Small campervan: About NZ$45-450 per day for a 2-berth campervan with basic features like a gas stove, small fridge and small freshwater tank.
• Large campervan or motorhome: About NZ$300-$700 per day for a campervan with 3+ berths and additional features like a shower, toilet and kitchen.

Note that car and campervan hire costs more during the busy summer period (December – March). You will also pay more if you drop off the rental at a different location to where you picked it up.

The most popular car rental companies include Europcar, Avis, Sixt and Ezi. The most popular campervan rental companies include Jucy, Britz, Maui, Apollo and Travellers Autobahn. 

Public Transport

Buses are the main form of public transport within New Zealand’s major cities (Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch) and some regional cities.

On average, a short-distance bus fare in New Zealand costs between NZ$2.50-5 .

Whilst you can pay the bus driver in cash , it is usually cheaper to pay with a prepaid card . These cards can be bought at certain convenience stores.

However, note that each city in New Zealand uses a different card system, so it can become a hassle having to buy and top up a new card all the time.

Uber and Taxi

Ubers and taxis are available in all major cities and many regional cities around New Zealand; including Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Dunedin, Queenstown, Rotorua, Taupo, Hawkes Bay, Nelson and more.

Ubers are more affordable than taxis in New Zealand and charge about NZ$1.40 per km. Taxis charge about NZ$2.60 per km.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Best Time to Visit New Zealand

The best time to travel alone in New Zealand is in Autumn or Spring because temperatures are reasonable, there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. 

However, each season has its advantages and disadvantages.

Summer in New Zealand lasts from December to February.  

During summer, daytime temperatures across New Zealand average around 20 – 25˚C (68 – 77˚F) .

This is the most popular season for tourism – so you should expect large crowds and high prices.

Good solo travel destinations in summer include Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Islands, the Bay of Plenty, Nelson and Kaikoura.

Autumn in New Zealand lasts from March to May . 

During autumn, daytime temperatures across New Zealand average around 17 – 21˚C (62 – 70˚F) .

Autumn is a great season to solo travel because there are fewer crowds, lower prices, changing foliage and warm weather.

Good solo travel destinations in autumn include the Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough, Tongariro National Park, Wellington and the Bay of Islands.

Winter in New Zealand lasts from June to August . 

During winter, daytime temperatures across New Zealand average around 12 – 16˚C (53 – 61˚F) .

If you enjoy snow sports (skiing and snowboarding), winter is a great time so solo travel New Zealand.

Good solo travel destinations in winter include Queenstown, Wanaka, Lindis Pass, Whakapapa and Hawkes Bay.

Spring in New Zealand lasts from September to November . 

During spring, daytime temperatures across New Zealand average around 16 – 19˚C (61 – 66˚F) .

Spring is another great season to solo travel because gardens are blooming and the leftover snow from winter is melting to form waterfalls.

Good solo travel destinations in spring include Fjordland, Hamilton, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, Mt Cook, Christchurch and Hawkes Bay. 

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Where to Start

Auckland is the best place to start your solo travel in New Zealand. Many major airlines around the world offer international flights to Auckland (either directly or via Australia). 

From Auckland, you can take an overnight trip to the Bay of Islands (north) or start your journey southward, eventually finishing in Christchurch (where you can fly home from the international airport).

Alternatively, you could reverse the trip – starting in Christchurch and ending in Auckland. This will depend on whether it is more affordable to fly into Auckland or Christchurch.

If you wanted to solo travel Australia after New Zealand, you could even end your journey in Queenstown and take a flight to Melbourne or Sydney (see below).

Solo Travelling New Zealand: How Long to Spend Travelling New Zealand

You need at least 3 weeks to solo travel around the whole of New Zealand (both the North and South Islands). However, this will be a rush and you may tire from travelling so quickly.

It would be much more comfortable to travel around New Zealand in 4-6 weeks. This will give you time to rest between travel days.

If you only have 2 weeks to solo travel New Zealand, it is best to only do the North Island or the South Island – not both.

New Zealand Solo Trip: Cost and Budgeting

How much does a New Zealand solo trip cost ?

On a backpacker’s budget , solo travellers in New Zealand can expect to spend about NZ$125 per day . On this budget, you would mostly be staying in hostel dorm rooms, preparing most of your own meals, enjoying up to three alcoholic beverages per night, visiting mostly free or cheap attractions and travelling via coach.

If you want to go camping on a budget whilst solo travelling in New Zealand, you can expect to spend about NZ$150 per day . On this budget, you would be renting a small and basic campervan, fuelling up once every three days, camping mostly at free campsites, preparing all your own meals, enjoying one alcoholic beverage per night and mainly visiting free attractions (e.g. National Parks).

On a standard budget , solo travellers in New Zealand can expect to spend about NZ$350 per day . On this budget, you would be staying in private rooms in hostels or motels, eating out once or twice a day, enjoying up to three alcoholic beverages per night, visiting one paid attraction per day and travelling via coach or domestic flight (or renting a small car or campervan).

If you want to go camping in luxury whilst solo travelling in New Zealand, you can expect to pay about NZ$600 per day . On this budget, you would be renting a large and modern campervan or motorhome, fuelling up once every three days, camping mostly at holiday parks, preparing most of your own meals, enjoying up to three alcoholic beverages per night and visiting one paid attraction per day.  

On a luxury budget , solo travellers in New Zealand can expect to spend about $800 per day . On this budget, you would mostly be staying in hotels or Airbnb rentals, eating all of your meals out, enjoying a nice bottle of wine each night, visiting two or more paid attractions per day and travelling via car rental, domestic flights or train.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Packing List

There are ten essential items that everyone should pack when solo travelling New Zealand:

• Jandals: In summer, the staple footwear for most Kiwis is “jandals” (aka flip-flops). They’re easy to slip on and will protect your feet from scorching pavements and hot sands. Plus, they’re also handy when visiting spas and pools.
• Beach towel: You’ll be visiting a tonne of water-based attractions in New Zealand, including beaches, rivers, waterfalls, hot pools and more. But many hostels won’t provide you with a towel – so carry your own.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitos and sandflies are a nuisance in New Zealand all year around and their bites are nasty. Protect yourself with repellent.
• Hydrocortisone cream: You will inevitably be bitten by mosquitos and sandflies during your solo trip. Hydrocortisone helps to soothe itching and stings.
• New Zealand adapter: You have to use a plug-type I adaptor to power your appliances when you solo travel in New Zealand. 
• Dry bag: Given that you’re going to spend time jet boating, swimming and chasing waterfalls, it’s best to protect your valuables in a dry bag. Afterwards, take your stuff out and throw your wet clothes in.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: In New Zealand, you can suffer from sunburn in as little as fifteen minutes. Wear sunscreen every day and protect your eyes with sunglasses (even during winter).
• Waterproof jacket: You can experience four seasons in one day when travelling alone around New Zealand. Even during summer, it pays to bring a waterproof jacket to keep yourself dry and warm during outdoor activities.
• Thermal underlayers: If you want to solo travel New Zealand in winter, it’s worth packing thermal underlayers. Try to get breathable material for outdoor activities.  
• Quick dry hiking shoes: Almost every day of your trip, you’ll be coming across one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Protect your feet and keep them dry with a decent pair of hiking shoes (and thick woollen socks).

Don’t leave anything behind. Before travelling to New Zealand, use our solo travel packing list for males and solo travel packing list for females .

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Safety

Is New Zealand safe to travel alone ?

Solo travel in New Zealand is very safe for both females and males. Scams, theft and assault are rare. 

On average, New Zealand welcomes almost 4 million tourists a year. And 94% of tourists report that their visit to New Zealand either met or exceeded their expectations (including safety).

Further, New Zealand has received an extremely high score of 92/100 on the Global Safety Index.

However, solo travellers should remain cautious of the following dangers.

• Volcanic activity: There have been several incidents in recent years where tourists were killed or seriously injured due to volcanic eruptions (White Island 2019), earthquakes (Christchurch 2011) or other geothermal activity (e.g.sinkholes in Rotorua).
• Driving: One of the leading causes of accidental injury and death in New Zealand is road accidents. If you plan on driving, make sure you drive on the left, take it slow and understand the road rules.
• Adventure sports: Don’t overestimate your abilities. When hiking, stick to the trails, pack for the worst and tell someone your plans. When participating in water sports (swimming, scuba diving, rafting, etc.), check the conditions and consider wearing a life jacket. 
• Hitchhiking: In the past, several solo travellers (mainly women) have been murdered whilst hitchhiking around New Zealand. Avoid hitchhiking and use reputable transport companies.
• Solo female travel: Whilst New Zealand is a very safe destination for women to travel alone, solo female tourists have been murdered in the past. Avoid walking alone at night, stay in well-lit areas and don’t accept drinks from strangers.

Call 111 if you ever need emergency assistance in New Zealand. Cities and towns are patrolled by police and ambulance services are fast to respond.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: Visas and Entry Requirements

It is generally easy to gain entrance to New Zealand for solo travel.

Before you travel to New Zealand, you may need to apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZETA) if you:

• Are a citizen of a country that has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand; and
• Are visiting New Zealand for less than 3 months (or 6 months if you are a UK citizen).

Applying for the NZETA costs NZ$17 on the app or $23 online. At the same time, you must also pay an additional tourism levy of NZ$35.

Note that Australian citizens do not require a visa or NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

If you do not fit the above criteria , you will need to apply for a visitor visa online. A visitor visa allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to 9 months.

All visitors to New Zealand must also ensure that their passport will be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date that they expect to depart New Zealand.

Solo Travelling New Zealand: How to go from New Zealand to Australia

The quickest and most affordable way to go from New Zealand to Australia is to fly . On average, a flight costs between NZ$200-600 and takes about 4 hours .

The most popular flights between New Zealand and Australia are:

• Auckland to Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane – Flights are mostly direct, take about 4 hours and cost between NZ$200-500.
• Queenstown to Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane – Flights are mostly direct, take about 3.5 hours and cost between NZ$250-500.
• Christchurch to Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane – Flights normally involve a stopover, take between 4-8 hours and cost between NZ$350-600.

There is no ferry between New Zealand and Australia.

Related Post

More Solo Travel Tips on Nomadic Yak

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry . I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

For even more information about solo travel in Australia, see our solo travel tips .

We also have destination guides to help you plan solo travel in nearby countries such as New Zealand.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

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12 of the best tips how to travel solo safely in New Zealand

Driving in New Zealand

How to travel solo safely in N…

Posted by Spaceships Crew

Are you a solo female traveller considering New Zealand as your next adventure spot? If so, you have excellent taste. With otherworldly natural beauty, like the glow worm caves, Hobbiton and the Tongariro Crossing and lively cities, such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, New Zealand has everything a traveller could ever want in an epic vacation.

New Zealand is just as safe as anywhere else in the world. If you exercise caution and travel smart, you should have a simply fantastic time in the Land of the Long White Cloud. As a female traveller, it is essential to remember the following travel tips to maximize your solo travel experience. Solo female travel New Zealand style is always in style.

Before your epic, solo New Zealand adventure starts read these helpful, common-sense tips. Let us help you create a dream trip that you will remember fondly for years to come.

1. Study New Zealand before you arrive

Know before you go. Researching everything you can about an area before you arrive is just as important as researching campervan rentals, campsites, hostels, motels, activities and attractions. It is essential to know all you can to prevent any unforeseen travel mishaps.

• The Spaceships travel blog has all the info about travelling and camping in New Zealand: suggested itineraries, where to stay and rules about camping.
• Combined with the free NZ Frenzy guides you will be able to find all popular and off-the-beaten-path things to do and see.
• Last but not least, the free camping app from Spaceships will show you where to find all free and budget campsites in New Zealand, the facilities that each campsite has (from basic to fully equipped) and how other travellers have rated these campsites so you will know what to expect and how busy it is at particular times of the year. Download the free camping apps , there's a camping app for Android and Apple.

2. Common sense is the golden rule

Just because you are on vacation doesn’t mean you have to do things you wouldn’t do at home. If it doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Say ‘no’ to things you are not comfortable with and leave places or people if they give you a bad feeling.

Just as you do in your own home, lock the door. Securing your campervan at night and when leaving it for extended amounts of time is a common sense and practical way to keep yourself and your belongings safe. New Zealand is safe, but locking up is a smart thing to do anywhere in the world.

4. Make sure to stow away your valuables

Another common-sense practice is to keep any valuables out of sight. When your possessions are out of sight, they are out of mind for potential thieves. Use the lockable storage that comes in every Spaceships campervan . Nothing ruins a trip faster than a stolen camera or phone with the only travel photos you’ve taken.

5. Plan your drive

New Zealand is full of beautiful, practically untouched natural areas and as such there are quite a few areas with limited services. Plan your driving route ahead of time to make sure you will have adequate places to fuel up and purchase necessities. We are confident that being stranded on the side of the road without petrol is not high on the top of your must-do New Zealand list.

6. Bring food & drinks

Your Spaceships campervan comes with all cooking & sleeping gear included. All you need to bring are the ingredients to cook simple yet yummy homemade uh campervan-made meals. Various supermarkets are practically around the corner of our New Zealand depots so that will be an easy task. Make sure to buy plenty of snacks that can be carried in your daypack when going hiking. There are so many awesome day-hikes and even multi-day hikes here. The most famous ones are called the Great Walks of New Zealand .

Just as you need to refuel your campervan on time, you'll need to refuel your own engines as well. Bring muesli bars, fresh or dried fruits and nuts when going hiking. These snacks will give you an extra energy boost when hiking. Of course, more food is needed when going on a multi-day hike.

It's better to bring more food then you need on a particular day or evening. You never know what each night will bring or where you'll be camping that night. Lots of campsites in New Zealand have minimal facilities so don't expect camping shops at these campsites. If you do have left-over foods at the end of your road trip, please donate it to people in need or leave it on the recycle/re-use table at our depots, then the next Space Travellers will take what they need to their trip.

7. In case of an emergency

We always hope there won’t be a situation where you need to call the New Zealand emergency phone number. However, being prepared and knowing what to do in case of an unplanned event is always smart. To call for emergency services in New Zealand (fire, police or an ambulance), dial 111 from any phone- mobile or landline. Dialling this number is free, even if you have no credit left on your mobile phone.

Important phone numbers when it's urgent but not an emergency

If you need roadside assistance for your Spaceships campervan or have a question or issue that isn't an emergency, call the Spaceships crew or roadside assistance crew via our toll-free number 0800 772 237. Simply call the free 0800 number, no need to add +64, from any payphone, courtesy phone or mobile phone (even with an overseas SIM card). Call the Spaceships freephone number 0800 772 237 and you'll have the following options in the phone menu to choose from:

• Select 1 to book a Spaceship (talk to the sales team)
• Select 2 to talk to a Spaceships crew member about your booking or transfer (you can always call us during your road trip to ask questions, report something or just to have a chat. The Spaceships crew is always happy to help and would love to hear from you)
• Select 3 to talk to New Zealand Roadside Assistance (NZRA) aka our roadside assistance provider in case of technical or mechanical issues, accident or a breakdown (they are available 24 hours a day). NZRA is an external organisation that we have hired to offer you 24-hours roadside assistance, which comes included with every Spaceships campervan, no matter the insurance level you have selected. All Spaceships come with roadside assistance.

8. Protect your documents

Before leaving, photocopy your passport and ID. Keep the copies in a separate place from the originals. It would also be wise to give a copy to a trusted person, like a parent. Another idea is to take photos of your documents and upload it to a secure cloud storage platform you like to use, for example, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive or Tresorit. Additionally, always keep your passport and license with you at all times.

9. Let someone know what you are up to

Before you leave your hometown, make sure friends or family are aware of your plans. Don't post your detailed travel plans on Facebook but send the important people in your life your itinerary, including flight details. When you're in New Zealand having fun on the road, make sure to check in with the people back home on a regular basis. And let them know when you will be doing off the beaten patch activities that might bring you off the radar for a few days.

When going hiking or enjoying the amazing scenery of New Zealand, stick to the outdoor safety code:

• Plan your trip (be prepared)
• Tell someone your plans before you go (tell hostel/campsite staff, your family or friends or sign in at a visitor centre)
• Be aware of the weather (the weather in New Zealand can change suddenly)
• Know your limits (do walks or hikes you can handle)
• Take sufficient supplies (bring enough water and snacks or food)

Use the Mountain Safety Council's Safety tool to plan your outdoor activities, to get tips & advice and to create a schedule for the people back home.

Prepare yourself for your New Zealand trip and enjoy the amazing scenery here

10. Use cards instead of cash

Don't bring too much cash on your solo trip to New Zealand. Mastercard and Visa (credit and debit cards) are widely accepted throughout New Zealand. From buying a cup of coffee in the morning to paying for cash, no matter where you are, almost every merchant in New Zealand has an EFTPOS machine (payment terminal) so you can pay safely by card instead of cash. Make sure to bring two debit or credit cards, a main one and a back-up one, just in case you lose one or one gets blocked due to security rules of your credit card company (they sometimes do that when there are lots of expenses made in a country you haven't been to before).

Tip for European male and female solo travellers... If your debit card is a Maestro card - just Maestro and doesn't have the Mastercard logo on it - you will only be able to use ATMs to get cash. Unfortunately, these Maestro cards cannot be used to make payments in stores in New Zealand. Your debit card needs to have a Mastercard or Visa logo on it.

11. Solo female travel New Zealand is common

Men and women alike choose New Zealand as a place to travel on their own. Solo travel here is super common. If you are hoping you will blend in and not stick out like a sore thumb, you will find New Zealand is the place for you. So many people travel on their own here that you can go about your business and no one will think twice about your solo status. No worries.

12. Travelling alone doesn’t mean you have to be alone

Many people travel alone so they can do as they wish without having to worry about someone else. Just because someone likes to enjoy the solitude of their own company doesn’t mean that they have to be alone the entirety of the trip. The best part of travelling alone means you get to choose when and where to meet or hang out with others. When the time is right to socialize, there are always plenty of other solo travellers on campsites or in hostels willing to make a new life-long or short-term travel friend. Either way, when you are ready not to be alone, the travellers in New Zealand will embrace you with open arms.

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8 Things to Consider When Travelling Solo in New Zealand

Written by: Robert Helms

When you travels, it could be done in a group or as a solo traveller. And either of the two has its own disadvantages as well as advantages. However, in my opinion, if you're looking for peace of mind and are planning on some soul searching, traveling solo is better.

New Zealand is one of the known safe countries for solo travelers. The locals there are known to be friendly and places are accessible to get around. There are also loads of other solo travellers, so it's not hard to meet new friends. Staying in shared accommodation, like hostels, is a great idea for solo travellers who want to feel safe.

Listed below are eight things you need to consider when traveling solo in New Zealand. Read on and be confident before you book that flight!

1. Know the Best Time to Visit New Zealand

The best time to travel to New Zealand depends on your preference of course. The summer season is between December to February. And most activities are available during this time, which makes the prices go significantly higher than usual.

March to May is the fall season and is known to be the most romantic season to take advantage of. With its crisp color of rustic browns, reds, and golden leaves, some say it is the best time to take things slow and plan less itinerary if touring around is not really the objective of your travel.

The winter season is from June to August and is best for skiing activities. Spring, which is from September to November, is known to have fewer tourists, plus the weather is perfect ‒ not too cold and not too humid.

Check out this Complete Backpacking Guide to New Zealand

2. Plan the Places You Want to Visit

New Zealand’s geographical location includes a vast area of mountainous or steep hills as well as volcanic peaks. Therefore, planning the places you want to visit strategically is really a must.

Soon as you decide which time you wanted to visit the country and book that plane ride, the next thing to do is list down the tourist spots you want to see. Jot down its location and opening and closing times, so you won’t waste any traveling time and effort.

Always keep in mind its geographical location when calculating travel time. Unfortunately, there are times when Google Maps can not be completely trusted.

3. Stay in Hostels

Traveling solo does not mean that you have to stay on your own all the time. You can open your doors to new acquaintances while on a trip by staying in hostels.

This type of accommodation offers communal areas, even rooms that mimic a school dormitory. When travelling solo finding a hostel that offers daily or nightly activities is a great way to meet new people.

If staying in a room with a total stranger does not entice you at all, then maybe you can settle for other spaces such as the dining room, kitchen, or TV lounge to socialize with new faces.

4. Pack Appropriately

The things and clothes you bring with you would depend on the time of the year of your visit. One thing that travelers do not find amusing is spending unnecessary money on extra baggage items. Therefore make sure to pack whatever is only necessary.

5. Pack Some Playing Cards

Playing cards are the safest and easiest item to bring as an ice breaker. You may not be a very good conversation starter, but you may be an amazing card player.

Staying in a hostel where new faces are inevitable, playing cards could serve as your holy grail and a saving grave when boredom already strikes.

6. Make Sure to Keep Your Stuff Safe

When you travel alone, you tend to always be in the front foot when it comes to taking care of yourself and your belongings. You have no one to trust your safety into but yourself. And actually, that sense of keeping your stuff safe comes handy.

Remember that no matter how safe it is to travel around to New Zealand, you are still in a foreign land.

7. Socialize in a Local Bar

You have your own reasons why you chose to travel solo. You may want to have some time on your own to reflect, or just simply take each day easy. However, this does not mean you have to limit yourself and be very strict about staying alone. Head to the hostel bar, or a local backpacker bar to get to know some new people.

Use this time to also be freely open with any opportunities that come your way. May it be the start of a new friendship or maybe a new possibility of finding “the one” on this trip.

5 Reasons The Friends You Meet Travelling Are For Life

8. Travel With a Backpacker Tour

One way of relieving stress and making the most of your solo travel is to join a backpacker tour. Not only do you avoid having to plan each day of your travels but you have a busload of other backpackers to make friends with, many of which will also be solo backpackers looking to make new friends.

Why I Chose Kiwi Experience As A Solo Traveller

Solo travel gives a great sense of accomplishment and confidence. These will only be achieved though if you come prepared and be well-equipped with the necessary information to your place of destination.

Author: Robert Helms writes on behalf of Cleaning Exec, a House Cleaning NYC service, amongst other companies. When not writing for clients, he spends most of his time on DIY projects that can make his 800 sqft. apartment a home.

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New Zealand Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

200 new zealand tours for singles / solo travelers with 308 reviews.

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NEW ZEALAND – 10 Days Highlights of North and South Islands

Everything was very well organized and according to the description on the site, all transfers, attractions and accomodation. Hotels were well chosen (with one exception), clean and comfortable, guided tours had very knowledgeable and professional guides, busses of good quality. i was well informed about each step through the app. My questions were answered almost immediately through whatsapp. The only improvement point i can see is the chosen accomodation in Franz Josef (Montrose hostel): the room was not clean (bedsheet not changed, with hair on pillows and quilt) and the receptionist attitude very unpolite; i found myself another last minute accomodation and paid extra for it. All in all, thank you for a great experience in a beautiful country.

New Zealand South Island Express

Great tour! We got to see so many places in such a short amount of time, and I had a great time. Made some friends during the whole time! Will be heading to see the North Island next year! I’m already looking forward to exploring! ????????

New Zealand's North Island Adventure (Southbound)

loved this tour!!! great value for money and had the best time ever. did it over christmas and what a great way to spend christmas. would recommend to anyone

Sweet As South (Westbound, 9 Days)

Great experience for this tour.. would rate this as 5stars.. made new friends along the way

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights in New Zealand North Island Escorted Coach Tour

Except for Cordis, Hotels could have been better. Tour guide, driver and sights weee excellent

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Southern Spectacular (10 Days)

Great itinerary and guide. Hotels and food excellent.

Premium New Zealand North Island (8 destinations)

Summer did an excellent job guiding us around and telling us all about her home country.

Southern Spotlight (9 Days)

Isobel was an outstanding tour guide, full of amazing and interesting information, funny, down to earth, a wonderful story teller, competent, organised, nice to everyone. We've done two other Trafalgar bus tours and she has been our favourite tour guide. Darrell was a superb bus driver, always calm, navigating different terrains and weather with ease. We felt 100% safe in his competent hands. I liked that so much of the good stuff was included in the tour, e.g. the cruise on Milford Sound, and the wonderful ferry ride and dinner on the farm in Queenstown. It was fast paced, but we did cover an incredible amount in 8 days.

Sweet As South (Eastbound, 9 Days)

Highlights of New Zealand

Plus: Website was easy to use Minus: Didn't get as much info as we could have had we booked directly with G Adventures

New Zealand Northern Trail (Southbound)

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow

Ski New Zealand: 8 Day South Island Snow Safari (Christchurch to Queenstown)

10 Day South Island National Parks

Fantastic! I was pleased with the accommodations, especially at Mt Cook. I love that I was in the motel where I could walk in and out from my room sit and see the snow top Mtns while I soaked up the warm sun (22 C).

• Hiking & Trekking

New Zealand West Coast Adventure

New Zealand Journey National Geographic Journeys

great trip and tour of NZ

What people love about New Zealand Solo Tours

New Zealand and my itinerary was perfect! I had to be efficient since I only had 10 days and wanted to see both islands of NZ. The Highlights Tour put together by Bucket List Tours was exactly what I was hoping for and it exceeded my expectations. Before leaving the US, Bucket List Tours connected with me and made sure we were able to communicate throughout my trip via WhatsApp. And that was super helpful since there were a number of times where I was able to clarify logistical items on the itinerary to ensure such things as being at the right pickup locations for scheduled day tours. Bucket Lisr Tours was always very responsive and helped me do everything I had on my list for New Zealand. I would highly recommend Bucket List Tours to anyone and am already planning on using them again in the future!

Great tour! We got to see so many places in such a short amount of time, and I had a great time. Made some friends during the whole time! Will be heading to see the North Island next year! I’m already looking forward to exploring! ??

Snowy, our guide was the best that could be. Safe in his hands. Real dincum n. Zealander. Beautiful country. Wish i lived there.

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WANDERLUST SOLO WOMEN TOURS

Authentic, boutique, women-only retreats, tours, and travel experiences with a difference. 

Where you travel like a local not a tourist, empowering women to build confidence and friendships through travel..

TRAVEL COACHING

Ready to unlock the magic of solo female travel, wanderlust solo women tours is all about empowering you to spread your wings,, boost your confidence, and dive headfirst into purposeful adventures, while making lifelong connections and, of course, having an absolute blast, rediscovher yourself in a fun, safe, and supportive environment., join us in new zealand, bali, and beyond..

Why travel with me?

My travel experiences are all about empowering and supporting you to travel more confidently. , as a passionate advocate for solo women travelers, i am dedicated to empowering and building confidence for women of all ages to explore the world fearlessly. , i facilitate unforgettable, fun, purposeful journeys of self-discovery, connection, and growth, through authentic travel experiences, retreats, and personalized travel coaching, to date empowering over 130 women to embark on their adventures. , with wanderlust solo women tours, your journey from apprehension to empowerment, from self-doubt to self-discovery, begins now. , crafting your travel story together and redefining the way you experience the world. .

Having a fun and engaging experience is our priority. Bring out that inner child and enjoy a lot of laughs along the way.

It is very important you have a balance of activities and down-time. Where you get to engage but also recharge your batteries.

My travel experiences are designed for you to connect with yourself and the stunning environment around you.

Belonging is a very important part of our experiences, where you feel safe, included, supported and part of a magic community.

Women from all walks of life and no matter their age are warmly welcome to start their travel journey with me and come for many reasons:

Tired of waiting for someone to travel with., wanting to share amazing adventures with like-minded souls., are just not that confident to travel solo, yet, embark on your solo journey with confidence., i am here to enable you to take out some well-deserved time for yourself and remember how to live joyfully and rediscovher the true you through travel., our small group size and boutique style allow for genuine connections and an authentic personal travel experience., where you come along as a stranger but leave as a friend., sharing the love – reviews.

“Gina is an amazing person with a beautiful heart. Her love of Bali really shone through on this trip ! Her attention to detail and including a range of activities, from E biking to temple blessings, to the perfect amount of down time, is what made the Bali Bliss Retreat a holiday I will cherish always. Her down to earth vibe attracts like minded souls, and our group bonded seamlessly. Thank you for being part of my first solo travel experience “

“ Exceptional winter escape weekend! WSWT’s have managed to strike the perfect balance with planned activities & pure relaxation time. Spectacular food enjoyed throughout the weekend, combined with a wonderful warm personal approach makes Wanderlust Solo Women Tours a perfect package.”

“ Spent a fabulous weekend in Waihi with Gina and 5 other ladies at The Log Cabin. Gina is a great host. The food was amazing, the venue was cosy and welcoming. Itinerary for the weekend had a great mix of activities and free time. Loved the pottery this was so much fun. Great to see a part of the country that I’d not seen before. Highly recommend booking in a trip with Gina. Can’t wait for the Bali one”

Get to know me:

I’m Gina the woman behind Wanderlust Solo Women Tours.

I was inspired to encourage and facilitate women’s travel after my own trans-formative experiences whilst exploring the world solo later in life.

I know the hesitations, the aspirations, and the exhilarating joy that solo travel can bring. 

After overcoming personal challenges and embarking on solo adventures in my 40s and 50s, I found empowerment, confidence, community, and purpose through travel.

 I discovered that change wasn’t just about changing location; it was about transforming my perspective. Through embracing the unknown, I embraced my own happiness. 

Travel had not only built and instilled confidence but also connected me with a community where I finally belonged. 

These experiences resonated deeply, leading me to create a movement of empowerment for solo female travel and to share soul-centered journeys. To help women overcome any fears or reservations that hold them back and step into their power of purposeful travel. 

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We’re proud to be part of JourneyWoman’s Verified Partner Program, which tells women that our services are women-friendly. 

JourneyWoman™  is the most beloved and respected women’s travel brand in the world, helping women travel safely and well for almost 30 years.

Please review your experience with us on the  JourneyWoman  Woman’s Travel Directory.

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Unleashing the Wonders of Female Solo Travel in New Zealand

Female Solo Travel in New Zealand –  Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and adventure has never been more empowering, especially when it comes to female solo travel in New Zealand . In recent years, this picturesque destination has emerged as a haven for intrepid solo female travelers seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled experiences.

10 Best Female Solo Travel Destinations in New Zealand

1. fiordland national park: nature’s majesty.

Nestled in the southwest corner of the South Island, Fiordland National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. With its majestic fjords, towering peaks, and pristine lakes, this destination offers a captivating blend of solitude and awe-inspiring landscapes. Immerse yourself in the serenity as you explore the renowned Milford Sound or hike the Kepler Track.

2. Queenstown: Adventure Capital

For the adventurous souls, Queenstown is the epitome of adrenaline-pumping activities. From bungee jumping off the historic Kawarau Bridge to exploring the vibrant Queenstown Gardens, this bustling town ensures an unforgettable solo adventure. Capture the essence of thrill while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.

3. Abel Tasman National Park: Coastal Bliss

Experience the sheer beauty of New Zealand’s coastline at Abel Tasman National Park. Ideal for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure, the park boasts golden beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a variety of hiking trails. Whether kayaking along the coast or unwinding on the pristine beaches, Abel Tasman is a paradise for solo female travelers.

4. Rotorua: Cultural Extravaganza

Immerse yourself in the rich Maori culture in Rotorua, located on the North Island. Explore geothermal wonders, indulge in traditional Maori cuisine, and witness the powerful Haka performances. Rotorua offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders, making it a must-visit for solo female travelers.

5. Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A Trekker’s Dream

For those craving an epic trek, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a spectacular journey through volcanic terrains. Marvel at the emerald lakes, steaming vents, and ancient lava flows as you conquer this world-renowned trail. This challenging yet rewarding trek promises an unforgettable solo adventure amidst New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes.

6. Wanaka: Serenity by the Lake

Escape the hustle and bustle in the serene town of Wanaka. Set against the backdrop of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by mountains, this destination offers a perfect blend of tranquility and outdoor activities. Explore the picturesque landscapes, try your hand at water sports, or simply unwind by the lake – Wanaka is a hidden gem for solo female travelers.

7. Christchurch: Garden City Charms

Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch invites solo female travelers to discover its charming parks, botanical gardens, and cultural heritage. Explore the vibrant art scene, indulge in local delicacies at the Riverside Market, and take a leisurely punt ride along the Avon River. Christchurch offers a delightful mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

8. Dunedin: Scottish Heritage

Dunedin, with its Scottish heritage and Victorian architecture, is a city steeped in history and charm. Solo female travelers can wander through the historic streets, visit the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, and marvel at the unique wildlife on the Otago Peninsula. Discover the cultural richness and timeless elegance of this southern gem.

9. Kaikoura: Marine Wonderland

For a unique blend of marine wildlife and coastal beauty, Kaikoura is a must-visit destination. Solo female travelers can partake in whale-watching excursions, swim with dolphins, and savor freshly caught seafood. The rugged beauty of Kaikoura’s coastline provides an unforgettable backdrop for an enriching solo travel experience.

10. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Alpine Splendor

The majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park beckons solo female travelers to explore its alpine wonders. Home to New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, this national park offers a range of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes to stargazing. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Southern Alps for a truly awe-inspiring adventure.

Embracing the Spirit of Independence

The allure of solo travel.

Solo travel, once considered unconventional, is now a trend gaining momentum, with women leading the way. The freedom that comes with exploring new horizons alone is unparalleled. In the realm of solo travel, New Zealand stands out as a top choice for women seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility.

Safety Measures for Solo Female Travelers

Ensuring safety is paramount, and New Zealand takes this responsibility seriously. With its low crime rate and friendly locals, it offers a secure environment for solo female travelers. Well-lit streets , reliable public transportation, and a culture that respects personal space contribute to the overall sense of security.

Navigating the Stunning Landscapes

Exploring new zealand’s natural wonders.

New Zealand’s landscapes are nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the pristine beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula to the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps, every corner of the country beckons with breathtaking beauty. Solo female travelers can revel in the freedom of choosing their own path, whether it’s hiking through Fiordland National Park or basking in the tranquility of Lake Tekapo.

Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Venture beyond the tourist hotspots, and you’ll discover New Zealand’s hidden gems. The Catlins Coastal Track offers a secluded hiking experience, while the Otago Peninsula provides a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Embracing the off-the-beaten-path destinations adds a sense of exclusivity to the solo female traveler’s adventure.

Cultural Immersion and Authentic Experiences

Connecting with the kiwi culture.

New Zealand’s rich Maori heritage and vibrant contemporary culture create a unique tapestry that solo female travelers can immerse themselves in. Engaging with the welcoming locals, participating in traditional ceremonies, and savoring indigenous cuisine all contribute to a memorable and enriching experience.

Art and Creativity in New Zealand

For those with an artistic inclination, New Zealand’s cities are a treasure trove of creativity. Wellington, known as the “Coolest Little Capital,” boasts a thriving arts scene, while Christchurch’s street art adds a vibrant touch to the cityscape. Solo female travelers can indulge in art galleries, live performances, and cultural events that showcase the country’s dynamic creativity.

Practical Tips for a Seamless Solo Adventure

Accommodation options.

New Zealand caters to a spectrum of accommodation preferences, ensuring solo female travelers can find a comfortable and secure place to stay. From boutique hotels in major cities to cozy bed and breakfasts nestled in scenic locales, options abound for every taste and budget.

Transportation Insights

Navigating New Zealand is a breeze, thanks to a well-connected and efficient transportation system. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace, while intercity buses offer a cost-effective and scenic mode of travel. Additionally, domestic flights efficiently connect different regions for those looking to cover more ground.

In the realm of female solo travel in New Zealand , the possibilities are as vast as the landscapes themselves. The spirit of adventure, coupled with the warm hospitality of the Kiwis, creates an environment where every solo female traveler can craft a journey that is uniquely hers. New Zealand beckons, offering an extraordinary canvas for women seeking to explore, discover, and embrace the wonders of solo travel .

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Solo female travel in Alexandra

Travel rating.

Based on our research

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Is Alexandra good for solo travel?

Safety: Very safe

Transport: Easy

Things to do: Interesting

Food: Average

Budget: Moderate

Is alexandra worth visiting, explore new zealand.

Christchurch

Waiheke Island

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Overthought This

Experienced Solo Traveler Shares Top Destinations for Women Traveling Alone

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Women are often conditioned to believe that we need a companion to not only enjoy traveling but also stay safe. While this may be true for some women, you don’t need to let these factors stop you from getting out and living your life to the fullest by exploring new places.

As a female solo traveler myself, I know firsthand that it’s imperative to stay vigilant while traveling, especially in certain areas or at certain times. There are precautions I always take, but I prefer to embrace travel as any solo male would. I’ve logged a lot of trips so far, and on my journeys, I’ve found some places to be more friendly, safe, and fun for women traversing the globe alone. 

Here are 16 of my best destination recommendations if you want to set off to see the world with just you, your passport, and your bags by your side.

1. Switzerland

I mention Switzerland first because it was my very first solo travel destination, and it’s no surprise that it should be at the top of your list, too. Switzerland has been ranked as the number one safest travel destination for women in 2024 by iVisa , with only a mere 2% of women having reported violence.

Aside from its magnificent scenery and decadent chocolate, Switzerland is a country with strong infrastructure, a bustling economy, and a reliable public transportation system that boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world. This makes it an excellent place to start your solo travel journey.

2. Scotland

Another country that should score highly on your solo female traveler list is Scotland, also one of my personal favorites. Well known for its breathtaking natural wonders, renowned whisky distilleries, and looming historical castles, Scotland is the perfect destination for those wanting to get an authentic, immersive experience. 

The locals in Scotland are known to be particularly welcoming and friendly toward foreigners, making it a perfect place for solo travelers. From the beautiful historic cities to the impressive landscapes of the Highlands to the spectacular Scottish Isles dotting the coastlines, there’s never a dull moment when visiting the glorious lands of Scotland. 

3. New Zealand

New Zealand may be known for its incredible landscapes, but it’s undoubtedly more than that. As a female solo traveler, you can feel confident in adding New Zealand to your next adventure—it also ranks in iVisa’s top 20 safest countries for women to travel. 

From vast, heavenly beaches in the north to a snowy dream in the south, it’s no wonder New Zealand is such a popular destination for solo travel. The people of New Zealand, including the Indigenous Māori people, are known to be exceptionally warm and welcoming. Many locations offer female-only hostels as well, which makes it even more attractive to females traveling alone. Don’t miss out on a solo trip to New Zealand.

As one of the safest and most hospitable countries in the world, you don’t want to miss out on an excursion through Iceland. Especially known for its progressive stance on women’s and LGBTQIA+ rights, it’s a fantastic destination for solo female travelers. 

You can feel safe walking through the capital of Reykjavik even at night, as well as on public transportation if you decide to take an island tour. Bask in the beauty of cascading waterfalls, dip in the lagoon, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Iceland’s safety has an extra layer, too: no animal predators dangerous to humans exist there. In Iceland, you’re sure to thoroughly enjoy your stay.

This unique island isn’t high on most travelers’ radar, but it certainly deserves a place on your next itinerary. Divided in two between Greeks in the south and Turks in the north, Cyprus is a place authentically rich in culture, cuisine, language, and beautiful scenery.

As a solo female traveler, Cyprus easily tops my list. I fell deeply in love with the seaside charm, the ancient ruins, the striking cliffside villas, the protected stray cats roaming the streets, the delicious fusion of foods, and so much more. Beyond this, however, it is an extremely safe country and I never once felt out of place amongst the numerous friendly people I met.

Given the exceptionally respectful and orderly nature of Japanese culture, it’s no wonder Japan bodes well for solo female travelers. You’ll rarely have to worry about someone invading your personal space—Japan takes courtesy quite seriously. It’s even commonly known that you can leave personal belongings such as a purse or laptop unattended without fear of items being stolen (but, I don’t recommend it).

From the aromatic pink cherry blossom trees to pristinely manicured gardens and temples to the unparalleled metropolitan paradise, Japan absolutely deserves a spot on your next itinerary if you are solo traveling as a woman.

Ranking #4 in iVisa’s safest countries, Finland is a cozy winter delight for any solo female traveler. Frequently noted as the “world’s happiest country,” you can count on this likely being true for you as a solo female traveler as well. Petty crimes, theft, and harassment are extremely rare in Finland.

With its luxurious culture of saunas to its moniker “Land of a Thousand Lakes” to the Lapland ski resorts and Northern Lights, you’ll be in paradise if you are an outdoors enthusiast. Another fun fact about Finland: it was the first country in Europe to give women the right to vote. That sounds pretty good to me as a solo female traveler.

Romania is one of the best hidden gems, and for solo female travelers, it is remarkably safe. As my third solo travel excursion, Romania holds a special place in my heart as I’ve now made it my home abroad. During my time living and traversing through Romania, I have never once encountered a dangerous situation and always appreciate the kind nature of the locals.

From the Carpathians to the Danube Delta to the vast Black Sea, there is plenty to do in Romania whether you want a chill experience or an adventure. No matter where your trip takes you, it is also astonishingly affordable. Traditional food is plentiful and you will undoubtedly love the rich culture. As far as safety rankings go, Romania boasts low crime rates, including pickpocketing and street assault. Run, don’t walk, to buy those tickets to Romania.

9. South Korea

Because of its societal expectations toward courtesy and rule-following, South Korea is very safe and, indeed, a great solo travel choice for women. Ranking in the top 25 safest countries, South Korea also possesses a robust police presence that is widely known to be extraordinarily attentive to emergencies. 

Your options for things to do in South Korea are endless. Enjoy the contemporary vibes of the cities, dance at one of the famous nightclubs, or try delicious foods at one of the many markets. I would not recommend South Korea for first-time solo travelers, however—it can be a bit more difficult to navigate. Nonetheless, it is certainly worthy of a visit after you’ve packed some experience in your bags.

The small but mighty nation of Malta is perhaps one of my personal favorite destinations as a solo female traveler. Travel Ladies App ranks Malta the #2 safest country for solo female travel. Malta may not have entered your mind while searching for plane tickets, but I wholeheartedly urge you to add it to your list. 

In studies that measured safety statistics, Malta turned out very high for safety in areas such as walking at night, street harassment, and petty crimes, making it especially advantageous for female solo travelers. With its extraordinary history, sparkling seaside beaches, and winding streets, Malta is a truly wonderful destination.

11. Singapore

Another jewel located in southeast Asia, Singapore is widely famous for its cleanliness, luxury, efficiency, and—you guessed it—safety. Known as “The Lion City,” Singapore is a metropolitan wonderland full of many unique places to explore. As a solo female traveler, it should top your list as it has been ranked as the #14 safest country .

Due to stringent regulations and security measures such as heavy law enforcement presence, Singapore boasts an extremely low crime rate. Head to Singapore for a truly exquisite trip filled with gorgeous skylines, extravagant shopping malls, and traditional cuisine you won’t soon forget.

12. Georgia (the country)

Georgia, a country often confused with the U.S. state of Georgia, is a seriously underrated travel destination that certainly tops my personal list of favorites. Straddled between Europe and Asia, Georgia provides an intricate medley of culture, cuisine, and scenery.

What you may also not know about Georgia is that it ranks #20 on the list of safest countries, making it an excellent location for your next solo adventure. From the magnificent Caucasus Mountains to the shores of the Black Sea, this little country is full of friendly faces and lots of places to explore.

13. Botswana

Did you think Africa wouldn’t make the list? Think again. Botswana, a country once bound by colonization, has now progressed significantly over time and currently has the steadiest democracy in all of Africa. It offers a diverse array of options for solo travelers due to its good safety score and friendly locals, which bodes well for solo travel.

You can catch a glimpse of African wildlife such as zebras, elephants, or hippos on a safari, experience a “mokoro” canoe ride, or even partake in a traditional communal dinner. However, it’s worth the minor warning that you may have a harder time getting around in Botswana due to poor road conditions, so be prepared. Otherwise, Botswana absolutely should be on your itinerary.

14. Costa Rica

Scoring high at #25 in Travel Ladies’ list of safest countries, Costa Rica is a dazzling location to consider for your next solo trip. Known for its lush, exotic jungles teeming with wildlife and the jewel-toned sapphire seawaters, Costa Rica should definitely make your travel list. 

Don’t go just for the tropical vibes, though. Costa Rica is a superb destination to get a rich taste of Central American culture and cuisine as well. With its divine blend of Latin and Caribbean influences, there’s a lot to love about this place. Costa Rica is also known to be one of the friendliest countries in the region toward women, which means you’ll feel comfortable almost anywhere you go in this delightful country.

15. Montenegro

Another coveted favorite of mine as a solo female traveler is Montenegro. A true hidden gem, Montenegro will not only help protect your wallet but may well protect you in your travels as well. Ranked #12 safest country, Montenegro has a lot to offer from its glittering sea views (which are easily comparable to Italy or Greece), astounding mountain hikes, and historically quaint seaside towns.

Montenegro is a must if you love any of these aspects of a vacation destination with the extra perk of relative safety. Mark this one down on your bucket list before everyone else picks up on its splendor and it becomes a tourist trap.

16. Portugal

This phenomenal country might be toward the bottom of this list, but that doesn’t mean it should be at the bottom of your travel plans. Portugal, ranked #3 for safest countries by Travel Ladies, has a lot to behold for female solo travelers.

Your wallet will thank you as you traverse Portugal, as it is known to be one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe. On top of that, the safety ratings are excellent. Whether you choose to roam the streets of Lisbon, visit the relaxing beaches of the Azores, or explore the magnificence of Sintra National Park. You’ll never be bored in Portugal, so be sure to include it in your next plans.

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Travel is by no means a cure-all; however, with the right goals in mind, it can be very healing.

• Here’s what you need to keep in mind for how traveling can spark growth.

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