New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for travellers. While many choose to travel with friends or family, solo travel in New Zealand is also an incredible experience. In this blog post, we will explore some opinions people have had about solo travel in New Zealand and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of travelling alone in this beautiful country.
Advantages of Solo Travel in New Zealand
- Freedom and Flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of travelling alone in New Zealand is the freedom and flexibility it provides. You can plan your itinerary and activities according to your interests and preferences without having to worry about anyone else’s schedule or needs.
- Personal Growth: Solo travel is a great way to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. It can help you develop confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills as you navigate a new country on your own.
- Making New Connections: When you’re travelling alone, you’re more likely to interact with locals and fellow travellers, which can lead to meaningful connections and friendships. You may even meet other solo travellers and embark on new adventures together.
- Lower Costs: Travelling alone in New Zealand can be more cost-effective than travelling with a group or partner. You have more control over your budget and can opt for budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, and activities.
Disadvantages of Solo Travel in New Zealand
- Safety Concerns: While New Zealand is generally a safe country, solo travellers should still take precautions to stay safe. You may feel vulnerable travelling alone, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
- Loneliness and Homesickness: Solo travel can be isolating, especially if you’re used to being surrounded by friends and family. It’s important to take care of your mental health while travelling alone and stay connected with loved ones back home.
- Limited Resources: Travelling alone means you won’t have the support and resources of a travel companion. You’ll need to navigate transportation, accommodation, and activities on your own, which can be daunting for some.
Best ways to travel New Zealand as a solo traveller
New Zealand is a great destination for solo travel, with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and outdoor adventures. However, as a solo traveller, you may face some challenges, such as transportation, accommodation, and safety concerns. In this blog post, we will explore the best ways to travel in New Zealand as a solo traveller.
- Public Transportation: New Zealand has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, which is a great option for solo travellers. Buses and trains are widely available and can take you to most major cities and tourist destinations. Many bus companies also offer hop-on-hop-off passes, which allow you to explore the country at your own pace.
- Renting a Car or Camper Van: Renting a car or camper van is another popular option for solo travellers in New Zealand. It gives you the flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and set your own schedule. Camper vans are also a great way to save money on accommodation, as you can park in designated areas and sleep inside the vehicle.
- Joining a Tour Group: Joining a tour group is a great way to meet new people and explore the country with like-minded travellers. Many tour operators offer small-group tours that focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling. You can also find tours that cater to specific interests, such as food and wine or Maori culture.
- Using Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in major cities in New Zealand and can be a convenient option for solo travellers. However, they may be more expensive than public transportation or renting a car.
- Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is legal in New Zealand and is a popular option for backpackers and solo travellers on a tight budget. However, it’s important to take precautions and only hitchhike during the day and in well-lit areas.
In addition to choosing the right mode of transportation, solo travellers should also consider their accommodation options. Hostels and guesthouses are a great option for solo travellers as they offer affordable and social accommodation. Many hostels also offer organised activities and tours, making it easy to meet other travellers.
Finally, solo travellers should take precautions to stay safe while travelling in New Zealand. This includes avoiding travelling alone at night, being aware of your surroundings, and keeping valuable items such as passports and cash secure. It’s also a good idea to share your itinerary with someone back home and to keep in touch with friends and family regularly.
What to do as a solo traveller in New Zealand
New Zealand is a fantastic destination for solo travellers, with plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained. Here are some of the best activities to do as a solo traveller in New Zealand:
- Hiking: New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. Hiking is a great way to explore the country’s natural beauty and challenge yourself physically. Some of the best hikes in New Zealand include the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Milford Track, and Abel Tasman Coastal Track.
- Skydiving: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, skydiving in New Zealand is an unforgettable experience. You’ll have the opportunity to jump out of a plane and freefall over the country’s breathtaking scenery.
- Bungee jumping: New Zealand is also famous for bungee jumping, which was invented here in the 1980s. Bungee jumping can be a great way to face your fears and push yourself out of your comfort zone.
- Kayaking: New Zealand has a variety of kayaking opportunities, from paddling in calm lakes to navigating through whitewater rapids. Kayaking can be a peaceful and scenic way to explore the country’s waterways and wildlife.
- Maori cultural experiences: New Zealand’s indigenous Maori culture is an important part of the country’s history and identity. You can immerse yourself in Maori culture by attending a cultural show, visiting a marae (Maori meeting house), or trying traditional Maori cuisine.
- Wine tasting: New Zealand is known for its award-winning wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. You can visit vineyards and wineries throughout the country and sample some of the best wines New Zealand has to offer.
- Wildlife encounters: New Zealand is home to a unique array of wildlife, including kiwis, penguins, dolphins, and seals. You can join a wildlife tour or visit wildlife sanctuaries to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
- Surfing: New Zealand has some great surf breaks, particularly on the west coast of the North Island and the east coast of the South Island. As a solo traveller, surfing can be a great way to connect with nature and meet other like-minded travellers.
- Skiing and snowboarding: During the winter months, New Zealand’s ski resorts come alive with skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Hitting the slopes can be a fun and exhilarating way to experience the country’s alpine environment.
In conclusion, New Zealand offers a wide range of activities for solo travellers, from hiking and adventure sports to cultural experiences and wildlife encounters. With so much to see and do and with the right planning and preparation, solo travel in New Zealand can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
