Has anyone travelled in New Zealand solo?

Question

I am seriously thinking about going to New Zealand in April, however unfortunately I would be going by myself if I go. I have travelled to many different countries by myself before, but I am kind of unsure if New Zealand caters very well to the solo traveller. My plan is to explore the country by car, I would have 2 weeks. Also, how hard is it to get lodging, do you normally have to book in advance? I would probably book my first couple days in Auckland, and then search for places as I go on and explore. Thanks for the information.

Answer 1

No trouble!

If you travel around your own country, you can travel around NZ, after all, NZers do it all the time.

You are probably safer in NZ than in your own country.

BUT

Remember one basic rule:

ALWAYS (not mostly,) ALWAYS DRIVE ON THE LEFT HAND SIDE OF THE ROAD.

The facilities can be utilised by one or any number of people.

Answer 2

My husband is a Kiwi and when I flew out there, I was alone.  They are some of the nicest, most considerate people on the planet.  I would say they are very good to solo travellers as it is the custom there and in Australia for people to go "walk-about" after they reach age 18 or so.  That's how my husband met me.  I would start out with a reservation, then ask around.  You may get invited somewhere off the beaten path!  If you are into Art Deco, you must go to Nelson, it was flattened by an earthquake and rebuilt in that time period.  There are the fiords and penguins on the South Island, on the West coast.  We lived in Christchurch, a very cool city with it's own wizard, you can find him in Canterbury Square, if he's still alive.  If you have any other questions, feel free to ask me.  Have a great time!  And try the marinated mussels, that's the one thing I miss the most that I can't have sent here.

Answer 3

I've driven around NZ many times on my own.  My brother had rental cars and camerpvans business and I was the one to relocate them from around NZ!

May I suggest the South Island - alot less crowded and the scenery is so much better.  Start from Nelson and drive all the way to Queenstown, or fly into Christchurch airport, drive up to Nelson on the east coast and drive back down on the west coast.  I lived in NZ for many years, but Auckland is a scary place to drive around on your own at night if you don't know the place.  If you are planning to stay at backpackers there is no real need to book in advance, there is plenty around, and if they do happen to be booked out (unlikely) the staff will ring around for you to find other accommodation, they are good like that.  2 weeks driving around the South Island would be great, you couldn't really take it al in, in any less time.

Answer 4

NEW ZEALAND IS s**y

Answer 5

hello i believe new zealand is a very safe country so it does cater for the solo traveler and in car the beater ..so much beauty to see!!good luck

Answer 6

I've driven and use public transport all over both islands.  The coach drivers are great and will drop you at places not designated if you ask them.  And don't be afraid to.  Same with pick ups, you ring a free number the day before and organize a seat.