The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to New Zealand 

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.

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…