New Zealand: Table for One?

By Valentina Calcagni, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia

My honest review of solo travelling New Zealand.

Solo traveling might seem daunting to some, but after spending 17 days exploring New Zealand on my own, I can confidently say it’s an experience for everyone. From the people you meet and the freedom of choosing your own schedule, to finding hidden gems, it’s a journey that offers something unique for every solo traveler. And honestly, what better place to do it than in the land of Middle Earth?

Here’s the route I took through New Zealand and what I would rate each location as a solo traveler:

Stop 1: Auckland

Rating: 2/10

No. Not for me. Was just a place to sleep whilst I waited to go to Hobbiton (which is why Auckland got 2, would have been 0 for me otherwise). That said, the views from the Sky Tower are lovely, and I’ve heard having a car can enhance your Auckland experience. I’m still not convinced though.

Stop 2: Rotorua

Rating: 8/10

Very beautiful place, but it loses two points due to one thing: the smell. Yes, you heard me right—the smell. Rotorua stinks, thanks to its geothermal activity and hydrogen sulfide emissions. The ground literally smokes with sulfuric gas. But once you get past the sulfuric scent, seeing the world’s natural smoke machine is actually pretty cool.

Step 3: Taupo

Rating: 8/10

Another incredibly scenic spot, and it has a McDonald’s inside a plane. Not sure who was asking for this, but I’m not complaining. You get to enjoy your Big Mac while seated in a plane, as if you’re about to take off into the sky—except the only turbulence you’ll experience is from your bank account.

Taupo is also home to the famous Huka Falls and is where people catch the shuttle to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 20km hike takes you through the dramatic filming landscapes of Mordor and Mount Doom (if you know, you know).

Stop 4: Wellington

Rating: 8/10

As someone who loves a coastal town, I might be a little biased in my rating here, but Wellington is a charming gem on the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. With its stunning waterfront views, cozy vibe, and plenty of character, it quickly became one of my favorites.

Don’t forget to catch the Wellington Cable car! Even if it does only last for 20 seconds…

Stop 5: Picton

Rating: 5/10

Picton was my first stop on New Zealand’s South Island. After a stunning scenic boat ride from the North Island, I was pleasantly surprised by how charming and laid-back the town was. With its quaint harbor and surrounding hills, it felt like the perfect introduction to the natural beauty and relaxed vibe of the South Island.

The reason it lost 5 points is because, without a car at least, there isn’t much to do. It’s definitely more of a place to pass through before continuing your journey through the South Island.

Stop 6: Nelson

Rating 6/10

I’d describe Nelson as a more vibrant, gentrified version of Picton. It has a bit more going on, with a livelier atmosphere and more people around. There are plenty of walks to enjoy, including the Centre of New Zealand walk, and the stunning Abel Tasman is just a short drive or shuttle ride away. It was definitely one of the most beautiful places I visited and one of the highlights of my trip. Not to mention some banging fish and chips freshly caught from Nelson harbor.

Stop 7: Franz Josef

Rating: 9/10

I really enjoyed the hikes in Franz Josef—unbelievably beautiful and exactly how I imagined New Zealand. It’s a place that truly encapsulates the wild beauty of the country.

Another unique experiences here is the glowworm caves, which are definitely worth checking out if you have the chance.

While I didn’t do the heli-hike, I’ve heard that the views from the air are insane, offering an entirely new view of the glacier and the dramatic landscape around it.

Stop 8: Queenstown

Rating 10/10

Queenstown was by far my favorite stop.

There’s something for every adrenaline junkie here, from bungee jumping, skygliding or even paragliding. As someone who isn’t great with heights, I still enjoyed paragling over Queenstown, even if I was crying in all my photos… They were happy tears, I swear.

From Queenstown, I also had the chance to visit Mount Cook and Milford Sound—both iconic, stunning, and absolutely essential stops on any New Zealand itinerary.

And, of course, the nightlife in Queenstown was so much fun. There’s always something happening, whether you’re looking to chill with a drink or dance with your new friends you’ve collected whilst travelling.

This wraps up my time in New Zealand! Each stop had its own unique charm, but Queenstown, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and Franz Josef were the true highlights of my journey. If you’re planning a solo trip or simply want to experience the best of what New Zealand has to offer, make sure not to miss these spots!