If someone asked me whether I’d go hitchhiking, my instinctive answer would normally be: “No way.” But New Zealand changed that for me. Here, hitchhiking is not only surprisingly common—it’s also one of the most exciting ways to get around the country.
You are probably asking yourself – Is It Safe?
Safety is usually the first concern when people think about hitchhiking. And I get it—there’s no way I’d ever consider doing it in most countries. But New Zealand is different. There’s a strong culture of trust and openness here, especially among travellers and locals in smaller communities.
Of course, it’s important to use common sense:
- Hitchhike during daylight
- Stick to busier roads where you’ll actually be seen
- Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t get in
That said, in my experience, New Zealand is one of the safest places in the world to hitchhike.
My Own Experience
I have some colleagues and friends that do it on a regular basis and the have been highlighting how easy and fun it is, so I thought I should try it as well. When I first went for it, I was both nervous and curious. But as soon as the first car stopped for me, I realised it wasn’t just about getting from point A to B—it was about the people I’d meet along the way. Some drivers were locals with stories about their town, while others were fellow travellers sharing their own adventures. Each ride felt like a little glimpse into someone else’s world.
What surprised me was that hitchhiking here doesn’t feel strange—it’s almost normalised. Many backpackers use it to get around when travelling the country, especially in areas where public transport is limited. Hitchhiking becomes part of the adventure, not just a way to save money.
Even Carlos used to hitchhike a lot when he first moved here as he didn’t have a car, and he met such kind and helpful people that he still talks about this experience today. He has some fun stories to tell, especially about the people he met.
And it’s not just us being on the receiving end. We have also picked up hitchhikers ourselves when we saw people waiting on the side of the road. It feels good to give someone a ride, knowing we have been in the same situation before. It’s a little cycle of kindness that makes New Zealand travel so unique.
Other Ways to Get Around New Zealand
Of course, hitchhiking isn’t the only way to travel. Depending on your budget and how much flexibility you want, there are a few options:
- Buses – Intercity buses connect most towns and cities. They’re reliable, comfortable, and good for budget travellers, though they can be slow on longer routes
- Trains – New Zealand doesn’t have an extensive train network, but there are scenic long-distance journeys like the Northern Explorer (Auckland to Wellington), the TranzAlpine (Christchurch to Greymouth), and the Coastal Pacific (Picton to Christchurch). They’re more for the experience than everyday transport
- Domestic flights – With distances being long, many people fly between cities. Air New Zealand and Jetstar cover most routes, and flights are frequent
- Rental cars & campervans – Probably the most popular option for travellers. Having your own vehicle gives you freedom to explore at your own pace, especially in more remote areas
- Cycling – Not for everyone, but New Zealand has some incredible cycling routes, like the Otago Rail Trail, and many travellers use bikes for parts of their trip
Still, none of these quite capture the spontaneity and connection of hitchhiking.
Why It’s Exciting
Hitchhiking adds a layer of unpredictability to your travels. You never quite know who you’ll meet or where the conversation will lead. Some rides were quick and quiet, others were filled with laughter and great chats.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes—with a bit of caution. Hitchhiking in New Zealand isn’t for everyone, but if you’re adventurous and open-minded, it can be a fantastic way to see the country. You’ll meet interesting people, save on travel costs, and add a spark of spontaneity to your journey.
What about you, would you be up for it? If you have experienced it yourself, what is your story?