New Zealand has the most jaw-dropping landscapes, a playground for endless adventures. Even though the country is small, it is truly packed with must-see attractions that attract thousands of travellers from around the globe every year. If you are also planning to visit the country but want to know how to experience New Zealand like a local and not just a tourist, you have come to the right place.  My New Zealand Travel guide is FULL of spots only the "locals" know about across the country.  Check it out HERE

Nothing compares to the feeling of exploring any destination like a local. You get a chance to see a completely different side of the country when you let go of the tourist facade and blend in with the locals. No doubt there is thrill and joy in exploring and experiencing the famous attractions and things in New Zealand. But UK travellers who want a closer glimpse of local lifestyle and culture have started to go beyond the well-known attractions. If you want to have this experience too, keep reading this blog. 

Tips to Experience New Zealand Like a Local 

Let’s go through some helpful tips that will help you explore New Zealand like a local. 

Ditch the Hotels & Stay With the Locals

Resorts and hotels are very tourist-like. If you want to experience the country like a local, you should stay in family-opt lodges, farm stays, or Airbnb homes. The hosts of these places are not just hosts but also storytellers who share endless tales about the area, its locals, and its culture. 

If you decide to stay at a farmhouse or a vineyard, you will get a chance to experience the most authentic Kiwi life. It is truly an immersive experience that no one would want to miss. You can also stay at a bach (holiday home) near the beach, which is usually preferred only by locals and offers an authentic experience. 

Shop at Weekend Markets

New Zealand is known for its weekend markets. Every town in the country, from Auckland to Wanaka, has its own local market. These markets offer fresh produce, local handicrafts, and beautiful coffee carts. Locals love visiting these markets to catch up. Local musicians also showcase their talents in these markets, which is always an exciting experience. 

One of the best things about these weekend markets is the fresh local produce. You will get a chance to try some delicious produce and flavours, such as Manuka honey, whitebait fritters, and artisan cheeses that New Zealand is known for. Some of the famous weekend markets that you must visit include the Matakana Village Farmer’s Market (Auckland), Nelson Market, and the Riverside Market (Christchurch). 

Always Take the Scenic Route

You can never go wrong with the scenic route, even if it's the road less travelled by tourists. Another tip is to travel slowly. You must not worry about rushing to the destination. This is not what the locals do. Locals love savouring each step of the journey and taking in the raw natural beauty of New Zealand’s glorious landscapes. 

When you travel by road, you also get a chance to stop by various hidden gems and small towns. You can never go wrong with scenic highways like the Southern Alps route (Arthur’s Pass) or the coastal drive from Kaikōura to Picton. Also, as you drive through these highways, stop for a fresh pie at a local bakery or chat with locals at a country pub. This is what adds to the experience.

Tara's Tip:  The best things in New Zealand are at the end of a gravel road.  So if you hit gravel roads as you travel - keep on going as it is about to get good!

Discover Māori Culture with Respect

Māori culture is a prominent part of New Zealand’s culture and lifestyle. You cannot visit the country and say you have explored it like a local without getting a closer glimpse of this rich culture. Listening to the legends that connect these indigenous people to the land. Also, you can interact with these people or even visit a marae (meeting ground) with a guide. 

If you are more interested in the Māori culture, you can also join a Māori carving and weaving workshop. It will surely make you feel like you are part of the community. Also, visit Te Puia (Rotorua) for geothermal wonders and cultural performances. 

Eat Like a Local

You can never have the most authentic taste of the destination while eating at tourist-packed restaurants. The most authentic flavours can be tasted in street food and at places preferred by locals. Kiwis love indulging in fresh, hearty meals. And if you follow them to their favourite spots, you will get a chance to treat yourself to some really delicious food. 

Some of the local favourites include fish and chips on the beach, a classic Kiwi flat white, and a Sunday roast or pavlova. Also, you can never go wrong with a treat from the Farmer’s cafes and the local bakeries. These are the places that serve staples of Kiwi cuisine and always deliver fresh, enticing flavours. 

Final Words

Many people visit New Zealand for its raw natural beauty and adventurous landscapes, and because it is among the highly anticipated party holiday destinations. But there is much more to the country that you get a chance to explore when you travel as a local. Ditching the tourist ways to explore a destination opens an entirely different yet fascinating side of the country. Even if you want to visit the country for its party scenes, you will have a more authentic and immersive experience if you travel like a local. 

Grab my New Zealand travel guide before you go! Check it out HERE