New Zealand is famous for its stunning natural landscapes and agritourism plays an integral part in this economy. Adventure sports ranging from bungee jumping to hiking are popular activities here.
Rural isolation has detrimental repercussions for health, so increasing recognition and valuing women’s contributions to farming businesses and rural communities could be one way of mitigating its adverse impacts.
1. Immerse yourself in local culture
New Zealand countryside holds a special magic that makes visitors feel at home even when far from their native homelands. Here, you can discover rich culture, tradition and an adventurous spirit – an irresistibly welcoming destination.
Farming industries have played an essential part in shaping New Zealand, so there is much to discover and discover from its history and present. From witnessing traditional performances such as powhiri at marae or taking an official guided tour through Te Papa, to simply admiring sights at heritage parks – you will gain a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s unique history!
Catlins may be lesser-visited corner of New Zealand, but its natural beauty more than makes up for that fact. From waterfalls gushing over rocks to an alien volcanic landscape that feels both surreal and soothing – explore them both by walking the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Valley or relaxing in Hell’s Gate therapeutic mud baths for an experience uniquely New Zealand!
2. Enjoy a scenic hike
New Zealand offers hiking trails suitable for any nature enthusiast or active getaway seeker – whether your focus is nature or an active adventure getaway! Renowned for its breathtaking scenery of jagged peaks, massive glaciers and other-worldly volcanic terrain, the Southern Alps boast panoramic mountain views across their 50-mile Tavers-Sabine loop or watching the sun set over Mount Cook from Mueller Hut.
Hiking trails offer something for every taste – from quick day walks to multi-day treks. Camping on remote beaches, cooling your feet in glacial streams or picnicking among alpine meadows are all part of the experience.
Hiking with other travelers is an ideal way to meet like-minded people when travelling solo, particularly if the company provides small group hiking tours that include meals, 4 star hotel/lodge accommodations, modern coach transportation and knowledgeable guides. Add activities for more exciting journeys! Alternatively, rent a car and explore at your own pace without the constraints of group hikes – New Zealand boasts its own vanlife culture with several car rental companies providing outfitted campervans!
3. Learn about local agriculture
New Zealand stands out as a truly ecologically intact country, and its transition toward regenerative agriculture makes it more resilient against future climate challenges. While livestock farming typically leaves behind high greenhouse gas footprints, Beef + Lamb New Zealand told TriplePundit that New Zealand’s grass-fed approach, temperate climate, and abundant rainfall create ideal conditions for regenerative agricultural practices – Beef + Lamb New Zealand told TriplePundit.
Your trip to New Zealand provides plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local agriculture in various forms. From learning the history and culture of rural living, to experiencing some hands-on activities like sheep mustering or whip cracking or milking farms first hand; you are certain to find an experience tailored exactly to you!
In some areas, community supported agriculture (CSA) initiatives and local food box delivery programs bring farmers directly into urban consumers. And for those curious to understand global trends in sustainable agriculture, EcoQuest provides an intensive fall and spring semester program bringing students into various agribusinesses in New Zealand while emphasizing ecological approaches to agriculture. Students explore new research on sustainable food systems as well as methods of aligning land use capability with environmental, economic and social objectives – an immersive educational experience!
4. Get a taste of rural life
New Zealand offers beautiful landscapes ideal for adventure seekers. Visitors can go skiing, rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and hiking as well as even bungee jumping! For those seeking an easier pace of life there are vineyard hotels or farm tours available as options.
Women have long played an essential role in maintaining rural communities and farming businesses, yet their contributions are often overlooked or underappreciated, with negative repercussions for food security and economic progress.
Visitors seeking a taste of rural life while traveling in New Zealand can stay at an organic farm or join WWOOFing programs; both offer fantastic ways of meeting local families and experiencing culture in this beautiful nation.
5. Make new friends
New Zealand is an ideal travel destination for backpackers, making it easy to meet people who share your interests. Joining local groups that support community projects may also be effective ways of making friends while volunteering can offer great insight into local culture.
Many hostels provide social activities as an excellent way for travellers to meet one another, from outdoor adventures and movie nights, to book discussion schemes at libraries – in which members read and discuss an assigned book monthly.
Experience rural life first-hand while working on a farm! Work can provide a wonderful glimpse of its stunning scenery and cultural traditions; even better is visiting one of the high country farms like Walter Peak High Country Farm for an immersive high country tour experience featuring farm and mountain views, accommodation options like 4-bed mixed dorm or single rooms, modern coach transport, as well as experienced guides!