New Zealand By Thumb

Let’s Go never recommends hitchhiking as a safe means of transportation, and none of the information presented here is intended to do so.

Let’s Go strongly urges you to consider the risks before you choose to hitchhike. Some visitors to New Zealand, particularly backpackers, rely on hitchhiking as a primary mode of transport and express satisfaction with its safety and convenience. Others, however, report that hitchhiking is much less safe than it used to be, especially for women traveling alone. A man and a woman are a safer combination when hitchhiking; two men may have a harder time finding a ride. No matter how safe or friendly New Zealanders may be, you should always think seriously before entrusting your life to a stranger, as you risk suffering an accident, theft, assault, or worse. Exercise caution if you elect to hitch: don’t get into the back of a two-door car; when waiting for a ride, stand in a well-lit, public place; start early in the day and avoid hitchhiking at night; finally, never hitchhike alone. Even at the risk of offending the driver, do not put your pack in the trunk; you might not get it back. If you ever feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to politely but firmly ask to be let off.

If you decide to hitch, it is reported to be easiest just beyond the end of a town’s residential area, but before the open highway. Hitchhiking is illegal on highways. Hitchers report increasing their chances of getting a ride by choosing a spot on the side of the road with ample space for a car to pull over. They walk backwards with the traffic with their thumbs out and try to make eye contact with the driver. They report that it is easier to be picked up if you hold a sign indicating your desired destination and they advise against accepting offers that will leave you in a small town, short of your goal.