New Zealand Women Travelers

Women exploring on their own inevitably face some additional safety concerns, but it’s easy to be adventurous without taking undue risks. If you are concerned, consider staying in hostels that offer single rooms that lock from the inside or in places with rooms for women only. Stick to centrally located accommodations and avoid solitary late-night treks or metro rides. Always carry extra money for a phone call, bus, or taxi. Hitchhiking is never safe for lone women, or even for two women traveling together. Look as if you know where you’re going and approach older women or couples for directions if you’re lost or uncomfortable. Wearing a conspicuous wedding band sometimes helps to prevent unwanted overtures.

Your best answer to verbal harassment is no answer at all; feigning deafness, sitting motionless, and staring straight ahead at nothing in particular will do a world of good. The extremely persistent can sometimes be dissuaded by a firm, loud, and very public “Go away!” Don’t hesitate to seek out a police officer or a passerby if you are being harassed. Memorize the emergency numbers in places you visit, and consider carrying a whistle. A self-defense course will both prepare you for a potential attack and raise your level of awareness of your surroundings .

More Travel Concerns in New Zealand

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