New Zealand A Philosophy For Travelers

Pick fruit to earn some dough .
Protect endangered kaori forestland .
Herd Kiwi sheep while living on an organic farm .

One of the most rewarding ways to travel in New Zealand is to experience the country from the perspective of a student, worker, or community member. Opportunities to sample the natural flavor of Kiwi living are often overlooked by zealous explorers with grand plans to tackle the wilderness of Down Under, but adventure can be found in any number of academic, professional, or humanitarian pursuits. This guide’s purpose is to help you to reevaluate your perspective on travel and provide you with some ideas for further research.

Let’s Go believes that the connection between travelers and their destinations is an important one. Many travelers care deeply about the communities and environments they explore, but even conscientious tourists can inadvertently damage natural wonders or offend locals. With this Beyond Tourism guide, Let’s Go hopes to promote a better understanding of New Zealand and enhance your experience there.

There are several options for those who seek to participate in Beyond Tourism activities. New Zealand is eager to allow international visitors to share its knowledge and culture, making a concerted effort to promote opportunities online and overseas. Options for volunteerism abound, with both local and international organizations rejuvenating local communities and environments. Studying can be instructive, whether through direct enrollment in a local university or in an independent research project. In marine biology or environmental classes, you can get hands-on experiences unavailable in less exotic environments. Working is a way both to immerse yourself in the local culture and to finance your travels. Many travelers structure their trips around the work that they can do along the way—either odd jobs, or long-term stints. Seasonal work like fruit picking is very popular among backpackers, allowing them to extend their vacations almost indefinitely.

Begin your research with us, but as you find opportunities that interest you, keep exploring to find a perfect match. There’s no use in taking an opportunity to go abroad and spending it on a program with which you are unhappy. Use the tips in this guide to aid you in your research, and you’ll be rewarded with an unbeatable adventure in New Zealand.