Why New Zealand is the Best Outdoor Destination for a Working Holiday Visa

If you dream of spending several months in a country with breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand is the place for you! As a Canadian aged 18 to 35, you can legally live and work there for up to 23 months. Just like Australia, New Zealand is a top choice for doing a Working Holiday Visa abroad.

I spent 12 months in New Zealand myself, and here are the top reasons why you should also consider doing a Working Holiday Visa in this dream destination:

It’s an Incredibly Safe Destination

Does the idea of travelling solo or as a woman make you nervous? Rest assured, New Zealand is incredibly safe. You'll find that many Kiwis don't even lock their doors, and I've even seen people leave their keys in their cars. 

As a solo female traveller, I never felt unsafe at any point during my year in New Zealand. On the contrary, you'll definitely feel at ease there.

There Are Plenty of Jobs Available

With its small population, New Zealand needs help in several sectors. Young travellers on a Working Holiday Visa play an essential role in the country, and there are plenty of job opportunities. Whether it's in tourism, hospitality, construction, or on farms, you'll be spoiled for choice. There are especially many jobs in the agricultural sector. 

Plus, with the high cost of living, a Working Holiday Visa is ideal as it allows you to finance your exploration of the country through the income you earn from working. And even if you don’t have much work experience, no worries—you’ll find jobs suited to your situation.

The Land of The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings trilogy has captured the imaginations of travellers worldwide. If you’re a fan of this magical universe, you can visit the Hobbiton set in Matamata. Also, while travelling on the South Island, you’ll recognize landscapes that inspired the iconic Middle Earth.

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New Zealanders Are Very Welcoming

New Zealanders are like the Canadians of the Southern Hemisphere: you'll be welcomed with open arms. You’ll be able to strike up conversations with nearly anyone. If you need help or advice, there will always be someone ready to assist you.

Maori Culture Is Omnipresent

Especially on the North Island, you’ll encounter many Maori people. You may even attend a haka, a traditional dance, and visit marae—meeting and ceremonial spaces—to learn more about this culture and its rich, age-old traditions.

There’s a Well-Organized Hostel Network

Hostels are everywhere in the country, from north to south. You can even volunteer in exchange for accommodation to reduce your travel costs.

Book the first 3 or 4 nights of your Working Holiday Visa trip to New Zealand at a hostel. You’ll find tips on activities and hikes, as well as loads of information on finding a job.

Getting a Working Holiday Visa Is Quick and Easy

You can easily fill out a Working Holiday Visa application online and get your visa very quickly. You'll be surprised at how simple and efficient the process is.

Your visa will be linked to your passport, so all that’s left is to book a flight and travel halfway around the world to New Zealand.

It's Truly an Outdoor Paradise

With the Great Walks, the South Island is indeed a hiker's paradise. Be sure to book in advance if you want to do multi-day hikes. Otherwise, plenty of shorter hikes don’t require reservations and are just as spectacular. On the North Island, near Taupo, volcanic hikes are a must.

Extreme Sports are Abundant

If you're an adrenaline junkie or just curious to step outside your comfort zone, New Zealand is the place to do it. Especially in Queenstown, you can go bungy jumping, skydiving, white-water rafting—the options are endless!

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Experience on the Other Side of the World!

Even if New Zealand is really far away, you'll quickly feel at home! The high cost of living there will be offset by the opportunity you have with the Working Holiday Visa to earn money legally, allowing you to travel and fully enjoy this nature-filled destination.

Before you leave, don't forget that you'll need travel insurance tailored to your Working Holiday Visa. Get a quick quote from soNomad to enjoy the most affordable solution for a Working Holiday Visa!

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