Travelling solo doesn’t mean travelling alone — and nowhere is that more true than on a small group escorted tour through New Zealand.
More Australians over 60 are choosing to travel solo than ever before. Whether it’s following a life change, a partner who can’t travel, or simply the freedom to go where you want when you want — solo travel is having a genuine moment. And New Zealand, with its safe roads, friendly locals, and world-class scenery, is one of the most popular destinations for it.
But there’s a big difference between travelling solo independently and travelling solo on a small group tour. Here’s why so many solo travellers over 60 choose the latter.
You’re Never Actually Alone
The biggest concern most solo travellers have isn’t safety or logistics — it’s the thought of sitting at a dinner table by themselves night after night. On a small group escorted tour, that simply doesn’t happen.
With a maximum of 16 to 24 guests per departure, you’re travelling with a tight-knit group of like-minded people — mostly fellow Australians of a similar age and life stage. Friendships form quickly. By day three, you’ll have people to share meals with, swap photos with, and laugh about the day’s adventures with.
No Planning, No Stress
Solo independent travel means you carry all the mental load. Every hotel, every transfer, every restaurant booking, every activity — it all falls on you. That’s fine when you’re 35 and have limitless energy. At 60-plus, many travellers find the planning itself exhausting before the trip has even started.
On an escorted tour, your accommodation, transport, most meals, and all the key experiences are taken care of. You show up, enjoy the journey, and let someone else worry about the logistics.
The Single Supplement — What You Need to Know
The honest reality of solo travel is that single room supplements can add significant cost. Most hotels charge per room, not per person, so solo travellers often pay 20–40% more than those sharing.
At Tours New Zealand, we offer single room options on all our tours with a clearly stated supplement, so you know exactly what you’re paying upfront with no surprises.
Safety and Confidence
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world, but navigating a new destination alone — especially driving on unfamiliar roads — can be daunting. On a small group tour, you never have to worry about getting lost, missing a connection, or dealing with an unexpected problem by yourself. Your tour director handles everything, and you always have a group around you.
The Social Side
Many solo travellers on our tours tell us the friendships they formed were one of the highlights of the trip. It’s not unusual for people to stay in touch long after they’re home — and some even book future tours together.
New Zealand has a way of bringing people together. The shared experience of watching the sun set over Lake Wakatipu, or standing at the edge of Milford Sound in the mist, creates connections that last.
Ready to Go Solo?
Browse our current small group departure dates at toursnewzealand.com.au or call our friendly team on 1300 583 470 (Monday–Saturday, 9am–5pm AEST). We’re well used to solo travellers and happy to talk through your options.
Tours New Zealand — Small group, fully escorted New Zealand tours for Australian travellers. Australian owned and operated.