1797 days ago

NZ's friendliest regions and towns

Lorna Thornber Reporter from Stuff Travel

Hi there,
Canterbury has been named the fifth most welcoming region in the world in the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards, while Oamaru, Hokitika and Invercargill have been named the most welcoming towns in NZ. They were followed by Cambridge, Picton, Lake Tekapo, Kerikeri, Palmerston North, Paihia and Twizel.
We'd be really keen to hear your thoughts on this based on your own travels around New Zealand. Do you think Canterbury is NZ's most welcoming region? And are these our most welcoming towns?
Where in NZ have you been made to feel particularly welcome on your travels?
As usual, please put 'NFP' in your comment if you don't want it to be included in an article. Cheers.

More messages from your neighbours
J
6 minutes ago

Garage Sale this Saturday - Tools, Beds, Fridge & more

Jon from Masterton District

Having a big clear out this Saturday to get rid of some things we aren’t using anymore. Everything is priced to sell and I’m open to reasonable offers on the bigger stuff.

When: Saturday, 3rd Jan 2026
Time: Starts at 8am - please no early birds!
Where: Okato Place, Just look for the signs

Appliances: Fridge and a washing machine (both work fine, just don’t need them).

Furniture: A single bed and a double bed. Also have some china cabinets. A big ild school desk and a small one

Tools: A good pile of old tools—lots of stuff for someone who likes to tinker.

Kitchenware: Plenty of plates, cups, and glassware.

Everything is first come, first served. Please bring a truck or a friend to help if you’re interested in the beds or the fridge!

14 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

Image
1 day ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

Image
Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 9.9% Yes! New Year, New Me
    9.9% Complete
  • 20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    20.1% Complete
  • 70.1% Nah - not for me
    70.1% Complete
598 votes