1429 days ago

Is Hokitika the friendliest town in NZ?

Lorna Thornber Reporter from Stuff Travel

Hi everyone,
Hokitika has been named the most welcoming town in NZ in Booking.com's 10th annual Traveller Review Awards.
Would be keen to hear from those who live there or who have visited whether they think the town really is exceptionally friendly. What makes it a welcoming place, or otherwise? Were there any cafes, restaurants, shops or other places you received a particularly warm welcome?
Lake Tekapo and Oamaru came in second and third place respectively, followed by Cambridge, Picton, Invercargill, Martinborough, Kerikeri and Palmerston North. Would also love to hear from you if you have thoughts on these places. Please include 'NFP' (not for publication) in your comment if you don't want it to appear in a travel article.
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts?

More messages from your neighbours
2 hours ago

CAB REOPENS 5 JANY 2026

Jill Smith from Citizens Advice Bureau Far North (CAB)

Happy New Year to all our Far Northerners.

We will reopen on Monday 5 January 2026 Our hours are Monday to Thursday from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. and Fridays from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

No matter what your issue is, please don't hesitate to give us a call on 09 407 9829 or 0800 367 222. Email us farnorth@cab.org.nz or pop in and see us at 6 Cobham Road, Procter Library Building, Kerikeri.

15 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
3 days 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?
  • 10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.5% Complete
  • 19.8% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    19.8% Complete
  • 69.6% Nah - not for me
    69.6% Complete
761 votes