There are a few areas, like K' Road in Auckland, where it is unwise for lone women to walk late at night, and obviously the more isolated a spot the less chance of getting help but as long as you are reasonably careful you should be OK. Although this is by no means a rule, another area of difficulty for lone women involves taking up work in exchange for board and lodging not arranged through recognized organizations like the WWOOFing set-up . Travellers pay good money for a number of different leaflets and booklets listing farms where people need help, not realizing that the only criteria for a listing, in most cases, is handing over cash. This means that single, unscrupulous types get promoted and you could find yourself stuck on a farm in the middle of nowhere resisting the unwanted advances of the randy owner, or being exploited by doing hours of heavy labour for a plate of beans and a shit-hole to sleep in. The point is that in such situations it's your word against theirs and they're the locals so you might not always get a fair deal even if you complain to the authorities. The best way to avoid this, if you want to taste the country life, is to stick with the WWOOFing booklet when organizing your trip and remember that although it's very good, even so it's not a complete guarantee.

The main source of crime in New Zealand is vehicles. Car break-ins are common in cities, or in car parks at the beginning of short or long walks, or even just on the roadside while you go to take a picture of a waterfall. Campervans are particularly vulnerable, since they contain all your possessions and make obvious and easy pickings. When you leave your vehicle, take your valuables with you, and put packs and bags in the boot or out of sight. If you have a particularly vulnerable vehicle, whether because of age or make, invest in a steering lock or in some way of beefing up the boot lock. When setting out on long walks use a secure car park if possible, where your car will be kept safe for a small sum. There is rarely any stealing in hostels apart from the odd case of mistaken identity when it comes to food in the fridge, although it doesn't do any harm to lock away stuff if you can.

Nude and topless sunbathing is not something you will see in New Zealand except at naturist camps and recognized nudist beaches. Assuming someone takes the trouble to complain, naked sun worshippers on a crowded public beach may even be arrested, and topless women may well find themselves being asked to cover up or made to feel uncomfortable. There are, however, hundreds of isolated beaches and beauty spots in New Zealand that are so remote you can pretty much do what you like.