Whether you’re travelling solo or as a group, experienced RV adventurer Lisa Jansen shares tips for making friends and finding community while exploring the country
Travelling in a motorhome or caravan (or camping) offers an unmatched sense of freedom, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and hidden gems of New Zealand for weeks at a time (and longer).
However, for some, one challenge of this nomadic lifestyle is leaving behind established social circles. With friends and communities left at home, life on the road can feel lonely at times. Fortunately, the RV community in New Zealand is warm and welcoming, with numerous opportunities to meet new people and form lasting friendships. Here are some tips and strategies to help find community and friends while on the road.
Connect with people at campgrounds
Campgrounds are often the social hubs for RV travellers. They provide a relaxed environment where people are generally open to striking up a conversation. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to your neighbours, invite them over for a drink, or ask if you can join an existing gathering. Many nomads enjoy sharing a cup of tea or a glass of wine, making it a perfect opportunity to break the ice.
At New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) parks, it’s common to see groups of members getting together for happy hours in the late afternoon. If you see a group gathered, don’t be shy about joining in. Be mindful, however, that most RVers agree it’s best to approach people when they are outside their rigs rather than knocking on closed doors, as many value their privacy.
Leverage online communities
Social media has changed the way nomads connect. Online platforms such as Facebook host numerous groups where RV travellers can exchange tips, share experiences, and plan meetups. Some popular groups include Motorhome Friends New Zealand, Living On The Road in NZ, and the NZMCA Wings Members-Only Group.
These groups also occasionally organise in-person events, providing an excellent way to transition from online connections to real-life friendships. And if you can’t find any upcoming events in your area, consider organising one yourself. A simple post in an online group can bring together a number of like-minded travellers eager to make new friends.
Attend rallies and events
Events can be a great place to meet people, especially those that offer on-site RV parking. Whether it’s a music festival, a food and wine event, or a local fair, these occasions provide a shared interest that makes starting conversations easier, and being parked near each other offers plenty of opportunities to strike up a conversation. We often feature RV-friendly events in the magazine, so keep an eye out.
Rallies and events organised by the NZMCA are also fantastic opportunities to meet fellow RV enthusiasts. These gatherings are designed to bring the community together, and all members are welcome. Checking the NZMCA website for upcoming rallies in your area can help you find events to attend.
Get a job or volunteer
For those on extended travels, working or volunteering can be an excellent way to meet people and become part of a community. Working in tourist hotspots such as Queenstown or Rotorua often means interacting with international visitors, while jobs in smaller towns offer the chance to connect with locals.
Volunteering is also a rewarding way to meet new people. Opportunities abound in various sectors, from animal care with organisations, such as the SPCA, to environmental conservation and community support roles. Not only is volunteering an excellent way to meet people and make friends, but it also allows you to contribute positively to the communities you visit.
Join group tours
Joining group tours or activities is another effective way to meet people. Whether it’s a tour of a town, white-water rafting, nature tours, or a horse trekking expedition, these activities provide a shared experience that fosters camaraderie. Engaging in activities you enjoy with others not only enhances your travel experience but also helps forge connections that can last long after the tour ends.
Join a national club or organisation
Several organisations, clubs, and communities in New Zealand have branches and members all over the country. Often, local groups will be excited about meeting members from other parts of New Zealand and welcome them with open arms.
Organisations such as Rotary, Lions, the RSA, and MENZSHED have clubs and gatherings nationwide. These groups often organise events and projects, providing numerous opportunities to meet people and get involved in community activities. Churches and religious communities, as well as some sports clubs, also offer avenues to connect with others who share your interests.
If you want to meet more people on your travels, it’s well worth considering joining one of these organisations and reaching out to members in the areas you visit.
Tips for solo travellers
For solo travellers, integrating into the RV community can seem more daunting. The majority travel as couples or families, and it can be hard to overcome that feeling of being the odd one out in groups and during gatherings.
Luckily, there are specific online groups that cater to solo nomads, offering support and opportunities to connect with others in similar situations. Notable Facebook groups are Female Travel Buddies NZ and Motor Home Babes for women, and Solo Kiwi Travellers for everyone. These groups are known for their supportive environments and regularly organise meetups for members.
The key to building friendships and finding community on the road is to be open-minded and proactive. Engage in conversations, participate in activities, and don’t hesitate to reach out to others. By embracing the opportunities to connect, you can make your journey across New Zealand not only a voyage of scenic beauty but also one of human connections. Safe travels, and happy connecting.
