BeKiwi

11/07/2023

Would you cut back spending on clothes and food to fund your next travel hit 🌍 ?

According to recent research from Student Beans, a whopping 83% of Gen Z's are willing to make sacrifices on non-essential spending to fulfill their travel dreams. If you're one of them, BeKiwi is here to help💫

✈️ With BeKiwi, you can embark on unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank. We offer a range of budget-friendly experiences across New Zealand, ensuring that your travel aspirations fit comfortably within your budget.

Say goodbye to overspending on clothes and dining out and say hello to wanderlust and lifelong memories.

Book yours here - https://bekiwi.nz/experiences

06/07/2023

📢 Calling all adventure seekers! Get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waitangi Mountain Bike Trails, an internationally renowned destination for mountain biking

During this 3 hour experience our dedicated team will be your guides to ensure you have an unforgettable time. We'll...
🚴‍♂️ recommend a trail that suits your experience level
🚴‍♂️ provide you with the perfect bike and equipment based on your height
🚴‍♂️ walk you through what to expect on the trail
..all you have to do is turn up and enjoy the beautiful kiwi outdoors 🌿

Discover more about this incredible adventure: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/northland/waitangi-mountain-bike-park-shuttle-hire

01/07/2023

🌍 Recent research from StudentUniverse reveals that the wanderlust of 18 to 25-year-olds is shifting towards experiencing new cultures rather than clubbing. If you're one of those seeking meaningful travel experiences that foster a deeper connection with communities and the whenua (land) of New Zealand, look no further than BeKiwi!

🔗 Visit www.bekiwi.nz/experiences to uncover a world of new travel opportunities that go beyond the surface and offer you the chance to truly connect with the spirit of Aotearoa, New Zealand. 🌟

27/06/2023

Get a serious dose of history and nature in the captivating town of Akaroa, just south of Christchurch! Join your knowledgeable local guide from The Seventh Generation as they lead you to some of the most significant sites of European and Māori history in New Zealand:

👉 Explore Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre. Uncover the stories and events that shaped this pivotal moment in history
👉 Visit Onuku Marae, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Feel the weight of this historic agreement as you learn about its impact on New Zealand's culture and identity
👉 Take in the Britomart Monument, the site of the British declaration of sovereignty

Enrich your knowledge and expand your perspective by joining this remarkable tour through some of New Zealand's rich culture and history.

Secure your spot now: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/christchurch/learn-new-zealands-culture-and-history-christchurch

23/06/2023

You've heard of glamping and staycations, but now it's time to get your head around thirst-tripping, flashpacking and micro-gapping.

Get the downlow: https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/news/300879248/thirst-trips-and-mancations-translating-the-latest-travel-buzzwords

18/06/2023

🌿 Are you ready to step back in time 300 years and venture into a 17th century Māori village? Why not immerse yourself in a Māori cultural experience like no other...

👉 Be warmly embraced with a pōwhiri, a traditional welcome, onto the Marae
👉 Discover the rich heritage of the Māori people as you learn about customs and protocols
👉 Indulge in a mouthwatering feast, prepared and cooked in the traditional hangi style
👉 Embark on a guided tour of the village and hear stories of the Māori way of life

If you're feeling adventurous, why not extend your stay overnight? Wake up to breakfast and a poroporaki (traditional farewell) before you bid farewell to the Māori village with unforgettable memories. 🌄

Check out all the details: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/traditional-maori-village

26/05/2023

Does travelling make you happy?

Here's what Dr. Stefan Klein, author of The Science of Happiness had to say "The pleasures of discovery, the joy of meeting people from other backgrounds and finally the thrill of tasting food I would not get at home usually far exceed all strains of travelling.”

When asked where made him the most happy he said, “Wherever I feel connected to the history of humankind or of our planet."

Where in the world is your happy place?

Browse through BeKiwi's cultural and sustainable experiences here:
https://bekiwi.nz/experiences?product_cat=maori-culture-history%2Csustainability&listing_pricerange=&listing_location=&keyword=

Find your next experience with BeKiwi - We've found the best experiences in Auckland, Christchurch & Northland!

23/05/2023

Spending time in a different country and making friends with people from other cultures and backgrounds builds so many valuable life skills. Many employers look for communication, problem-solving, flexibility, resourcefullness, independence, observation, critical-thinking - all of which you get from travelling! Find out how to present your travel experiences in a way that gives you the edge in job interviews.

https://bekiwi.nz/2023/05/23/travel-experiences-give-you-the-edge-in-job-interviews

17/05/2023

In 2019, some of the world’s best street artists transformed some grey central Whangārei city walls into colourful masterpieces as part of the Street Prints Manaia, International Art Festival.

Download a map from our website and take a walk to see the 15 incredible art murals based on the theme “Tuia te muka Tāngata – Weaving the threads of Humanity”. We'd love to know what your favourite street art pieces are in your city, let us know in the comments below. 👇
https://bekiwi.nz/experience/northland/whangarei-street-art-trail

15/05/2023

With the news stations reporting we're likely to see a recession this year, young people are facing some tough decisions. Should they try and find a job, or spend some time travelling first, gaining life experiences that will give their CVs a competitive edge?

Recent research from UCLA suggests that when the economy and salaries are low and unemployment and competition is high, young people should consider delaying looking for their first job.

Find out more: https://bekiwi.nz/2023/05/15/recessions-can-be-the-perfect-time-to-travel

09/05/2023

Winter is well and truly here - we bet you can’t wait to hit the slopes🎿

Whether you’re a regular snowboarder or skier, or if you’re keen to give it a go and learn the basics, a Smylies Tours Snow Fun Tour is our top pick this season! Make some friends and see a new part of our beautiful country. You'll stay in a cosy ski lodge, tuck into some great food, you’ll get a lesson if it’s your first time, and all equipment, clothing and lift passes are included. Too easy!

Find out more: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/christchurch/winter-fun-in-the-snow

25/04/2023

Ever wanted to get stuck into WWOOF'ing?

There are places all over NZ that in exchange for food and accommodation, will give NZ Working Holiday Visa holders hands-on experience with day-to-day practical skills involved in farm life.

If you're looking for an authentic travel experience, this is it. A budget-friendly and enriching way to travel!

Learn more: https://bekiwi.nz/2023/03/02/live-learn-and-work-on-an-organic-farm

14/04/2023

People are the heart of Kiwi culture ❤️

It's so important to get to know locals when you travel, for a more authentic experience. Here are a few ways you can try this while visiting New Zealand:

👉 Join a club or sports team (most clubs encourage short-stay visitors and walk-ins!)
👉 Attend a community event – these are often advertised locally via local newspapers, Facebook groups or at eventfinda.co.nz
👉 Shop at small local businesses and eateries – you’ll rub shoulders with the locals
👉 Volunteer in the community – check out the volunteering opportunities on BeKiwi or Volunteering NZ
👉 Just say hi – Kiwis are a friendly bunch so say hello when you buy a coffee or go for your walk and you might be surprised where the conversation goes!
👉 Call in and say ‘kia ora’ at a local marae

Read more here: https://bekiwi.nz/2023/02/28/connecting-with-others-through-travel

09/04/2023

Explore the outer coast of Pohatu Penguins/plunge Marine Reserve by kayak and marvel at its spectacular towering cliffs, rock stacks, reefs, and deep-sea caves and encounter its unique wildlife.

Penguins, seals, dolphins what's not to love?

Book your experience today:

Explore the outer coast of Pohatu Marine Reserve by kayak and marvel at its spectacular natural features and encounter its unique wildlife.

05/04/2023

Travelling encourages us to become more adventurous, take risks and get out of our comfort zones by experiencing and learning new things.

When we connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds we increase our social, communication and listening skills, broaden our perspectives and become more understanding.

A BeKiwi experience provides travellers with a way to spend time with locals and develop valuable future skills. Explore the site and find your next adventure 🥰

Kiwi experiences for students. From outdoor adventure to sustainability & volunteering, BeKiwi will connect you with NZ’s culture & people, & future skills!

31/03/2023

Dig deep and scale the Auckland Bridge alongside AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and feel like you're on top of the world!! 🌎🫣

You'll come away from this climb feeling enriched with newfound knowledge and achievement for having climbed this landmark.

Book your experience today:

Unlock local secrets and experience a landmark up close. Learn about Auckland, history, culture, Māori legends and so much more.

28/03/2023

Looking for an underwater adventure?

Experience a half-day cruise & snorkel on Yukon’s 16m catamaran exploring the Whangarei Harbour 😍

Learn to snorkel in the clear deep waters allowing you to see schools of fish, kina and maybe even a turtle!

Book your experience today:

Half day cruise & snorkel on Yukon's 16m catamaran departing picturesque Marsden Cove Marina and exploring Whangarei Heads Marine Reserves.

25/03/2023

In a recent survey, half of travellers want to experience a culture shock when they travel - to experience somewhere with a totally different culture and language from their own.

BeKiwi offers authentic Māori cultural experiences, where travellers can learn how to harvest and weave with flax, learn about local Māori legends, hear traditional chants and songs, enjoy a traditional hāngi lunch, or have an unforgettable and enriching cultural experience spending time with Māori hosts.

Read more:

Travellers want to experience a culture shock when they travel; somewhere with a totally different culture and language from their own.

22/03/2023

Harness the power of the wind! Powered by nature, these blokarts are exhilarating and will go as fast as you want to make them go!

Challenge your friends and explore your inner drifter. It's easy to learn and very safe.

Book your experience today:

Blokarts - powered by nature! - Electric Drift Trikes and Human Foosball. Sustainable, accessible fun for everyone in Christchurch.

18/03/2023

In line with the traditional Māori worldview of kaitiakitanga, the concept of destination stewardship is about a balanced and holistic approach to travel that considers and meets the needs of a destination and its communities.

We are shifting towards kinder and smarter tourism that benefits tourists and residents alike by improving quality of life, protecting natural resources, connecting with others, and developing future skills.

BeKiwi helps visitors to New Zealand experience our beautiful country in a sustainable way including opportunities to learn more about the local environment and help conserve it.

Read more here:

Travel represents many things to different people and for Gen Z, travel is the perfect opportunity to broaden their horizons, discover new and exciting experiences and develop their knowledge and skills.

14/03/2023

Food on your mind? Enjoy a range of Chinese food and culture in the heart of Auckland 🥰🤤

Enjoy a tasty and exciting tour that takes you down a vibrant part of Dominion Road tasting and experiencing Chinese food and culture.

With six different restaurants and three different shops to stop at, embrace the taste and learn about the many cuisines of China.

Book your experience today:

This tasty and exciting tour takes you down the vibrant part of Dominion Road. We learn and taste from the many different cuisines of China.

09/03/2023

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a significant impact on our attitudes to travel. We want to make every trip count, and squeeze the most enjoyment out of them as we can!

Travellers are justifying the cost - both financial and environmental - of their long-haul flights by staying away for longer. Back in 2019, the average duration for trips was 9 days, but in 2022 that has increased to 14, as seen by both Trip.com and Contiki.

Where is your next destination? 🤔🤩

BeKiwi helps you better connect with meaningful travel experiences in Aotearoa New Zealand.

04/03/2023

Climb among the treetops at Northland’s world-class experience!

Bring your courage and strength to overcome personal obstacles in an incredibly fun and nurturing way 🥰

Adventure Forest offers a range of tree-climbing circuits, zip lines and canopy walkways suitable for all ages.

Book your experience today:
https://bekiwi.nz/experience/northland/adventure-forest-tree-walk

27/02/2023

A Booking.com survey of global travellers in 2021 found that 83% believe sustainable travel is vital, and a 2022 survey by Tripadvisor found 65% think it is more important now than before COVID-19 🤔

It's clear that tourists are starting to look to the industry to offer them more socially and environmentally conscious experiences and we're here to make finding these experiences much easier!

Read more: https://bekiwi.nz/2023/02/28/a-sustainable-return-to-travel

21/02/2023

Cycle your way through the heart of Christchurch 🚴‍♀️

Take in all the local highlights including heritage sites, cultural icons, hospitality hot spots, parks, gardens and more with our friends at Chill - Explore With Us.

Book your experience today:
https://bekiwi.nz/experience/christchurch/urban-explorer-tour

15/02/2023

Did you know? Young people aged between 18-34 make up 31% of holiday visitors to our beautiful country, and contribute over $2.2bn per year to our economy 🤯

How do we know that? Our friends at BYTA - Backpacker Youth Adventure Tourism Association conduct research across the New Zealand tourism industry to create a strong youth visitor market.

BYATA has over 200 members in New Zealand and we're proud to be one of them!

09/02/2023

Taking a leap of faith is never easy and there will always be times when your emotions are tested.

Sky Jump off the Auckland Sky Tower with the team at AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and prove that you are capable of great things, and great heights!!

Book your experience today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/sky-jump-off-auckland-sky-tower

29/01/2023

What better way to experience the summer than sun, sand & surf! ☀️🏄‍♂️

Learn the basics of surfing quickly and have plenty of fun with Surfcoach - Learn to Surf in Christchurch.

The team prides themselves on their success rate in teaching people to stand on their surfboard in their first lesson, so you're in for a treat!

Book your experience today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/christchurch/learn-to-surf-in-christchurch

20/01/2023

Since Covid-19, people are travelling differently. BeKiwi reflects the change in how - and why - people are travelling our beautiful country.

People are wanting to get out and experience communities and the environment.

BeKiwi represents a collection of unique, engaging and high-quality experiences that allow travellers to connect in a much more meaningful way, whether it’s offsetting air miles, spending time with local people, or doing their bit to help the local environment.

It’s about ‘give and take’ travelling, which encourages more sustainable outcomes for our communities and environment.

Find out more on our website: https://bekiwi.nz/about

11/01/2023

Looking for a quick summer getaway? ☀️🌊

The Sup Bro Paddle Boarding NZ Tutukaka Coast Retreat could be just the ticket!

Arrive in Tutukaka in the evening to your bach style accommodation and enjoy the welcome nibbles and drinks provided. Start day two with a flat-water Standup Paddleboard lesson followed by a leisurely paddle to a lovely beach for lunch. Take a short hike to a great view point and finish your paddle with a ride on some small waves. Your day ends with a delicious dinner at one of our local restaurants.

On day three, choose from a range of local activities including a dive or snorkel trip to the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, a horse trek from Sandy Bay, a SUP Yoga class or a surfing lesson. For a more relaxed day, choose one of many great coastal walk ways or visit romantic Whale Bay for a picnic.

Book your getaway today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/northland/tutukaka-coast-retreat

04/01/2023

2023 travel trends ✈️

A new study has revealed that people want a 'complete culture shock' while travelling in 2023. 58% of travellers want to get 'out of their comfort zone' and nearly half said they wanted a destination that had totally different cultural experiences and languages to their home country.

BeKiwi’s online platform offers a central hub where you can search for a range of quality experiential learning and travel opportunities across New Zealand that are focused on genuine partnerships with the community and environment.

Read more: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/2023-travel-trends-revealed-by-global-study/B2UJWRUTYG6RHTJ2XCSG3LVCMQ/

28/12/2022

Have you left a lighter footprint this year? 👣

It's been one year since the United Nations Climate Conference in Glasgow last November, where hundreds of travel stakeholders, including tourism boards, tour operators and hotels, committed to cutting carbon emissions in half by 2030 and reaching “net zero” by 2050.

Travelling sustainably isn’t just about reducing your carbon footprint though. It’s about doing everything you can to ensure your travels don’t have a negative impact on the environment and local communities and economies.

BeKiwi helps conscientious travellers and businesses to discover more sustainable experiences that give back to the people and the land. including volunteering, travelling sustainably and learning valuable future skills.

Find out more: https://bekiwi.nz/about

18/12/2022

Looking to give back this Christmas season?

Volunteering at Auckland's Kelmarna Gardens is a great way to gain practical experience with organic gardening and farm management, meet new people, and make a positive impact on your community.

They have a number of different volunteering opportunities that you can get involved in.

Let the team know you're keen to help on this page: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/volunteer-with-kelmarna-gardens-in-auckland

13/12/2022

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Why not gift an experience!

Experience New Zealand's highest and longest Ziplines in Christchurch at Christchurch Adventure Park. Not one, but four great zips – all a little bit different.

The full Zipline tour takes 2.5 hours and features all 4 of our ziplines. Experience the adrenaline rush of racing through the forest all while taking in the incredible views around you. How’s that for exciting…

Book your experience today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/christchurch/experience-new-zealands-highest-and-longest-ziplines

09/12/2022

Looking for some fun for the whole family these summer holidays? 🥳

Introducing New Zealand’s very first Monster Scooter Adventure Park – eco-friendly fun in a stunning outdoor environment.

HeadsUp Adventures in Whangārei offers non-motorized, off-road scooters that are easy to ride and fantastic fun for everyone.

After your safety briefing and a quick riding lesson, hop in the shuttle and relax as you head up to the top of the 143 acre property with 360 degree views of both the ocean and forest. This is a great way to improve your balance and bravery, all in the name of downhill fun!

Choose from eight exciting different tracks, from introduction to advanced, including a fabulous jump track.

Book your ride today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/northland/ride-nzs-only-monster-scooters

30/11/2022

Looking for something fun to do for a staff Christmas function this year? 🎅🎄🥂

What Lies Beneath is a fun outdoor game based in Auckland, brought to you by Escapade NZ.

You’ve caught wind of mystery – something hidden deep beneath the city! But what is it? You need to follow the clues, work the angles, and race the clock to uncover the truth!

You and your team will be out enjoying our city’s parks and hunting down alleys looking for the answers – but hurry … if you don’t bust the case wide open now, we might never know what lies beneath!

Book your team in today: https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/what-lies-beneath-outdoor-game

26/11/2022

Lavender & Limoncello, sounds like your perfect summer afternoon? 🍰🧀🍋

The Food Pairing Experience is a great way to spend a relaxing summer afternoon.

Your experience will start with a tour of the property led by the owners of Lavender Hill Farm. You will learn about the different varieties of Lavender on the farm and what they are used for, enjoy a walk in the olive grove, find out how Lavender Hill’s beautiful olive oil is made and how they transform their lemons into limoncello.

You will enjoy a unique food pairing experience, featuring their award winning Gin and Limoncello, along with some other Lavender Hill’s products.

Created and hosted by Claire Guenegan, owner of The Dessert Experience and taste the unique products created for this event. Tickle your taste buds and discover new flavours and aromas.

https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/food-pairing-experience

22/11/2022

Making plans for your summer break? ☀️🚌

Why not take the Whio Tour from Auckland to Wellington and spend 10 days exploring the best of what the North Island has to offer, journey through beaches, cities, volcanic plateaus, lakes and farms!

Travel with Stray Adventure Travel and experience the magic of Aotearoa, while supporting local, making a difference and helping to protect our environment for future generations.

https://bekiwi.nz/experience/auckland/whio-tour

17/11/2022

With New Zealand still buzzing after the amazing result the Black Ferns achieved in the Women's Rugby World Cup last weekend, this is the perfect experience to learn more about the sport - and Kiwi's love of the game! 🏉🏆

From kick-off to the final whistle, you will be entertained, enthralled and educated with the story of New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport. Be part of the team and feel what it is like to represent your country, wear the black jersey and participate in our national game.

Feel the pride, feel the fear, feel the anticipation.

The All Blacks Experience is a fully guided, state-of-the-art, interactive showcase of the All Blacks and all our national teams in black.

29/10/2022

Are you seeking a genuine cultural connection?

Haka Educational Tours provide an incredible Māori Legends Overnight Experience in the Hokianga.

It's an introduction to the Pre-European Māori lifestyle, including inspiring kōrero. Learn how to harvest harekeke and weave a kai kono within a traditional wharenui and enjoy a hāngi lunch. Spend an evening visiting the Waipoua Forest for a twilight tour where your guide will share local legends before respectfully greeting the oldest known kauri tree in the world with spine-tingling chants and songs.

The next day includes a unique sand-boarding experience, trails and swimming holes and a visit to Ngawha Springs Hot Pools for a relaxing soak to end this truly memorable & unique experience.

Book this experience now:

Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s unique Māori culture on this overnight experience that truly gets you off the tourist trail.