Slowing Down in a Quiet Corner of New Zealand
Sometimes, travel isn’t about chasing the next big adventure — it’s about slowing down and breathing in the calm. That’s exactly what I found during my stay in Thames, a small coastal town on New Zealand’s North Island.
I discovered Thames through WorkAway, a platform where travelers exchange their time and skills for accommodation and meals. I wasn’t sure where in New Zealand I wanted to go, but when I saw a listing that simply asked for help walking a dog and gardening, I knew it was the kind of peaceful experience I needed.
Soon after arriving, I settled into the slower rhythm of Thames — a town with an easygoing charm and a community that welcomes you like a local. Here are a few places that made my time there truly memorable.
Thames Society of Arts | Gallery
A small but lovely art gallery filled with beautiful local pieces. I couldn’t resist buying a small ceramic heart as a keepsake. The friendly staff gladly shared stories about the artists and community. Parking takes a bit of care — you’ll need to cross a busy road — and the gallery closes at 4 p.m.
Thames Museum — Te Whare Taonga o Te Kauaeranga
This museum captures the history of Thames, especially its gold-mining roots. Entry costs $5 NZD, and they accept cards. My favorite exhibit explored local Māori heritage, complete with a detailed model of a traditional village. Though compact, the museum offers deep insight into the area’s past. It closes early (12 p.m. on weekdays, 1 p.m. on weekends), so plan your visit accordingly.
Located inside *The Depot*, this distillery was one of my favorite finds. They offer free tastings of five different gins, and the staff couldn’t have been friendlier — even though I arrived just before closing. The relaxed setting and locally inspired flavors make it an easy highlight of any Thames visit.
My unofficial second home in Thames. The food and lattes were consistently excellent, and the atmosphere made it perfect for working or relaxing. I’d often bring my laptop and stay for an hour or two. Before leaving town, I even took a photo with the kind staff who made it feel like home. The café typically closes between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.
A must for sustainable travelers! This zero-waste shop offers everything from natural sunscreen and toothpaste to shampoo bars and locally sourced food. I loved wandering the aisles — it’s a small space but full of smart, eco-friendly essentials. They close at 5 p.m.
This little gem is owned by one of the kindest people I met in New Zealand. Every visit turned into a friendly chat. I even filmed a few clips inside and created a one-minute video for her to use — a simple way to thank her and help my WorkAway host promote her business.
The perfect place to unwind and watch the sea. On cloudy days, I’d park here and let the quiet moments do their magic — just the waves, the breeze, and the stillness of small-town life.
Final Thoughts
My time in Thames gave me exactly what I didn’t know I was craving — rest, reflection, and connection. Travel doesn’t always have to be a checklist of sights and selfies. Sometimes, the best memories come from quiet corners of the world, where you find yourself slowing down and simply living.