Jenna Ortega’s Favorite Places in New Zealand

Why Jenna Ortega Loves New Zealand

Jenna describes New Zealand as “a city in a jungle,” highlighting the mix of landscapes across the country. Black sand beaches, forests, mountains, and geothermal areas sit close together, offering variety in a way few countries can match. For Ortega, New Zealand is more than a place to shoot scenes. It’s somewhere to walk, talk, and simply enjoy the surroundings and their beauty.

Contrasts in the Landscape

She is impressed by the sharp contrasts across the country. One day might involve hiking along coastal cliffs, walking through quiet beaches, or visiting volcanic areas. “You can see so much variety in a single day,” she says, reflecting on the changes in the landscape that make each visit feel distinct.

Filming in Summer

Jenna usually films in New Zealand during the summer months. The long days and open skies turn shoots into chances to explore. Work and travel overlap, giving her a way to experience the country while on set.

Interest in Māori Culture

She is also drawn to New Zealand’s indigenous culture. Ortega has taken the time to see Māori art, music, language, and ceremonies. Being part of these experiences has given her a better understanding of the country’s history and the communities she meets.

Welcoming People and Community

Beyond landscapes and culture, Ortega emphasizes the warmth and generosity of the people she meets there. She describes some as “the sweetest people” and has kept in touch with friends she made while filming. This sense of community makes the country feel welcoming and personal.

Where Jenna Ortega Has Been in New Zealand

Whanganui: Jenna Ortega filmed the horror movie X in and around Whanganui, including Fordell, Bulls, and Ōtaki. The mix of farmland, small towns, and open countryside gave the film its setting and showed her another side of New Zealand life.

Wānaka: While working on Klara and the Sun, Jenna spent time in Wānaka, a town in the South Island known for its lakes and mountains. The area is popular for hiking and skiing, and its quiet pace makes it a striking contrast to big city filming locations.

Auckland: She also filmed parts of Klara and the Sun in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. With its harbours, beaches, and mix of cultures, the city offers a different side of the country from its rural or alpine settings.

Wellington: Wellington, the capital, has long been a centre for film production. Jenna worked there during X, and the city’s creative atmosphere, along with its hills and harbor views, was just as memorable as the filming itself.

Planning Your Own Trip

For anyone interested in exploring New Zealand, FindGuide connects travellers with local guides who can create trips tailored to personal interests. From landscapes to local culture, these experiences show the country beyond typical tourist spots.

Download FindGuide to explore New Zealand in a more personal way!