Why is Men in Kilts Season 2 taking us around New Zealand?

Men in Kilts Season 2 won’t take us around Scotland. This time, we’re heading to New Zealand. Why did Sam and Graham pick this country?

The first season of Men in Kilts took us on a journey around Scotland. As much as we would love to see more of the beautiful country, the second season is giving us a look at another part of the world. The duo are taking us to the Southern Hemisphere for this one.

We’re heading to New Zealand over the course of the six episodes. Why would the two take us there and not another part of the world? Why not to the United States, to North Carolina, which is where Outlander moves to from Season 4? There are some major reasons for this decision.

Men in Kilts Season 2 is heading to New Zealand

One of the biggest reasons is likely linked to how personal the country is to one of the duo. While Scotland was home to both Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, McTavish has moved from that beautiful country to another. New Zealand is now his home, which is where he lives with his now-wife and children.

It makes sense to head around a country that McTavish calls home, right? But that’s not the only reason.

There are a lot of Scottish influences around the country, still. In fact, when a lot of people in Britain are looking at emigrating, a fair few will look at New Zealand. There is a lot about the country that feels like home—although there is still somewhat of a culture shock. TV Insider shares that 20% of the population in New Zealand in Scottish, so it makes sense to send our men in kilts there.

We’ll get to see the two explore the influences and significance of New Zealand to the Scots throughout Men in Kilts Season 2. This is one hell of a season.

Men in Kilts Season 2 premieres on Friday, Aug. 11 on STARZ.