If you want to jump into Forza Horizon 6 before your local release time, the New Zealand trick is the easiest way to do it on Xbox. This method has been used by Xbox players for years during major game launches, and it still works for Forza Horizon 6 because the game unlocks based on regional midnight release times.
By changing your Xbox console region to New Zealand, you can access the game as soon as it becomes available there — often 12 to 16 hours earlier than players in North America or Europe.
Here is the complete setup guide, along with the important limits and troubleshooting tips you should know before launch day.
What Is the New Zealand Trick?
The New Zealand trick is a simple Xbox region-switch method. Since New Zealand reaches midnight earlier than most countries, Xbox unlocks the game there first.
When you temporarily switch your console location to New Zealand, Xbox treats your system like it is physically located there. Once the game unlocks in that region, you can launch and play immediately.
The good news is:
- No VPN is required
- No account migration is needed
- Your saves and progress stay intact
- You can switch back to your normal region later
This trick works especially well for racing games like Forza Horizon 6 because Microsoft commonly uses rolling regional launch times on Xbox.
Step-by-Step: How to Do the New Zealand Trick on Xbox
Step 1 — Open Xbox Settings
Turn on your Xbox console and go to the main dashboard.
Press the Xbox button on your controller and open:
- Profile & system
- Settings
You can also access the gear icon directly from the dashboard menu.
Step 2 — Go to System Settings
Inside Settings:
- Scroll down the left menu
- Select System
This section controls your console region and language settings.
Step 3 — Open Language & Location
Now choose:
- Language & location
This is where the regional unlock trick happens.
Step 4 — Change Your Location to New Zealand
Under the Location dropdown menu:
Do not change your account country permanently. Only change the console location setting.
You can keep your normal language setting if you want.
Some players also set the time zone to:
- (UTC +12) Auckland
This is optional but sometimes helps prevent syncing issues.
Step 5 — Restart the Console
After changing the location:
- Press Restart now
Your Xbox must fully reboot before the region change becomes active.
Once the system comes back online, the console will operate under New Zealand regional timing.
Step 6 — Launch Forza Horizon 6
After rebooting:
- Open My Games & Apps
- Start Forza Horizon 6
If the launch window is active in New Zealand, the game should boot normally.
If it still says “You’re too early,” wait a few minutes and try again.
Important Requirements Before It Works
You Need Early Access
The New Zealand trick only works if your account already has access rights to the game.
That means you need one of these:
- Premium Edition
- Premium Add-Ons Bundle
- Premium Upgrade Bundle with Game Pass
If you only own the Standard Edition, the trick will not unlock the game until the global standard launch date.
