Step-by-Step Setup of the New Zealand Trick in FH6 Xbox

[Syonva]

The New Zealand trick is back again for Xbox players, and yes — it works for Forza Horizon 6. If you want to jump into Japan early instead of waiting for your local launch time, this is the easiest method.

I’ve used this trick for several Xbox launches over the years, including previous Forza games, and FH6 works the same way because Xbox releases the game based on regional midnight time zones. New Zealand hits midnight earlier than almost everywhere else, so changing your Xbox region lets you unlock the game sooner.

The setup only takes a few minutes.

What the New Zealand Trick Actually Does

This method changes your Xbox console location to New Zealand. Since Xbox checks your console region for release timing, the game unlocks once it becomes midnight in New Zealand.

You are not modifying the game files or using exploits. You are simply switching your console region settings.

For FH6, this means:

Premium Edition owners can access early access sooner
Standard Edition players can also use it closer to the global launch
You can start playing hours before your own region unlocks
Requirements Before You Start

Before changing anything, make sure you have everything ready.

You Need One of These
Premium Edition of Forza Horizon 6
Premium Upgrade Bundle with Xbox Game Pass

The early access period starts on May 15, 2026.

If you only own the Standard Edition, you can still use the trick later before the May 19 worldwide release.

Preload the Game First

This is important.

Your full FH6 installation should already be downloaded before changing regions. Trying to install while switching regions can sometimes create licensing or store issues.

Double-check that:

The game is fully installed
All add-ons are downloaded
The Premium content pack is installed if applicable
Step-by-Step Xbox Setup

Here’s the exact setup process.

Step 1: Open Xbox Settings
Press the Xbox button on your controller
Move to the right side menu
Select Profile & system
Open Settings
Step 2: Open Language & Location

Inside Settings:

Select System
Choose Language & location

This is where your Xbox region settings are stored.

Step 3: Change Your Location to New Zealand

Under the Location section:

Open the country drop-down menu
Change your region to New Zealand

Do not change random extra settings unless needed.

Your language can stay the same.

Step 4: Restart the Console

After changing regions:

Select Restart now

The reboot is mandatory. The new region will not apply until the Xbox fully restarts.

Step 5: Launch Forza Horizon 6

Once the console turns back on:

Open your game library
Start Forza Horizon 6

If the timing lines up correctly, the game should launch immediately instead of showing the “too early” message.

What Time Does the Trick Usually Work?

The unlock timing depends on your region.

For many players in North America, the game becomes available during the morning or early afternoon of the previous day.

For example:

New Zealand midnight happens far ahead of U.S. time zones
Many Xbox players gain access roughly 16–20 hours early

The exact unlock varies depending on daylight savings and your local region.