14 of the best places to go glamping in New Zealand
Glamping in New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the country’s natural beauty.
Not only does it encourage us to enjoy Aotearoa’s stunning landscapes, but glamping spots are fast becoming one of the most charming accommodation options available.
Originating from the term ‘glamorous camping’, glamping allows visitors to feel like they’re returning to nature in the same way camping does – but with the advantage of not having to lug camping equipment around!
Instead, glamping spots will have a beautiful tent set up and ready for your arrival. Or you may find yourself in a tipi, tiny home or wooden cabin.
Whatever you choose, you’ll have all the modern amenities and comforts of home to spoil yourself. Most often, they’re heated with plenty of cosy blankets and quality linens, so you’ll want for nothing during your stay.
Whether you love the outdoors as much as we do or love it only as long as you have your home comforts to hand, this list of the top glamping sites in New Zealand is sure to leave you excited for your next getaway!
From north to south, these are our picks for the best glamping in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Best Glamping Spots in the North Island of New Zealand
1. Magic Cottages at Takou River, Kerikeri
Make your way to the Bay of Islands to experience eco-luxury at the award-winning Magic Cottages.
Beside the banks of Takou River, near Kerikeri, this private luxury campsite was constructed in a secluded corner of an organic farm. It’s perched on the side of a river and nestled into extensive (and stunning) gardens.
The canvas safari tent is erected over a timber floor and filled with quality furniture and gear, including a vintage-style kitchen and bathroom. So there’s no need to leave the comfort of the canvas to have a steaming hot shower – unless you fancy using the lakeside outdoors bath.
Facilities include a king bed and linen, a kitchen (with a solar-powered electric fridge and a hob), and a BBQ on the outdoor deck.
Candles and solar lamps are provided, along with a charging station, although WiFi is not.
Prices start at $300 per night.
660 Takou Bay Road, Kerikeri 0295
2. Glam Camping at Castaways, South Auckland
If you’re after coastal views, you’ll love the Castaways Resort atop the cliffs of Kariotahi Beach.
Conveniently close to Auckland’s CBD, this glam camping spot comes with food and beverage packages, allowing you to really kick your feet up and relax.
It is suitable for couples, wedding parties, group retreats, and even work events.
The couple’s sites are secluded with specially constructed tents. You’ll have solar power for your lighting, a stereo, an espresso machine and a fully-stocked refrigerator (so you can create gourmet meals on the BBQ).
Aside from their glamping accommodation, there are chalets, studios and villas available, all with ocean views from private decks. There is also a restaurant and spa onsite.
Too good!
Prices start at $429 per night (including meals and wine).
685 Karioitahi Road, Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku, Auckland
3. Solscape Raglan
Choose between bell tents, railway cabooses, earth domes or a recycled 17-metre railway carriage (yes, really) for your next quirky eco-friendly getaway.
You’ll have everything you need aboard the Overlander Train – a kitchen, dining area, space heaters, bathroom and queen bedroom, plus an extra daybed.
Alternatively, the earth domes and glamping tents have beds and cosy lounging areas, while the upcycled railway cabooses are perfect for families. These options include communal bathroom and kitchen facilities, a wood fire and spacious grounds.
Price start from just $48 per night.
Wainui Road, Raglan 3225
4. Wild Canvas, Waitomo
The beautiful 360-degree views at Wild Canvas make this another of our favourite glamping spots in New Zealand.
You’ll find more than great views there though… with a pizza oven, fire pits, and two outdoor baths, you’ll be in love with this safari tent as soon as you arrive. They even have a projector for movie nights under the stars before snuggling into your comfy Koala bed.
Choose from a smaller tent (the original one on site) and unplug from the buzz of everyday life.
Or pick the larger tent; it can sleep up to 8 guests and even comes with its own cedar hot tub and electricity inside.
You’ll also have an equipped kitchen including herbs, a s’mores kit, local eggs, milk and bread.
Plus, there’s no need to wander off to the bathroom here, as you’ll have your own ensuite with eco-friendly toiletries.
Prices start at $490 per night.
485 Mangarino Road, Hangatiki 3986, Waitomo
5. Underhill Valley, Waikato
Enjoy rolling valley views from the heart of the Waikato hills. This hobbit-inspired accommodation was hand-crafted right into the hillside. A rustic home-away-from-home, its wide timber doors open up right onto the countryside.
Bring your own food and enjoy a meal on the BBQ with a glass of wine as you look over the beautiful pond and beyond.
This cosy spot has all the rustic ‘fairytale vibes’ you need for a unique stay in New Zealand.
Prices start from $342 per night.
Whatawhata, Waikato – you’ll be given the address when you book.
6. Twisted Twig Glamping Retreat, Rotorua
Located on a working dairy farm, Twisted Twig Glamping Retreat invites guests to stay in safari tents, just moments from Lake Rotorua.
All of your home comforts will be taken care of thanks to solar power, and you can spoil yourself with an outdoor shower and twin outdoor baths.
Facilities also include two separate rooms with queen beds, an indoor fireplace, and cooking basics in the kitchenette.
This is luxe camping at its best.
Prices start at $350 per night, with a 2-night minimum.
Rotorua (directions confirmed upon booking).
7. Thanks Te Awa Glamping, Taumarunui
In a secluded corner of a quaint family farm lies a luxury tent beside the Whanganui River. This is Te Awa Glamping!
Relax in this custom-built (and super spacious) tent, designed to combine comfort with nature. Inside you’ll find all the warm blankets and plush towels you could need to feel rejuvenated. Plus there’s a luxurious outdoor bath.
Spend your days exploring the local trails on foot, bike, or boat. You’ll also be next door to the Forgotten World Railway, impressive mountain biking tracks, Bradley’s Gardens, and lavender fields.
Alongside your king bed, bathroom, and kitchenette, you’ll also find a welcome hamper on arrival, plus breakfast and an outdoor fireplace.
Don’t expect WiFi or cellphone reception, but who needs it when you’re in a spot like this?
Prices start at $460 per night.
1291 State Highway 43, Taumarunui 3991
We also recommend a stay at the Kapiti Coast Purepod, but as most of their cabins are in the South Island, we’ve included details below.
Our Favourite Glamping the South Island
8. PurePods (9 cabins around NZ)
PurePods have nine different cabins scattered across the South Island (with one also in the lower North Island). These all-glass cabins, tucked away in the middle of nowhere, need to be seen to be believed!
These are the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature while treating yourself. Described as ‘minimalist luxury’, we couldn’t agree more.
Facilities include a hot shower, toilet, cooking equipment, tea and coffee facilities, BBQ, games and a telescope. Optional breakfast and dinner hampers are available too.
Though you’ll be on private farmland, well away from prying eyes, you’ll have blinds to pull should you want some privacy. We suggest sleeping with the glass visible, to make the most of the stunning night sky. If staying in the deep south, you might even catch the southern lights!
Find your perfect pod on the Kapiti Coast (near Wellington), Kaikōura, Greta Valley and Waipara (between Christchurch and Kaikōrua), Port Levy (Banks Peninsula, near Akaroa) or Rakiura Stewart Island.
Prices start at $590 per night (retail), but you’ll save 10% on all PurePods accommodation with us!
9. Kissing Gate Glamping, Mapua, near Nelson
Nestled beside a pond, amid a 7-acre farm and organic orchard, is Kissing Gate Glamping in Nelson.
This charming, rustic NZ glamping site consists of a settlers’ cottage, a modern bathroom, a kitchen/lounge area and a pondside bedroom. If you’re camping as a family or group, there’s also a caravan available for extra sleepers.
Described as ‘glamping with a touch of whimsy’, expect to find exciting sculptures and antiques as you explore the property.
Best of all, though, is the outdoor fireplace and a bath for two on the jetty.
Prices start from $295 per night.
197 Seaton Valley Road, Mapua near Nelson
10. Hurunui Jacks, Hokitika
This beautiful glam camping option is situated beside the Kaniere River upon the West Coast Wilderness Trail. You’ll find your Hurunui Jacks glamping tent hidden within 15 acres of native forest land.
Made from luxury canvas, you’ll have a roomy space complete with an outdoor bath and wood-burning stove. After a night under the stars, you’ll wake up to freshly roasted coffee. Then head off on bikes and kayaks if you want to explore.
Prices start at $250 per night.
693 Lake Kaniere Road, Kokatahi 7881, Hokitika
11. The Green Antler Glamping, Banks Peninsula
If you’re looking for glamping sites near Christchurch, this stunning gem is just a 50-minute drive away in Banks Peninsula.
And if you’re taking the whole family glamping in New Zealand, this is a superb option! The safari tents accommodate a group, with a queen bed and a separate bedroom with bunk beds. You’ll also have a lounge area and a fully-equipped dining space with a wood-burning stove.
Outside, the bathroom is a few steps away, as is the wood-fired hot tub! And the kitchen is even closer.
But, best of all are the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and farmland.
Prices start at $340 per night.
Reynolds Valley Road, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury 7591
12. Waitaki Valley Views Glamping, Canterbury
These geodesic domes are perfect if you want amazing views of the night sky and sunrise without leaving your bed.
Each dome has a large window for those stunning valley views you’ve been promised, a king-sized bed (though family tents are also available), and a cosy interior to keep you snug as you enjoy the stunning scenery.
You’ll have access to a shared kitchen for self-catering and a communal bathroom. Plus woollen blankets, seating, lighting and charger, a private balcony and a small log burner in your dome, along with a couple of outdoor baths.
Prices start at $250 per night including breakfast.
161 Domett Road, Otiake 9494, Canterbury, near Oamaru
13. Pods at the Lindis, Canterbury, near Omarama
These indulgent pods remain luxuriously private despite having double-glazed mirrored glass on three sides.
Facilities include a kingsize bed with ensuite, private bathtub and outdoor sitting area, and toiletries.
Your stay will include pre-dinner drinks and canapes, daily multi-course dinners, light or packed lunches, breakfast, and self-guided activities.
The menu is designed with an exceptional stay in mind, focusing on local ingredients where possible.
Between meals, you can choose to hike, ebike, ride by horseback or even take a helicopter flight through the mountain ranges – all arranged directly with The Lindis Group.
Of course, the accommodation is stunning, but the location in the heart of the dramatic Ahuriri Valley is even more memorable – if that’s possible! You’ll revel in sweeping mountain views from every angle, both while taking on activities and relaxing in your pod.
This is the premium glamping experience in New Zealand.
Prices start at $2,230 per night.
1490 Birchwood Road, Ahuriri Valley 9412, near Omarama
14. Mt Gold Glamping, Wānaka
The dome-shaped tents at Mt Gold Glamping have spectacular views beside Lake Wānaka.
You’ll feel entirely secluded despite being just 14km from Wānaka. Choose from two different campsites, each totally isolated from the other.
With a number of fantastic hikes on your doorstep, it’s the perfect stop for outdoor lovers. You’ll enjoy falling asleep watching the stars and waking up to a Lake Wānaka sunrise.
Facilities in and around the geodesic domes include a bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom, outdoor dining space and tea and coffee facilities. You’ll also get access to a charging bank, board games and warm, snuggly blankets.
We also recommend cooking a BBQ for dinner and finishing the day off with a hot shower before relaxing in your comfy bed.
Sound good? Too right!
Prices start at $358 per night. Check availability.
Dublin Bay Rd, 9380 Wānaka
With such a wonderful range of glamping on offer in Aotearoa, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Which will you choose for your next memorable getaway?
