Glamping in New Zealand: 11 Hidden Gems I’d Actually Recommend

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Glamping comes from glamorous camping. Also known as luxury camping or boutique camping. It’s built around the desire to get off-grid and into nature without having to completely rough it.

It appeals to those travellers who crave the fresh air, the birdsongs and the wide open landscapes, but with a dash (or a bucket load) more “hotel style” comfort. Think hot running water, a proper bed, maybe even a hot tub, all while still being nestled into nature.

If you’re going to try out the glamping lifestyle, New Zealand is THE place to do it. Home to dramatic landscapes in remote locations and a strong road trip culture, getting off the beaten path and into nature is kinda just the done thing when travelling in New Zealand.

There are a ton of different types of glamping stays in New Zealand. Some are simple, more rustic stays with a few extra bells and whistles, and others offer maximum luxury with hot tubs, pizza ovens and more! 

The level of glamorous-ness that you want during your stay in New Zealand completely depends on what you want to get out of your stay and, of course, your budget. Most of the glamping spots are designed for two, so they make for a perfect romantic escape or honeymoon. However, there are a few that can house 4+ people; these are ideal for families or friends.

New Zealand’s landscape is pretty diverse. If you go glamping in the North Island, it’s likely you’ll find yourself nestled into nature, close to a beach or some farmland. Whereas the South Island is home to jagged alpine peaks, so you’ll often find yourself waking up to some pretty majestic views.

In this list, you’ll find a mix of price points and styles. From luxury safari tents to incredible domes, I’ve handpicked the best glamping spots in some of the most beautiful areas in New Zealand. 

Each stay was chosen for its setting, style, comfort, and overall experience – places with real character that are absolutely worth a detour (and honestly, worth building your trip around). Whether you’re looking to go glamping in the North Island or the South, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in.

Dreamscape Glamping Waikanae | Best Overall

• Location: Waikanae (near Wellington)
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples, friends, solo escapes
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Sunset view, woodfire oven, outdoor bath

Dreamscape Glamping in Waikanae is what all my childhood dreams are made of. It reminds me of a massive cosy fort that you could nestle in and stay forever. Located on a hill overlooking Kapiti Island and the sea, you will be blessed every day with a sunset over the horizon. So, grab yourself a local wine and settle in; this will be a moment to remember.

This glamping spot comes with a wood-fire oven!! How cool is that? You can whip up a pizza or a roast and enjoy it on the terrace overlooking the view. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to enjoy outdoor baths, an outdoor fire and your own private bar.

Inside your snuggly tent, you’ll find a luxurious king-sized bed, designer chairs and a kitchenette. If you think the photos of this place look cool, I’d say they don’t even do it justice. Visiting this place HAS to be one of the coolest things to do in New Zealand.

Stylish Glamping Tepee | Best Budget

• Location: Big Omaha/ Matakana
• Price point: $
• Best for: Couples, friends, solo escapes
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Fire-pit, valley views

If you want to plonk yourself in a teepee, travel into the wilderness but still just be 5 minutes from Matakana Village – I’ve found your match! These glamping tepees refer to themselves as stylish, and that is exactly what they are. They have been carefully designed and fitted out with quality beds, linen, shower towels and (my favourite part) fairy lights!

Surrounded by native trees, you can’t help but unwind, relax and reconnect with nature. Each tepee has its own small deck with chairs for you to relax on and soak in the views. There is a shared bathroom and lounge just a short distance away.

The Enchanted Retreat Luxury Glamping | Over-the-Top Luxury

• Location: Havelock North
• Price point: $$$
• Best for: Couples, friends, small families
• Sleeps: 2 (up to 4 on a sofa bed)
• Standout feature: Outdoor bathtub, luxury design, fire-pit, BBQ, large outdoor area

This glamping spot is super modern and oozes with luxury; however, it has disguised itself as a “tent” amongst nature. This counts as camping in New Zealand… right? The views are out-of-this-world amazing, looking over lush green New Zealand bush and hills… and don’t even get me started about the sunset. A glass of wine in hand, watching our big ball of fire fall behind the horizon – pure bliss.

Inside the “tent”, the stylish decor and design are the perfect mix of modernity and comfort. Relax in the outdoor bath, roast some marshmallows around the fire (really get into the glamping spirit) or just chill out on the deck and soak in the view. This spot is easily some of the best glamping in the North Island.

Drift Off Grid Luxury Eco Glamping | Most Romantic

• Location: Tarakohe, Tasman
• Price point: $$$
• Best for: Couples, honeymooners
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Outdoor bathtub, ocean views, buggy provided, BBQ and included breakfast

Drift Off Grid Luxury Glamping in Tarakohe, Tasman is the best of the best when it comes to glamping in New Zealand. Nestled up high, you’ll have a bloody spectacular view across the sea and rolling hills in the distance. But don’t worry, you won’t have to hike your way down to the beach, as you get your own buggy to drive yourself down with.

If you’re wondering just how glamorous this glamping spot is, I’ll just tell you this much… the bathroom has a double shower, floor heating, white fluffy towels and bathrobes. If that doesn’t set the scene, I don’t know what will. This spot takes glamping to the next level.

Whether you want to head out to explore the area or just relax in your own slice of paradise, this place has you covered. With a kitchenette and a Weber BBQ (yep, no average grills around here), you can whip up your own dinner while you soak in the view. The hosts have the fridge stocked for you so that you’re all sorted with a delicious breakfast to start the day too.

The North Island is made for glamping. It is where you’ll find golden beaches, rolling farmland, volcanic landscapes, native forest, and plenty of remote stays that are easy to access from major hubs like Auckland and Wellington. 

Glamping here tends to merge big views with fairly easy access – perfect if you want nature without going completely off‑grid. Below are some of my favourite North Island stays:

The Yurt Wai Rua | Best North Island Yurt

• Location: Whangārei, Northland
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Fresh farm supplies, kitchen, fireplace, woodstove, swimming pool, BBQ

Tucked away in Northland, this Yurt provides the perfect rustic glamping in Whangārei. The yurt is SUPER cosy – with a big double bed, a fireplace and warm fluffy rugs. It’s the extra touches from the hosts that make this glamping spot stand out – they provide flashlights for the night, a woodstove for chilly nights and ample farm-fresh supplies for breakfast. There is a kitchen available to use whenever you need.

Plus, they have an outdoor swimming pool (yep, this is glamping, guys!) and a BBQ area too.

Te Kouma Heights Glamping | Best for Ocean Views

• Location: Manaia, Waikato
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Outdoor bath, ocean views, 4×4 to use during stay.

Travelling off the beaten track and right into rural farmland! This EPIC safari tent provides magical views across the ocean and the Te Kouma Harbour. Powered with solar energy, a LUXURY king-sized bed and a full kitchen – you’ll feel right at home here. You’ll also be blessed with two claw baths to soak in the views, or just jump in the shower and enjoy the equally amazing view from there.

The lovely hosts let you roam around, walk up the hill and enjoy all of the surrounding property. As the tent is on farmland, they provide a 4×4 vehicle for you to drive yourself around (pretty cool!) But if you’re not confident in driving, they can drop you off/ pick you up.

Raglan Rural Retreat | Best Farmstay

• Location: Raglan, Waikato
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples, friends, families, surfers
• Sleeps: 4 (6 on a sofa bed)
• Standout feature: Spa pool, kitchen, fit-pit

If you’re going to get off the beaten track anywhere, Raglan is a pretty sweet place to do it. And this Raglan Rural Retreat is just the place! It provides the classic camping experience: sitting back (glass of wine in hand), toasting marshmallows around the fire pit or relaxing in the spa pool while marvelling at the stars above.

Your luxurious glamping tent comes with two bedrooms (each with a queen-size bed), a chill-out space, a couch and a kitchen. It’s like a little home! Located on a tranquil rural farm, your only neighbours will be the friendly alpacas next door. Although you’ll feel like you’ve been picked up from the busy world and dropped into a secluded paradise… you’re actually less than 10 minutes from Raglan’s town centre.

Oakridge Glamping | Best for Families

• Location: Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples, friends, families
• Sleeps: 4 (6 on a sofa bed)
• Standout feature: Outdoor bath, BBQ and fireplace, epic stargazing & cute doggies!

Although there are so many aspects to Oakridge Glamping that are INCREDIBLE, my favourite part about staying here is the stargazing, it is out-of-this-world (literally). If Rotorua pulls through with a clear night, you’ll be blessed with a shit load of shiny stars that will be etched into your mind long after your trip.

This glamping in Rotorua offers a cosy fireplace, an epic outdoor bathtub overlooking serene views and a bangin’ BBQ set up. Not only that, but your hosts are wonderful. They have horses and two friendly labradors – Baxter and Benson – who add even more sparkle to your stay.

The glamping in the South Island is a whole different ball game. There is a real sense of remoteness that you don’t always find in the busier north. The landscapes are dramatic, and the slower pace is addictive. Below are my favourite spots down south – select for their setting, style, comfort and overall vibe!

Glamping yurt / “hole in the rock” accommodation | Best South Island Yurt

• Location: Cape Foulwind, West Coast
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples, friends, small families
• Sleeps: 2 (4 on sofa bed)
• Standout feature: Close to the beach, sunset views

Amongst some of the best glamping in the South Island is this Yurt near Cape Farewell. From your deck, you will be spoiled with beautiful views across the rocky landscape of the west coast. Mere steps from the beach, you can walk down to Hole in the Rock Beach or walk a few minutes further to join the Cape Foulwind walkway. There are plenty of adventures to be had when staying here.

The yurt itself is an absolute dream; it’s a stylish, round room with a 5m window to capture all of the incredible views. After a day of exploring, you can crash in a queen-sized bed (or if you’re a group of four, you can sleep on the fold-out double sofa bed). Surrounded by lush lawn and cosy bean bags, it’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset.

With your own kitchenette, you can whip up your own meals at your leisure. Or, if you’re up for an outing, you can head to the Star Tavern just two minutes away – a great spot for a feed and a beer. If you’re after a place to stop the charts on your South Island roadie, this is it.

Cross Hill Glamping | Best Air-Conditioned Dome

• Location: Lake Hāwea, Otago
• Price point: $$$
• Best for: Couples
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Breakfast included, air-conditioning, gas fireplace

If you’re on the fence about this whole glamping thing – can it really be that luxurious to go camping? YES, it can. Cross Hill has everything, and I mean everything you could want in a hotel room… except it’s in a dome in the middle of nature.

From the divine super-king bed, soft sheets, heated mattress pad, gas fireplace, quality towels, dressing gowns, lovely toiletries, and so much more. You will be living like a queen in a dome. The vibe is serene and provides the perfect place to unwind.

Breakfast is served daily in a lovely communal area. If you’re up for meeting other guests, this is a great time to mix and mingle with your fellow dome dwellers and others from the campground.

Valley Views Glamping | Best Sunset View

• Location: Kurow, Waitaki Valley
• Price point: $$
• Best for: Couples
• Sleeps: 2
• Standout feature: Free breakfast, epic views and remote location.

Picture a tent filled with fairy lights, soft faux fur rugs and a bed that rivals any luxury hotel. Not only that, but an EPIC view across the valley that will absolutely blow your mind. Relax in a warm outdoor bath under the stars, have a local wine, and watch the sunset from your deck. Hidden down a dirt road and amongst lush, beautiful nature – you’ll feel completely off-grid.

The hosts are super welcoming to all their guests and provide a delicious FREE breakfast every morning. Including fresh eggs laid by their hens, bread, butter, spreads and fresh coffee. A dreamy start to the day.

Even the most luxurious glamping setups still put you right in the elements: open air, changing weather, chilly evenings, and the occasional muddy track. So while you won’t need full camping gear, a few layers and practical extras will make your stay way more comfortable.

Here are a few key items I’d suggest packing:

• Warm layers: NZ weather can change fast, even in summer. Pack a good fleece and a cosy jumper.
• A waterproof jacket: Essential for sudden downpours or misty mornings.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Many glamping spots involve short walks, boardwalks, or farm tracks to get around.
• Reusable water bottle: Handy for off‑grid stays or long outdoor days. Even better if you can get one that filters so you can drink straight from the source!
• Head torch or small lantern: Great for nighttime bathroom trips or stargazing.
• Socks + slippers: Tents and domes can get a little chilly underfoot.
• Swimwear: For outdoor baths, hot tubs, rivers, or beaches.
• Sunscreen + insect repellent: Nature is beautiful… and occasionally quite itchy!
• A good book or journal: Glamping is made for slow mornings and early nights.
• Snacks and drinks: Many spots are remote, so bring your fav snacks.

This list keeps things simple but covers the essentials for staying comfortable, warm, and ready for whatever New Zealand’s outdoors throws at you 🙂

Don’t Forget Your New Zealand Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect them. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to New Zealand.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

As you can see, New Zealand does glamping bloody well. And for good reason. With all that space and scenery, it’s the perfect place to trade the chaos and noise of everyday life for a slice of silence.

The best glamping spot really does depend on the type of trip that you’re after. Do you want something that will have you close to hikes, beaches or stargazing? Do you want to stay somewhere romantic, design-led or maybe just somewhere that’s in budget! 

If you’re still unsure as to the best glamping, I’d recommend locking in Dreamscape Glamping Waikanae. It’s nestled into the hills and provides some outstanding views. 

Wherever you decide, enjoy your time getting off-grid and switching off. Relax, unwind and enjoy!