What do you get if you mix a remote camping experience, with luxury that rivals a night in a lodge? Well, the answer is glamping, and with options popping up all over New Zealand we’ve put together a list of our favourites.
One thing New Zealand does better than almost any country in the world, is blend remote landscapes with low-impact retreats such as glamping. So, while luxury is especially important, so is feeling connected to the environment around you. With that in mind let us present our top glamping tips in New Zealand.

Matapouri Glamping - North Island

Located on the remote East coast of Northland is this Safari style glamping. Nestled in 300 acres of lovely secluded native bush and rolling coastal farmland, Matapouri Glamping at Tawapou has remote luxury nailed. It includes a fully equipped kitchen, and outdoor bath to unwind.

“My camping days are over, but I might consider glamping” – Christine Feehan

Underhill Valley — North Island

Underhill Valley is straight from a fairytale, or possibly a well know movie series filmed in New Zealand. Underhill Valley is a perfect, peaceful, retreat for couples. Built into the hillside, this incredible cave-style retreat has been handcrafted with rustic native timbers and ironwork.

You’ll enjoy the soft glow of candlelight with a glass of wine in the outdoor bath, under the stars.

Pure Pods — South Island

Did you say remote? Well PurePods has several options in the South Island, all of them attempting to outdo the last with their location. Each Pod is located around 1km from where you park, making it a truly remote experience. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a completely off-grid luxury Pod where you can relax in an outdoor tub, lie in bed star gazing, all while enjoying a locally sourced dinner & breakfast food package.

You’ll enjoy the soft glow of candlelight with a glass of wine in the outdoor bath, under the stars.

Valley Views Glamping — South Island

Valley Views Glamping has nailed the glamping brief. It’s the perfect mix of relaxing in nature, combined with luxury. Be enchanted by stunning views of the Waitaki Valley, with the mighty Waitaki River rushing below and the mountains in the distance. Sip on locally produced wines as you enjoy a sumptuous home-cooked meal. Each geodesic dome tent has private decks, king beds, and vast Waitaki Valley and mountain views. Two pairs of outdoor bathtubs up the glam factor, each tucked in the forest. 

Woodpecker Hut— South Island

Located on the wild West Coast of the South Island you’ll find Woodpecker Hut. It’s worth staying here for the name alone, but if that hot tub is anything to go on this remote getaway has plenty more to offer. Designed and built by locals, the isolated cabin hides within its natural surrounds. The hut connects luxury with nature perfectly, so you can soak in the Scandinavian style hot tub all while you take in the sunset. Surrounded by bushwalks and beaches you’re only decision will be if you can drag yourself out of the hot tub.

Rocky Point Hut — South Island

You’d be forgiven in thinking that hot tub view is from Santorini. Nestled amongst native kanuka and coastal New Zealand bush, situated on a cliff, is Rocky Point Hut. Located close to Nelson at the top of the South Island it’s a great stop after exploring Abel Tasman National Park. Stay and unwind in the beautiful and private hut with a natural wooden interior. Take in the incredible surrounding coastal scenery from various lookouts, and watch the spectacular sunsets in the evening.

Mueller Hut— South Island

For our last tip we’re going something a little left of field. You’ll have to forget about the luxury part, however the sheer remoteness of Mueller Hut is so breathtaking we’re including it. New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) manage many of these hiking cabins throughout NZ, built to provide hikers a safe and sheltered place to stay. Inside you’ll find basic facilities, bunk beds and you’ll have to carry your own food and drinks for the grueling 4-hour hike. If you still have some energy in the legs after reaching the hut, it’s worth a scramble up to the summit of Mt. Ollivier (1933 meters), notable for being the very first peak summited by climbing royalty Sir Edmund Hilary as a young mountaineer in 1939.

No matter if you’re planning to travel New Zealand in a campervan, or a hire car we highly recommend at least a couple of nights in one of these retreats to unwind, and connect with nature.

Check our any of our New Zealand trips and let us add your favourite to your itinerary:  Here