When travelling around some of the most beautiful sights in the world, you want to make the most of every opportunity to connect with nature. Still, camping isn’t everyone’s idea of relaxation, and many of us miss the creature comforts of luxury resorts. Glamping spots are the perfect in between. Experience the best of both worlds where comfort meets nature. Here are some of the best North Island glamping spots that you have to check out!
1. Manutuke Eco Retreat
The Manutuke Eco Retreat is a luxury glamping North Island experience located on the east coast. Relax in comfort with a queen size bed, bath, shower, toilet, and kitchen spread across multiple tents linked by interconnecting boardwalks that immerse you in the surrounding wetlands. There’s no shortage of things to do here. Soak up a starry night in the outdoor bath or take the two-person kayak out onto the lake. Explore the 10km’s of walking tracks that the property offers or grab the binoculars and bean bags to see how many native species you can spot. This off-grid retreat is the perfect place to escape the grind and reconnect with nature. Manutuke Eco Retreat couldn’t be more perfect for a quick getaway. Gisborne is just 15 minutes away offering an easy reprieve if you fancy a night off from cooking, though the lake and wetland surroundings transport you to a place that feels a million miles away from civilization. This retreat is strictly adults only (no children or pets allowed) making it an ideal romantic escape.
2. Coromandel Luxury Escapes
Tucked away in one of the most scenic parts of New Zealand is Coromandel Luxury Escapes. The idyllic beaches of the Coromandel are moments away, but the setting for this north island glamping spot has a rural feel. The spacious glamping tent is fully equipped with a comfy bed and essentials for cooking like a barbeque. Keep your favourite drinks cold thanks to the power on-site, and stay comfortable year-round with heating and a fan. The large outdoor deck connects the glamping tent with the bathroom facilities, which includes an impressive bath that is all luxury. This is not only an amazing destination to rest and rejuvenate, but it’s also a great base for exploring the Coromandel Peninsula. Coromandel Luxury Escapes is on the edge of Matarangi, just 20-minutes drive from Coromandel Town and Whitianga.
If you’re looking for more Coromandel inspiration, check out the 7 Best Beaches in the Coromandel here!
3. Clifton Glamping
Take the elegance of a five-star resort, combine it with an immersive camping adventure, and you get Clifton Glamping. This accommodation delivers the perfect balance of luxury and experience. Nestled in the surrounding hills of Clifton Station, this remote section expands over 2000 acres to leave you feeling like you’re miles from civilization. The boutique accommodation at Clifton Glamping offers partially outdoor kitchen facilities with a deck that allows you to enjoy panoramic views of your surroundings. Help yourself to several locally sourced breakfast foods, including fresh bread, muesli and fluffy marshmallows. Jump in the fresh river water of the Maraetotara, enjoy a hot outdoor bath underneath the stars, and then return to your tent for a peaceful sleep among premium linens.
4. Te Awa Glamping
Located on the banks of the Whanganui River, Te Awa Glamping offers luxury resorts at the top of the North Island that allow you to enjoy a remote getaway and private beach access. Make your trip memorable from the moment you arrive by taking a jet boat or canoe to this stylish resort. If you like to stay active, grab a bike and cycle the local trails or sail a canoe down to the Lavender Cafe. While you’re I’m the area, don’t miss the unique and award-winning experience of the Forgotten World, where you can drive a rail cart down an abandoned line. Along with a welcome hamper full of goodies and a locally sourced breakfast, you can enjoy an outdoor bath plus a fireplace and grill to make your stay a truly luxurious one.
5. Wild Canvas, Waitomo
Waitomo is a great place to get closer to nature. It’s where the beauty of the environment astounds millions of visitors every year. If you’re looking for accommodation in Waitomo where you can kick back and relax, Wild Canvas Glamping Escapes offers one of the best luxury glamping North Island experiences. Replace digital devices with board games and books; take the time to switch off from it all and bask in your surroundings. Situated on a family farm atop a hill, you’ll have plenty of chances to spot the neighbouring sheep and cows roaming the fields. There are two tents available at Wild Canvas. Choice between the Kōwhai Tent and the Pōhutukawa Tent. Enjoy the luxury of a comfortable bed and ensuite bathroom while reaping the benefits of a camping experience. Lie under the stars at night time, toast marshmallows around the campfire, or enjoy a hot outdoor bath. There’s even an outdoor pizza oven! All you’ll need to bring is food and some walking boots so that you can explore the surrounding farmland at leisure.
6. Birch Hill Canopy Camping
If you’re looking for glamping experiences in the lower North Island, check out Birch Hill in Hawke’s Bay, where two tents can accommodate up to 11 people! Plus, your four-legged friends such as dogs and horses can join in on the adventure. The site includes a large wooden framed tent plus a smaller sleeper tent complete with a kitchen, dining area, and camp lounge that’s ideal for communal gatherings. A line of kānuka and pine trees house several relaxing hammocks where you can relax under the warm sunshine or star-filled night sky. There are plenty of activities on offer at the surrounding resort, including 4WD farm tours, archery, and knife throwing.
Cover image credit: Clifton Glamping
