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Best New Zealand South Island Glamping Spots

24 May 2023

Queenstown

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better location for glamping than New Zealand. Perhaps you’re a family of outdoor enthusiasts hunting for your next national park adventure. Or you’re looking for a romantic getaway with super comfy beds and beautiful views.

New Zealand’s South Island is a melting pot of rolling landscapes, snow-covered Southern Alps, pristine beaches and picturesque lakes. We’ll dive into just some of the best glamping spots on New Zealand’s South Island.

Camp Kekerengu – Kaikoura

Image credit: @camp_kekerengu

Camp Kekerengu on the South Island sits high above the wild Clarence River. Bring the whole family to enjoy this off-grid glamping accommodation, boasting stunning ocean and mountain views. As night falls, relax in an outdoor bath. Then, cook up a storm with local produce in the farm shed housing the kitchen and living space.

Lake Stella Mountain Huts – Mount Lyford

Image credit: @goingroguenewzealand

Lake Stella Mountain Huts on the South Island offers a spectacular New Zealand glamping experience. Each hut has a wood-fired hot tub, providing access to a full kitchen and toilet facilities. Spend a day at nearby Mt Lyford Adventure Park or go hiking or skiing at the Waiau basin. On a clear night, sit back in one of the outdoor baths and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and Lake Stella.

Glam Camping – Queenstown

Image credit: @glamcampingqueenstown

Glam Camping is located on the beautiful Moke Lake on the South Island. Enjoy a glam camping adventure and a comfortable stay in a solar-powered geodesic dome tent. Choose from activities such as horse trekking, yoga, and wine tasting. Many food options are available, or a private chef can whip you up a delicious meal. While in Queenstown, experience stunning views from the Skyline Gondola and get your adrenaline fix on the Luge before enjoying a world-class meal at Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar.

Woodpecker Hut – West Coast

Image credit: @clovar

Woodpecker Hut sits on a coastal clifftop property on the South Island of New Zealand. The accommodation represents the ultimate synergy of luxury and nature. Unwind in the cedar bathtub, under the covered outdoor living area, or on the comfy lounge before a wood-burning stove.

Rocky Point Hut, Pepin Island – Nelson

Image credit: @dhiraj.pix

Experience Tasman Bay and Cable Bay views at Rocky Point Hut in the north of the South Island of New Zealand. Enjoy a relaxing stay in a private cabin decorated with subtle luxury, nestled amongst native bush. Cooking amenities and a private outdoor shower are available. The outdoor bathtub overlooking the Bay is the perfect place for a spot of stargazing.

Lavericks Bay – Christchurch

Image credit: @canopycampingescapes

Nestled in the coves of the Banks Peninsula, Lavericks Bay Beach Cabins offer guests an amazing glamping experience. Located on a sheep and beef farm, you’ll have plenty of space to go hiking or exploring. Head to your own private beach for a spot of swimming, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Enjoy sea views and the ultimate soaking under the stars experience in the wooden outdoor hot tub.

Ngahere Hou Glamping – Kenepuru Head

Image credit: Ngahere Hou Glamping

Enjoy a luxury glamping experience in a beautiful setting at Ngahere Hou Glamping on the South Island of New Zealand. You can access a private beach and bike or kayak to the Kenepuru Heads estuary. Then, melt into the hot tub before barbequing on the terrace. The 6-metre Yurt features a private outdoor hot shower and composting toilet. In the morning, an organic breakfast awaits!

Valley Views Glamping – Waitaki Valley

Image credit: @valleyviewsglamping

Valley Views Glamping lies deep in the heart of Mackenzie Country, on the South Island of New Zealand. Enjoy spectacular views of the picturesque Waitaki Valley from your solar-powered geodesic dome on the hill. Kurow River is a short drive away, offering activities including watersports, cycling and fishing. A modern off-grid eco-lodge houses the communal bathrooms, a fire pit and a shared kitchen. Outdoor bathtubs hidden in the forest add an air of romance, whimsy, and enchantment.

Shepherd’s Rest – Nelson

Image credit: @canopycampingescapes

Shepherd’s Rest accommodation looks out across the spectacular New Zealand Western Ranges, Mt Arthur and The Twins. Take a day trip to Abel Tasman National Park and explore the area by land, water, or air. At the end of your day, immerse yourself in the double-outdoor bathtub and watch the sunset. Or kick back by the indoor potbelly stove before slipping into your comfy bed.

Remarkables Glamping – Queenstown

Image credit: Remarkables Glamping

A short distance from Queenstown Airport is Remarkables Glamping on the South Island of New Zealand. Wake up to mountain views from your queen-sized bed before tucking into a complimentary breakfast. Enjoy a hot shower in the OutBack trailer, which adjoins the kitchen and outdoor dining area.

Kaniere Tailings – Hokitika

Image credit: Kaniere Tailings

The glamorous camping accommodation at Kaniere Tailings is perfect for a relaxing getaway on the South Island of New Zealand. Set in a private and tranquil location, you’ll stay in a luxury tent overlooking the surrounding wetlands and bushland. Wake to birdsong and incredible views, and explore glow worm caves in the evening.

Mt Michael Woolshed – Canterbury

Image credit: @canopycampingescapes

Nestled at the base of Hunter Hills in New Zealand, the Mt Michael Woolshed is a 110-year-old woolshed turned into a warm and family-friendly escape. The woolshed can accommodate up to seven guests with its two bedrooms, a substantial living space, a fully-equipped kitchen, and an outdoor bath. The peaceful and serene environment, coupled with beautiful views, makes it an ideal getaway location. Additionally, the nearby town of Waimate has several cafes and restaurants to choose from, and the nearest store for supplies is the New World store in Waimate.

Explore More Amazing Things to Do and See with Skyline

We’re sure our list of some of the best glamping experiences on the South Island of New Zealand will provide you with plenty of inspiration for your next holiday. Looking for more great ideas? How about an epic road trip from Cromwell to Queenstown? Or a visit to the top geothermal attractions in Rotorua? Browse for more New Zealand holiday ideas in our Skyline blog.

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