I Found the Top 4 Luxury Glamping Escapes near Rotorua!
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: May 2024 Camping was never really my thing when I was younger. It was more of a horror story than a fun getaway, thanks to mosquitoes and the constant fear of my tent collapsing.
But when glamping became the next big thing, a friend managed to persuade me to give it a try. And you know what? Things just clicked. All of a sudden, I was comfortable being out in the wild (well, as “wild” as a glamping trip can get, anyway)!
So when the team said we needed someone to do a list of the best glamping spots in Rotorua, I was quick to volunteer. It’s been one of my top assignments here, honestly, and I’d love to do it again!
But before that, let’s check out the spots that made my final cut as well as why they’re awesome.
1. Kokako Retreat
Website: Kokako Retreat
Address: 851 Kapukapu Road, Hamurana 3096, New Zealand
Phone: +64275155538
Price: From 380 NZD per night
Just 35 minutes away from Rotorua, Kokako Retreat is glamping at its finest—cute, curved huts connected by wooden walkways, all perched on a hill with epic views of the forest and farmland.
Soak in the outdoor tub under a star-filled sky, listen out for the calls of the rare Kokako bird (the retreat’s namesake!), and unwind completely. I turned into jelly in one of those tubs!
Plus, it’s close enough to Rotorua that you can easily explore the geothermal wonders the city’s famous for, but far enough away to feel like you’ve truly escaped.
Pro Tip: While you’re here, check out the neighbouring DOC reserve waterfalls.
2. Jack’s Hut
Website: Jack’s Hut
Address: 144B Spencer Road, Lake Tarawera, Rotorua 3076, New Zealand
Phone: +64 7 362 8153
Price: From 290 NZD per night
24 minutes away from Rotoru, snuggle up in a cute little shepherd’s hut from the 1930’s with Lake Tarawera just outside your window. Very atmospheric without being overwhelming.
Jack’s Hut has cosy double beds, a private deck, and even an outdoor hot tub! There’s also a separate kitchen hut with everything you need to whip up something delicious.
Pro Tip: Grill up some grub or roast some marshmallows on their outdoor BBQ pit.
3. Pod Paradise
Website: Pod Paradise
Address: Hamurana, Bay Of Plenty, New Zealand
Price: From 139 NZD per 2 nights
Come here and you’ll leave behind tent woes to cuddle up in a cosy pod, complete with a comfy double bed.
At Pod Paradise, you’ve got farm animals to pat, stunning sunrises to watch, and a private wood-fired hot tub to soak your cares away under a sky bursting with stars. What’s not to like?
Plus, you’ll only be 20 minutes away from the city. Super-convenient!
Pro Tip: The gas BBQ can be used for a fee!
4. Oakridge Glamping
Website: Oakridge Glamping
Address: 276 Dansey Road Ngongotaha Rd2, Rotorua, New Zealand
Hours:
- Check In – 2 PM to 6 PM
- Check Out – 9 AM to 10 AM
Price: From 292 NZD per night
At Oakridge Glamping, you’ve got stunning views of the Ngongotaha Valley. There’s no need for sleeping bags here either, as you can choose from either their one-bedroom tent or their tents with two queen-sized beds.
And while the bathrooms and showers are outside, I was surprised to find them so clean and nice! You won’t have to be afraid of any creepy crawlers on your nightly bathroom trip.
Pro Tip: Make use of their sundeck for your early morning coffee or that vacation yoga session.
