Glamping in Taupo

The Telephone Exchange, Tirohanga

The Telephone Exchange is situated on a working dairy farm, just 25 minutes north of Taupo.

Originally a 1950s Telephone Exchange building, the hut was rescued and restored to become a charming off-grid glamping retreat. There is a romantic and spacious bedroom hut and a kitchen and bathroom hut created in the same style. A short distance from the huts you’ll find an outdoor bath hidden among the trees, perfectly elevated to look out over the idyllic views of the valley with a glass of wine in hand.

For those wanting to escape to Taupo for a few days, the Telephone Exchange is the perfect spot to stop and take a breath, enjoy life a little slower and less complicated. The view down the valley and the tranquillity of the pastoral surrounds are beautiful, the sunsets from the porch of your little hut are stunning. Sip your drink, relax and watch the visiting rosella and kingfishers swoop through the trees, while the farm animals lazily graze. Bliss.

Kinloch Glamping, Kinloch

Kinloch Glamping is situated on a family owned and operated working farm. From your spot atop the hillside, you’ll see cows being shifted, motorbikes zipping along and horses out for a ride. Soak it all up from the deck and see if you can spot some of the wild deer roaming the countryside.

This three-room spacious safari tent can accommodate anywhere from two to six people, making it the perfect spot for couples, groups or families. A six-seater dining table in the living room is perfect for evening meals or a family game of cards. For those cooler Taupo nights, there is a high-quality bio-fuel fireplace to keep you warm and toasty.

On the deck an upcycled outdoor kitchen is fully equipped and ready for your culinary delights, perhaps an evening barbeque. For the best views, explore a little further and find the twin outdoor baths, the perfect spot for a candlelit soak.

Perfectly kitted out for mountain bikers, there are hooks for storing your bikes, helmets, and gear, as well as tools for any maintenance required to take on the nearby trails. In the evening, grab a bean bag and a blanket, toast some marshmallows over the outdoor fire, and watch as the stars appear above you.

Te Tuhi Hut and Dome, Kinloch 

Along with a modern kitchen area, Te Tuhi Hut boasts a luxurious bedroom with stunning views, right from the bed. The cottage also has a semi-open-air bathroom, featuring the crowning jewel of this little gem, a gorgeous bath on wheels which can be moved outdoors to enjoy during those starlit nights. 

This cute little hut is perched on a hillside with views to remember across farmland, native bush, and down to beautiful Lake Taupo. It's the perfect tranquil couple’s retreat. 

The property is also home to Te Tuhi Dome, a large geodesic structure containing a gorgeous bedroom and lounge space. Complete with a kitchen building, luxurious outdoor bathroom space, and amazing views down to Lake Taupo which can be enjoyed from every area. Both the hut and the dome are completely private and set on different parts of the property.

At dawn and dusk, the bush here is alive with birdsong. Depending on the season, lambs and calves frolic in the paddocks around the campsite. The cows, sheep and horses grazing, and chickens foraging make for a peaceful country vista to sit back and enjoy. The perfect home away from home.  

Kawakawa Hut, Taupo

Just 30 minutes from town, Taupo's newest glamping spot is an off-the-grid oasis. A small but special place nestled between rolling hills.

Run by locals Chanel & Brent Griffiths, Kawakawa Hut was renovated between 2017-2020. Inside you will find a 'rural-chic' feel - exposed wood, decor of copper and terracotta, and of course perfectly placed windows to view the surrounding farmland. Designed for two (and a child), the hut is perfect for a romantic getaway or simply time away from life stressors. A plush Queen bed, a spacious kitchen and a log burner make this hut a cozy stay.

Outside you will find an open fire pit with wood, perfect for a romantic dinner. Close by lies the vegetable garden, and friendly cows graze just over the fence. Further out over surrounding farmland you will see snow capped mountains in the distance, making for a peaceful vista to sit back and enjoy.

Kawakawa Hutt is off-grid and is built of repurposed materials so that your stay has a low environmental impact. You will find everything you need in one room, with the addition of a small ensuite.

Poronui Safari Camp, Taharua

Poronui is known as one of the world’s finest sporting lodges. The Poronui Safari Camp is as close to roughing it as it gets at this luxury lodge. Escape to your own little slice of outdoor heaven and fall asleep to the sound of the cascading Mohaka River. The Safari Camp provides a unique opportunity to enjoy impressive backcountry isolation whilst not forgoing creature comforts like crisp cotton sheets, hot running water and flushing toilets. With no phone or internet access, this is a true chance to unplug from modern life and appreciate the incredible surrounds.

Spend your days fly fishing, hiking or horse-riding through this incredible wilderness. Explore the extensive trails, taking in nearby waterfalls, manuka covered hillsides and native bush. If you would like to venture further afield, take to the skies for a heli-hike or race down the hills on a mountain biking adventure. In the evenings, enjoy a little more luxury with an exclusive dining experience under the stars created by Poronui’s talented onsite chefs.

MountViews Glamping, Acacia Bay

This whimsical Lotus Belle tent is the perfect place to stay for your romantic Taupo getaway. At MountViews Glamping you can relax and take in the stunning lake views, soaking in the peace and quiet of your surrounds.

With a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and surrounded by beautiful gardens, this peaceful spot is also equipped with full WiFi, so you can stay connected during your stay. Take advantage of the hot tub and outdoor barbeque, nestled in this Acacia Bay paradise.