About Us
At Wild Canvas, we’ve created something truly special: two luxury lodge style glamping tents perched on their own private hilltops, completely secluded with no one else in sight.
Our goal has always been to offer a glamping experience that combines the best parts of camping, such as starry nights, crackling fires, and the joy of simplicity, with thoughtful, high end comforts.
Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a family getaway, or an adventure with friends, our tents provide an exclusive retreat where you can truly disconnect and unwind.
GLAMPING
We believe there’s something special about sleeping under canvas. A feeling that connects you to the land in a way no building can. From inside your tent, you can hear the soft rustle of wind in the canvas, the distant call of birds at dawn, and the gentle hum of farm life below. It’s a nostalgic kind of comfort, one that reminds you of simpler times, yet surrounds you with the luxury and warmth of a boutique lodge.
Our tents sit high on the farm’s most spectacular ridgelines, completely private and surrounded by sweeping views. Here, nature takes centre stage: watch the sun dip behind the hills, the stars appear one by one, and the early morning mist roll through the valleys.
Glamping, for us, is about reconnecting to nature, to each other, and to yourself, while still enjoying all the thoughtful comforts that make a stay truly restorative.
WE'RE A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
We are Emily and Benjamin, proud hosts of Wild Canvas, a family owned luxury glamping lodge located in the heart of Waitomo, New Zealand.
Nestled on a 700 hectare, third generation family farm, our sites offer an unforgettable guest experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Ben grew up on the farm and returned in 2016 to take farming on full time after a career in civil engineering. He completed his MBA in 2022, where he explored regenerative farming and sustainable business practices, ideas that continue to shape Wild Canvas’s approach, from energy efficient design to careful native planting around the farm.
Emily grew up in Auckland and, after visiting the farm and seeing its beauty, dreamed of sharing it with others when we made the move. Originally born in South Africa, it felt fitting that our first build was a safari tent, a nod to her birthplace and love of design.
In 2017, we built our first luxury tent, and in 2023 completed our second site. Our goal has always been to exceed expectations in glamping design and to offer a truly luxurious, one of a kind lodge experience where guests can slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of Waitomo.
THE FARM
Set on a working farm, the land is home to both beef and dairy herds, with a few sheep grazing the paddocks surrounding the Pōhutukawa Tent.
Mornings here begin with the sound birdsong echoing through the valleys. Native tūī, kererū, and kingfisher swoop between the trees, while fantails flit playfully along the pathways.
Guests can witness real farm life while still enjoying complete privacy and comfort. From your hillside lodge, take in sweeping views of the farmland, breathe the fresh country air, and feel fully immersed in nature, with every luxury just a few steps away.
LATEST NEWS
Did you see our feature in Life & Leisure Magazine?
Our journey from conception to canvas has been beautifully captured in Life & Leisure Magazine!
In it we talk about the challenges and victories we’ve encountered, giving you an inside look behind the scenes. Plus, we’ve got a few tips for anyone looking to start a glamping business.
