Kōwhai Tent
High above the rolling hills of Waitomo, the Kōwhai Tent offers total seclusion and sweeping countryside vistas. It's an ideal glamping retreat for couples seeking a romantic escape, with a spacious living and sleeping area and a beautifully appointed ensuite bathroom.
Experience ultimate relaxation in our two outdoor bathtubs with panoramic 360-degree views of the stunning surroundings. You can also create a culinary masterpiece in the pizza oven, BBQ or gas cooker, gather around the fire pit, or snuggle up for a movie night outdoors or indoors with the projector.
Nestled in the heart of Waitomo, New Zealand, the Kōwhai tent offers an enchanting escape for couples seeking a unique and memorable adventure.
THE TENT
Thoughtfully redesigned in 2025, the Kōwhai Tent captures the essence of slow living. Inside, you’ll find an indoor fireplace, polished floors, and soft layers of natural linen and wool. The design is cosy yet refined, moody hues, tactile materials, and framed hilltop views through glass doors that open to the deck.
Outside, a new native landscape design invites you to unwind, soak in the twin claw foot baths overlooking the valley, share stories by the firepit, or cook under the stars in your outdoor kitchen.
TO NOTE
The Kōwhai Tent is fully off-grid. Water is gas heated, and power packs are supplied for small devices.
The tent sits a short walk uphill from the carpark (approx. 120 m). The track is steep, so pack light. If needed, we’re happy to drive you up via our service entrance.
There’s excellent mobile and 4G coverage.
AT A GLANCE
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Sleeps: 2 adults
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Setting: Completely secluded hilltop with panoramic Waitomo views
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Bathroom: Ensuite with rain shower, indoor toilet and luxury linens
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Outdoor Baths: Twin claw foot tubs overlooking the valley
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Heating: Indoor wood fireplace
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Power: Off-grid — solar lighting, battery packs for devices, 4G coverage
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Kitchen: Outdoor setup with wood-fired pizza oven, Weber BBQ, and gas hob
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Firepit: Perfect for stargazing or toasting marshmallows
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Movie Projector: Watch a film indoors or outdoors under the stars
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Add Ons: Optional in tent massages and locally prepared catering
Book the Kōwhai Tent
FEATURE | KŌWHAI TENT | PŌHUHUKAWA TENT |
|---|---|---|
Capacity | 2 adults (adults-only). Perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. | Up to 8 guests (4 bedrooms, kids welcome—ideal for families & groups) |
Privacy and Location | Completely private, perched on its own hilltop | Entirely private, located on separate hilltop 1km away |
Bathrooms | 1 indoor bathroom | 2.5 indoor bathrooms |
Power | No electricity, gas-heated water, battery powered lanterns, power pack for devices | Full off-grid power system with full indoor electricity |
Kitchen | Outdoor kitchen with gas cooktop, BBQ, wood-fired pizza oven | Full indoor kitchen with oven, electric cooktop, fridge, microwave, plus outdoor BBQ and pizza oven |
Heating | Indoor fireplace, no underfloor heating | Indoor fireplace, underfloor heating |
Outdoor Features | Outdoor baths, BBQ, pizza oven, firepit, movie projector | Outdoor hot tub, BBQ, firepit, pizza oven |
Tent Size | Cozy, perfect for couples | Spacious, designed for families, groups, or couples wanting a luxury escape |
Décor and Interior | Thoughtfully styled, intimate and romantic | High-end designer finishes, luxury fittings and spacious feel |
Arrival | 4WD or AWD required; car available to borrow. Short walk uphill (approx. 120m) from parking to tent | Accessible by most 2WD vehicles (unless very low to the ground). Parking conveniently close to the tent |
Fire Making Equipment | Firewood, fire starters, newspaper, lighters supplied | Firewood, fire starters, newspaper, lighters supplied |
Exclusive Use | Yes – entire tent and surroundings just for you | Yes – entire tent and surroundings just for you |
Add Ons | Optional in tent massages and catering available | Optional in tent massages, catering, and private chef available on request |
TAILORED EXPERIENCES
Make your stay even more memorable with thoughtfully crafted add ons—indulge in a relaxing massage or savour fresh, locally-prepared catering, all designed to complement your peaceful hilltop escape.
In the Tent – What’s Included
Your Kōwhai Tent stay comes thoughtfully stocked with everything you need for a comfortable, relaxing escape and a few special touches to make it feel extra memorable.
A few treats to enjoy during your stay:
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A loaf of freshly baked bread
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Milk, butter, and free-range eggs from our farm
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A s’mores kit (marshmallows and biscuits)
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English Breakfast tea, plunger and instant coffee, hot chocolate
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Cooking essentials including salt, pepper, and olive oil
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Botanical Skincare bath bomb and bubble bath
For your use during your stay:
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Bath towels and bed linen
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Eco-friendly paper products - toilet paper, tissues, paper towels
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Hot water bottles and picnic blankets
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Torch and battery powered lanterns
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Insect repellent and bug spray
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Ashley & Co hand soap, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner
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Firewood and fire starters
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Movie projector & movies
Everything has been chosen with care — locally sourced where possible, sustainably made, and ready for you to unwind and enjoy the moment.
EXPLORE THE AREA
Waitomo is bursting with things to see and do, from the world famous glowworm caves and scenic bush walks to waterfalls, ziplines, and cosy local cafés. If you’re chasing adventure or a slow day of exploring, you’ll find it all nearby.
