16 Best Camping Chairs in NZ for 2025: Prices & Where to Buy

Choosing a camping chair should be simple—but the shelves are packed with look‑alikes that feel great for five minutes and fail by the second trip. Buy too cheap and you risk wobbly legs, saggy seats, or a cup holder that won’t hold a can. Go too fancy and it hogs half the boot, weighs a ton, or sits so low you need a rescue to stand up. The right chair depends on where you’re headed—DOC campgrounds, beach days, bach lawns, sideline sport, 4x4 touring—and on the details that matter: weight rating, seat height, pack size, fabrics, and little comforts like armrests and a stable frame.

This guide rounds up the 16 best camping chairs you can buy in New Zealand for 2025—from ultralight and packable to plush loungers, rockers, loveseats, and wallet‑friendly bargains. For each pick, you’ll see the key features, who it suits, typical NZ pricing, and exactly where to buy locally (online and in store), plus smart alternatives if the main option is out of stock or not quite your style. Ready to sit comfortably all summer without blowing the budget or your back? Let’s get into the chairs.

1. Action Outdoors curated pick: heavy-duty camping quad chair

If you want a chair that’ll take years of Kiwi summer abuse—dusty gravel pads, beach sand, muddy sidelines—and still feel solid on the thousandth sit, this is the style we recommend first in-store. Our team steers customers toward a heavy‑duty quad chair that prioritises a stable steel frame, a supportive seat that doesn’t sag, and practical touches you’ll actually use at camp.

Key features

We focus this curated pick on durability and day‑to‑day comfort rather than gimmicks, so you can throw it in the ute and forget about it until camp is set.

Reinforced steel frame: Cross‑braced for torsional stability on uneven ground.
Tough polyester fabric: Double‑stitched stress points to resist tearing.
High weight rating: Built for bigger bodies and everyday reliability.
Supportive geometry: A taller seat and high back make standing up easy.
Comfort add‑ons: Padded armrests, dual cup holders, and a side stash pocket.
Ground‑friendly feet: Oversized pads help on soft soil and sand.
Carry bag included: With a shoulder strap for quick haul from car to campsite.

Best for

A smart choice for families, bigger campers, and anyone who wants one chair to cover DOC sites, beach missions, festivals, and weekend sport without babying the gear. If you’ve broken a bargain chair before, start here.

Price in NZ

Heavy‑duty camping chairs sit in the mid‑range compared with entry‑level supermarket specials. Pricing varies with frame gauge and fabric spec; check Action Outdoors’ current specials or contact the team for an up‑to‑date deal.

Where to buy in NZ

Shop online with Action Outdoors for fast dispatch, or visit our Auckland retail store for a hands‑on test sit and advice on fit, seat height, and pack size. Our staff can match you to the right chair for your vehicle space and body shape.

Alternatives to consider

If the heavy‑duty quad isn’t quite your style, these locally available options are popular with our customers:

OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: A proven all‑rounder from a brand widely stocked across NZ.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Firmer, more upright seat support for those who dislike “slouch” (tested strongly by independent reviewers).
ARB camping chair: Built for 4x4 touring with robust materials and easy fold‑down.
Bunnings Marquee Adventurer: A sharp‑priced fallback if you only need occasional, light use.

2. Helinox Chair One — best lightweight and packable

If your boot space and pack weight are always at a premium, the Helinox Chair One is the benchmark travel throne. It weighs about as much as a big bottle of water, folds down smaller than a baguette, and still supports a full‑size adult without that wobbly “festival chair” feel. Independent testing highlights its superb packability and tidy balance of comfort and strength for its size.

Key features

Built for carry‑everywhere convenience without giving up proper back support.

Featherweight build: Around 0.91 kg (2 lb) yet impressively sturdy.
Tiny pack size: Folds to roughly 35.6 × 12.7 × 11.4 cm (14" × 5" × 4.5").
Strong for its class: Rated to about 145 kg (320 lb).
Comfortable sit height: Seat height around 35.6 cm (14") suits most campers.
Breathable seat fabric: Mesh panels help on hot beach or bach days.
Durable frame and seat: Anodised aluminium poles with hard‑wearing polyester.

Best for

Ultralight travellers, bikepackers, trampers, and minimalist car campers who want a real chair at the end of the day, not a ground pad. Also ideal as a “keep in the boot” seat for events. Note there are no armrests, and it’s a premium buy compared with basic camping chairs.

Price in NZ

Expect premium pricing versus entry‑level chairs. International list pricing sits around the lightweight‑specialist bracket; local NZ pricing varies by retailer and colourway. Watch for seasonal sales.

Where to buy in NZ

Look for Helinox‑authorised stock at major outdoor retailers and specialist camping stores nationwide, or check reputable NZ e‑commerce sites for current availability. Prefer to compare in person? Visit a store and sit‑test for height and back support. If it’s hard to find, our Action Outdoors team can point you to comparable lightweight options.

Alternatives to consider

Helinox Sunset Chair: Similar build with a higher backrest for extra neck support (heavier, larger pack size).
REI Co‑op Flexlite Camp Dreamer: High‑back, lightweight lounger style; availability in NZ can vary.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Heavier but offers very firm, upright support if you dislike “slouch.”
Cascade Mountain Tech Low Profile: Budget‑friendly and compact, sits much lower to the ground for beach or riverside lounging.

3. Yeti Trailhead camp chair — most luxurious

If you want a camping chair that feels like an upgrade the second you sit down, the Yeti Trailhead is it. Independent testing rates it among the most comfortable and durable options thanks to a sturdy cross‑over frame and Yeti’s breathable FlexGrid seat that conforms to your body. It’s heavy for a single seater, but the stability, finish, and backpack‑style carry bag make it feel purpose‑built for glamping setups, long weekends, and premium camps.

Key features

FlexGrid seat fabric: Supportive, breathable mesh that moulds to your body.
Cross‑over frame: Increases stability and confidence on uneven ground.
High weight rating: About 227 kg (500 lb) capacity.
Supportive sit: Seat height around 42.5 cm (16.75") with a tall back.
Quality throughout: Robust materials and a refined fit and finish.
Carry comfort: Backpack‑style carry bag with heavy‑duty zip.
Specs (tested): Approx. 6.03 kg (13.3 lb); folded about 109 × 22.9 × 30.5 cm; unfolded about 76.2 × 63.5 × 91.4 cm.

Best for

Campers who prioritise comfort and build quality over grams; glamping, 4x4 touring basecamps, and anyone who wants a supportive, upright seat that’s nicer than most household chairs. If you regularly host friends at the bach or spend long evenings by the fire, this is a treat.

Price in NZ

Firmly premium. Expect top‑tier pricing versus standard camping chairs; local numbers vary by retailer and availability. If you’re value‑sensitive, keep an eye out for seasonal sales.

Where to buy in NZ

Check authorised Yeti dealers and premium camping/outdoor retailers nationwide, both online and in store. If stock is scarce, contact a specialist store for ETA and colourways, or ask our team to suggest comparable high‑comfort alternatives.

Alternatives to consider

ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Heavier but superb comfort and durability at a friendlier price.
Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back comfort in a lighter, more packable package.
Best Choice Zero Gravity Canopy Recliner: Reclining comfort if you’re mostly car‑ or camper‑based.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support if you dislike slouchy seats.

4. Kelty Low Loveseat — best for couples

Sharing a chair doubles the fun and halves the gear. The Kelty Low Loveseat is the fan‑favourite “two‑bum” option for campfires, sunset beach sessions, and sideline sport. Independent testers rate it highly for comfort and stability, with a low, relaxed seating position that keeps you grounded and chatting long after the marshmallows are gone.

Key features

This loveseat is built to be thrown in the car every weekend and still feel great after years of use.

Two-person capacity: Rated around 181 kg (400 lb) for real shared seating.
Low, loungey seat: Approx. 17.8 cm (7") seat height for kicked‑back comfort.
Stable and durable: Steel frame and tough fabric that hold shape well.
Easy setup and pack‑down: Unfurls fast; intuitive fold.
Decent pack size (for a double): Folds to roughly 86.4 × 30.5 × 17.8 cm; weighs about 7.03 kg.
Comfort touches: Padded seats and adjustable drink holders that actually work.
Unfolded footprint: Around 61 × 112 × 81.3 cm for roomy two‑up lounging.

Best for

Couples, parents with a little one (or a dog) who like to pile in, and anyone setting a relaxed campfire base. The low seat is bliss for chilling, but it won’t suit campers with knee or mobility issues who prefer a taller perch.

Price in NZ

Expect mid‑to‑premium pricing for a double chair. Actual NZ pricing varies by retailer and stock cycles; keep an eye on seasonal sales for value.

Where to buy in NZ

Look for Kelty at selected outdoor and camping specialists in New Zealand. Availability can be seasonal; if you can’t find the Low Loveseat, ask about the taller variant or lead times. Our team can also suggest comparable in‑stock alternatives locally.

Alternatives to consider

Mountain Summit Gear Loveseat: Similar concept, a touch taller; often sharper value per seat.
Zempire Monsta Chair (single): Extra‑wide single seat if you want space without sharing.
Best Choice Zero Gravity Canopy Recliner: Solo, reclining comfort if lounging matters most.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Firm, upright single seat for better back support.

5. Kijaro Dual Lock folding chair — best seat support

Hate the slouch of most camping chairs? The Kijaro Dual Lock fixes that with a taut, upright seat that locks open for firm support. Independent testing praises its ergonomic feel, easy in/out height, and stability, making it a favourite for long evenings at camp or on the sideline. Do note it’s on the long side when packed and a touch heavier than ultralight options, but the sit quality is superb.

Key features

Dual Lock mechanism: Locks open and closed to keep seat/back fabric tight and the frame stable.
Upright, taller seat: About 38.1 cm (15") seat height for easy stand-ups and better posture.
Built-in carry strap: Hoist it over your shoulder without needing the bag.
Solid capacity: Rated around 136 kg (300 lb); firm, supportive feel.
Useful storage: Two cup holders plus a side pocket for phone/keys.
Specs (tested): ~4.45 kg; folded approx. 114 × 17.8 × 17.8 cm; unfolded ~63.5 × 88.9 × 94 cm.
Trade‑offs: Long packed length; fabric can stain more easily than some rivals.

Best for

Campers who want real back support and dislike hammock‑style sag; taller users; sideline sport, festivals, and general car camping where sit comfort matters more than tiny pack size.

Price in NZ

Typically mid‑range: pricier than supermarket specials, far less than premium luxury chairs. Watch local sales for sharp deals; actual NZ pricing varies by retailer.

Where to buy in NZ

Widely available through mainstream and specialist outdoor retailers nationwide. If stock is limited, ask in store for ETA or let Action Outdoors recommend a comparable firm‑seat alternative you can try in person.

Alternatives to consider

Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back comfort with good support, more packable than most full‑size chairs.
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Extra‑roomy, padded, and very durable if weight isn’t a concern.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker: Adds a smooth rocking motion with supportive geometry.
OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: Excellent all‑rounder feel at an accessible price point.

6. OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair — best all-rounder under $100

After something comfortable, sturdy, and easy to live with that won’t chew through the camping budget? The OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair is the dependable “grab‑and‑go” option many Kiwis start with and keep for years. It balances stability, comfort, and pack size smartly, and OZtrail chairs are widely stocked across New Zealand, so replacements and matching family sets are easy to find.

Key features

Built for everyday camping without the faff, the Deluxe nails the essentials.

Robust frame: Steel construction for a solid, planted feel at camp.
Supportive seat/back: Comfortable, upright geometry that’s easy to get in and out of.
Hard‑wearing fabric: Tough polyester with reinforced stitching at stress points.
Camp‑friendly details: Cup holder and side pocket for phone/keys/sunscreen.
Ground‑friendly feet: Stable on grass, gravel, and firm sand.
Carry bag included: Packs down quickly for the boot or garage shelf.

Best for

Campers who want one chair to do it all: family holidays at DOC sites, beach days, sideline sport, even an extra seat on the deck. If you don’t need ultra‑lightweight or a recliner, this hits the sweet spot for most people.

Price in NZ

Frequently advertised in the value bracket and often under $100 depending on colourways and promos. Pricing varies by retailer and season, so check current deals before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

OZtrail camping chairs are sold through major outdoor and camping retailers nationwide as well as the brand’s NZ storefront. Stock and colour availability can be seasonal; if you’re shopping in person, do a quick sit‑test for height and armrest feel.

Alternatives to consider

Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Upright, firmer seat if you dislike hammock‑style slouch.
OZtrail Big Boy: Same brand familiarity with a heavier‑duty build for larger users.
Bunnings Marquee Adventurer: Ultra‑budget backup for occasional use.
Zempire Monsta Chair: Extra‑wide comfort if you want more elbow room.

7. OZtrail Big Boy camp chair — best for heavy-duty weight rating

When you need a camping chair that feels rock‑solid every time you sit down, the OZtrail Big Boy is the reliable step‑up. It’s built for larger campers and long evenings around the fire, with a burlier frame and roomier proportions than standard chairs. If you’ve bent budget seats in the past, the Big Boy’s heavier‑duty construction brings welcome peace of mind.

Key features

OZtrail’s Big Boy prioritises strength and usable comfort over flash features, making it a dependable daily driver for the campsite.

Reinforced steel frame: Engineered for stability and longevity.
Roomier proportions: Wider seat and supportive geometry to reduce “sag.”
Heavy‑duty build focus: Higher weight rating than typical entry chairs.
Camp‑friendly details: Practical storage (cup holder/side pocket) you’ll actually use.
Hard‑wearing fabrics: Tough polyester with reinforced stitching at stress points.
Carry bag included: Packs away cleanly for the boot or garage shelf.

Best for

Bigger bodies, tall users, and anyone who values a firm, supportive sit over minimal weight. Ideal for DOC sites, beach days, and sideline sport where a reliable, everyday chair matters more than ultralight portability.

Price in NZ

Expect the Big Boy to sit above standard arm‑chair pricing due to its heavier‑duty construction. Actual NZ pricing varies by retailer and season; check current promos for the sharpest deal.

Where to buy in NZ

Available through OZtrail’s New Zealand storefront and major outdoor and camping retailers nationwide (both online and in store). If you want to test seat height and width, visit a store and do a quick sit‑check before you buy.

Alternatives to consider

If the Big Boy is out of stock or you want a different feel, consider:

ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Extra‑roomy, padded comfort with proven durability.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support for better posture.
Zempire Monsta Chair: Extra‑wide single seat from a trusted NZ brand.
ARB camping chair: Tough touring‑style build for 4x4 and long‑stay camps.

8. Zempire Roco Lounger V2 — best recliner-style comfort

When you want that “feet‑up, melt‑into‑camp” feeling, a recliner‑style camping chair is hard to beat. Zempire’s Roco Lounger V2 is built for long, lazy afternoons by the fire or beach, prioritising a relaxed posture you can hold for hours. The trade‑off, as with all loungers, is extra bulk and weight in the car—worth it if comfort is king for your setup.

Key features

This recliner‑style design focuses on easy lounging and supportive posture rather than shaving grams.

Recline‑ready backrest: Multiple lounging positions for reading, stargazing, or napping.
High back with head support: Encourages a neutral neck position when you lean back.
Firm armrests: Make standing up easier and help you fine‑tune your sitting angle.
Stable steel frame: A planted feel on grass, gravel, and hard‑packed sites.
Comfort‑first seat shape: Wider, more supportive geometry than basic camp chairs.
Camp‑use details: Handy pocket/cup storage and a carry bag for transport.

Best for

Car and camper‑based trips, glamping, and multi‑day basecamps where comfort matters more than compact pack size. Great if your back prefers a supported, laid‑back angle over the typical “sling” feel of basic camping chairs.

Price in NZ

Expect mid‑to‑premium pricing versus standard arm‑chairs. Actual NZ pricing varies by retailer, colourway, and seasonal promos—check current listings before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

Zempire products are commonly stocked through specialist camping and outdoor retailers nationwide (online and in store). If you can, sit‑test in person to confirm recline range, seat height, and packed length fit your vehicle and body shape.

Alternatives to consider

Best Choice Zero Gravity Canopy Recliner: Deep reclining comfort with a sunshade; heavy but ultra‑relaxing.
Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back support in a lighter, more packable package.
REI Co‑op Flexlite Camp Dreamer: Lounger‑style comfort with a compact carry.
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Padded, day‑long comfort if you don’t need a recline.
ARB camping chair: Tough, touring‑friendly option for 4x4 basecamps.

9. Zempire Monsta Chair — best extra-wide comfort

If regular camping chairs feel pinchy through the hips or cramped at the elbows, the Zempire Monsta Chair earns its name. It’s the extra‑wide single seat Kiwis grab for all‑day fireside hangs, with a planted steel frame and a shaped seat that keeps you relaxed rather than slouching. Think roomy comfort you can actually move around in—great for layers, blankets, a lap‑dog, and long yarns.

Key features

Built around space and support, the Monsta prioritises a confident sit and everyday durability at camp.

Extra‑wide seat pan: More elbow and hip room for genuinely comfortable lounging.
Supportive frame: Steel construction for a solid, stable feel on mixed ground.
Comfortable seat geometry: Shaped back and seat to reduce pressure points over hours.
Padded touchpoints: Cushioned armrests and soft fabrics where you contact the chair.
Camp‑smart storage: Cup holder and side pocket for phone, sunnies, and snacks.
Carry bag included: Packs down neatly for the boot between trips.

Best for

Bigger bodies, broad shoulders, or anyone who simply prefers personal space without stepping up to a loveseat. Ideal for DOC sites, beach evenings, and backyard BBQs where you’ll be seated for long stretches.

Price in NZ

Expect mid‑range pricing above standard arm‑chairs due to the larger frame and materials. Actual NZ pricing varies by retailer and season; watch for summer promotions to land a sharp deal.

Where to buy in NZ

Zempire is widely carried by specialist camping and outdoor retailers across New Zealand, both online and in store. If you can, do a quick sit‑test to check seat height and width feel right for your body and to confirm the packed size suits your vehicle.

Alternatives to consider

If the Monsta is out of stock or you want a different sit feel, try:

OZtrail Big Boy: Heavier‑duty build for larger users with a familiar arm‑chair profile.
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Extra‑roomy, padded comfort with proven durability.
Macpac Deluxe Moon Chair: Cocoon‑style “moon” comfort for curl‑up lounging.
Kelty Low Loveseat: Two‑up chill time if you’d rather share the space.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support if you dislike sling‑style seats.

10. Kathmandu reclining camp chair — best adjustable comfort

If you like to fine‑tune your seating from upright reading to feet‑up stargazing, a reclining design is worth it—and Kathmandu’s reclining camp chair is a crowd‑pleaser for adjustable comfort with everyday practicality. It’s the type you throw in the car for DOC sites, beach evenings, and long bach weekends, then dial your recline to suit the moment without that floppy “sling” feel many camping chairs have.

Key features

Built for relaxed, customisable posture rather than shaving grams, Kathmandu’s reclining chair typically focuses on supportive ergonomics and easy use.

Multi‑position recline: Shift from upright to lounge at the pull of the arms or a side adjuster.
High back with head support: A taller backrest (often with a pillow) for reading or a cheeky nap.
Firm armrests: Help you change angles smoothly and stand up without a wrestle.
Supportive seat geometry: Less sag, more even pressure for longer sits.
Durable build: Tough polyester fabrics and a sturdy frame designed for frequent use.
Camp‑smart storage: Cup holder and a side pocket for phone/keys/sunscreen.
Carry bag included: Packs away cleanly for the boot between trips.

Best for

Car‑based campers, glampers, and anyone who values adjustable posture over ultralight weight. If your back prefers a supported, laid‑back angle and you spend hours by the fire, this style is the sweet spot.

Price in NZ

Expect mid‑to‑premium pricing versus standard arm‑chairs. Kathmandu frequently runs member promotions and seasonal sales in New Zealand, so check current offers for the sharpest price.

Where to buy in NZ

Available direct from Kathmandu online and through Kathmandu stores nationwide. If you can, visit in person to test recline range, seat height, and armrest feel before you commit.

Alternatives to consider

Zempire Roco Lounger V2: Kiwi‑favourite recliner vibe with a supportive, relaxed posture.
Best Choice Zero Gravity Canopy Recliner: Deep reclining comfort and sunshade for basecamps.
Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back support in a lighter, more packable package.
REI Co‑op Flexlite Camp Dreamer: Lounger‑style comfort with compact carry; NZ availability can vary.

11. Macpac Deluxe Moon Chair — best moon chair

If your perfect camp evening involves curling up with a book, a blanket, and a hot drink, the Macpac Deluxe Moon Chair is the cosy pick. The cocoon‑shaped “moon” seat hugs your back and shoulders better than a flat quad chair, making it a favourite for long fireside yarns at DOC campsites, beach sunsets, and lazy bach mornings. The trade‑off is classic moon‑chair stuff: it’s bulkier and heavier than a standard armchair, but you’ll forget that the moment you sink in.

Key features

Comfort first, with a shaped seat that supports relaxed, cross‑leg or curled‑up sitting.

Cocoon comfort: Bowl‑shaped seat that cradles your back and shoulders for all‑day lounging.
Supportive frame: Sturdy construction for a planted feel on grass, gravel, or deck.
Soft touchpoints: Fabric and edge binding prioritise comfort where you contact the chair.
Relaxed posture: Less “slingy” sag than cheap festival chairs; easy to settle in for hours.
Camp‑practical: Packs down into a carry bag; quick to deploy at camp or on the lawn.

Best for

Campers who value comfort over compactness—think family road trips, glamping setups, backyard BBQs, and winter star‑gazing. It’s also great as an extra indoor/outdoor chair at the bach. If you’re counting grams or boot space, consider a lighter high‑back instead.

Price in NZ

Generally mid‑range to premium versus basic camping chairs. Macpac frequently runs member deals and seasonal promotions in New Zealand, so check current offers for best value.

Where to buy in NZ

Available direct from Macpac online and at Macpac stores nationwide. If you can, sit‑test in store to confirm the seat depth and packed size suit your body and vehicle.

Alternatives to consider

Zempire Monsta Chair: Extra‑wide single seat if you want more elbow room without the cocoon shape.
OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: Cheaper, upright all‑rounder that’s easier to pack.
Kelty Low Loveseat: Double the comfort if you like to share a seat by the fire.
Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back support in a lighter, more packable form if space is tight.

12. ARB camping chair — best for 4x4 touring

When your weekends mean gravel roads, beach launches and long stints off-grid, you want a chair that’s as tough as your rig. ARB’s camping chairs are purpose‑built for touring: sturdy, comfortable, and—crucially—quick to fold and compact to stow so they don’t steal precious cargo space. They’re designed with handy camp features and a robust feel that stands up to salt, dust and repeat use.

Key features

Built with touring in mind, prioritising stability, fast setup and packability over gimmicks.

Tour‑ready construction: Sturdy frames and durable fabrics designed for hard use.
Compact, collapsible fold: Packs down small to save space in the back of the ute or wagon.
Quick deploy/pack: Simple mechanisms so you’re sitting in seconds at roadside stops.
Stable, supportive sit: Confident feel on variable ground for long fireside sessions.
Practical camp touches: Thoughtful storage and carry solutions suited to life on the road.
4x4 friendly: Easy to wipe down and built to survive travel rattles and beach sand.

Best for

4x4 touring, beach missions, fishing weekends and any setup where gear is constantly packed, unpacked and exposed to the elements. Ideal for campers who value durability and a tidy pack‑down over ultralight weight.

Price in NZ

Generally mid‑to‑premium versus entry‑level camping chairs. Final pricing varies by model and retailer; look for bundle deals during touring promo periods.

Where to buy in NZ

Available through ARB 4x4 stores and authorised stockists around New Zealand, plus selected outdoor specialists. Can’t find stock? Ask our team for a comparable touring‑grade chair we can supply locally.

Alternatives to consider

ALPS Mountaineering King Kong: Extra‑roomy, padded durability at a sharp price.
OZtrail Big Boy: Heavier‑duty everyday chair for larger users.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support if you dislike sling‑style seats.
Zempire Roco Lounger V2: Recliner‑style comfort for basecamp days.
Helinox Sunset Chair: High‑back comfort in a lighter, more packable package.

13. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker — best rocking chair

If you fidget in static chairs or love that porch‑swing calm around the fire, the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is the campsite crowd‑pleaser. Independent testing calls it supportive, easy to set up, and reasonably priced, with a smooth, spring‑assisted rocking action that feels stable on mixed ground. It’s heavier and longer when packed than a standard quad chair, but the comfort payoff is immediate.

Key features

Spring‑assisted rocking: Controlled, confidence‑inspiring motion on grass, gravel, or firm sand.
Supportive geometry: Upright posture that’s easy to get in and out of.
Solid capacity: Rated around 136 kg (300 lb) with a planted steel frame.
Comfort height: Seat sits higher than many camp chairs (approx. 48.3 cm/19").
Camp‑ready details: Cup holder plus carry handle for quick moves around camp.
Quick setup: Folds out fast; no fiddly parts to assemble.
Measured weight (tested): About 5.44 kg (12.0 lb).

Best for

Campers who want to relax and rock by the fire, soothe a tired back, or keep little ones calm. Great for DOC sites, beach evenings, and backyard BBQs. Note it’s bulkier to carry and the rocker pivots benefit from occasional maintenance.

Price in NZ

Generally “reasonable” versus premium loungers and high‑end chairs. Actual NZ pricing varies by retailer and season; watch summer promos for sharp buys.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly found through specialist outdoor and camping retailers nationwide (online and in store). If you can’t locate stock, our Action Outdoors team can suggest an in‑stock rocking or high‑back alternative you can try in person.

Alternatives to consider

GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker: Taller back and road‑trip friendly design; needs more storage space.
Nemo Stargaze Reclining: Premium swing‑recliner vibe if you want next‑level lounging.
ENO Lounger DL: Hammock‑like comfort with adjustable leg options for sandy terrain.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Skip the rocking, keep the firm, upright support.

14. Coleman Cooler Quad chair — best built-in cooler

Want a budget camp chair that keeps a couple of cold ones within arm’s reach? The Coleman Cooler Quad is the classic “no‑fuss” option with an integrated soft cooler in the armrest. Independent testing praises its ease of use and low price, while calling out that it’s less durable than premium chairs. If you’re kitting out a family site or need an easy extra seat for summer BBQs, the built‑in cooler is the winning feature here.

Key features

Built‑in cooler: Armrest pouch fits up to four cans for grab‑and‑go chilling.
Simple to use: Unfolds in seconds; intuitive armrest cup holder and side pocket.
Carry bag included: Single‑strap bag for quick shuttles from car to campsite.
Stable feet: Rubberised tips help on grass and firm sand.
Light–moderate weight: Around 3.72 kg (8.2 lb) in independent tests.
Trade‑offs: Less durable overall; fabric/poles can feel rickety and it’s fiddly to repack; cup holder fits cans best.

Best for

Casual campers, festival weekends, and backyard gatherings where convenience and a cold drink matter more than long‑term durability or premium comfort.

Price in NZ

Typically one of the cheapest full‑size camping chairs with a feature set. Expect genuine budget pricing; local numbers vary by retailer and promos. Watch summer sales for multi‑buy value.

Where to buy in NZ

Commonly stocked by mainstream retailers and outdoor stores nationwide, both online and in store. Check local availability and compare colourways, as stock turns quickly in peak season.

Alternatives to consider

Mountain Summit Gear Cooler Chair: Similar concept with an integrated cooler and side table.
Bunnings Marquee Adventurer: Ultra‑cheap chair if you only need occasional use.
Kmart Anko folding camp chair: Under‑$20 fallback for beach days and events.
OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: A sturdier everyday all‑rounder if you can skip the cooler.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Firmer, more supportive seat if comfort tops your list.

15. Bunnings Marquee Adventurer camp chair — best ultra-budget

Need a bunch of cheap camping chairs for the bach, a birthday BBQ or a one‑off festival weekend? Bunnings’ Marquee Adventurer is the go‑to ultra‑budget buy. It’s a simple fold‑out seat that gets the job done for short stints without chewing up the camping fund. If you’re rough on gear or sitting for hours, you’ll want to step up a tier—but as a spare or starter chair, this is hard to beat on price.

Key features

You’re paying for function, not frills. Think quick setup, a serviceable sit, and a tiny dent in the wallet.

Ultra‑low price: Bunnings NZ lists the Adventurer around $12, with the Marquee Basic from about $9 when in stock.
Fast fold‑out: Unfurls in seconds and packs away just as quickly.
Light to carry: Easy to shuttle from car to campsite or the sideline.
Compact bundle: Takes minimal boot space between trips.
No‑nonsense design: Everyday convenience for occasional use.
Reality check: Materials and longevity trail mid‑range chairs—treat it as a spare or light‑duty seat.

Best for

Casual beach days, extra chairs for guests, festivals, and kids’ sport where low cost and convenience matter more than plush comfort or long‑term durability.

Price in NZ

Typically the cheapest full‑size option on the rack: Adventurer about $12, Marquee Basic about $9 at Bunnings New Zealand (pricing varies by store and availability).

Where to buy in NZ

Available at Bunnings Warehouse stores nationwide and via Bunnings’ NZ online listings with delivery or Click & Collect, subject to local stock.

Alternatives to consider

Kmart Anko folding camp chair: Another sub‑$20 special if Bunnings is out of stock.
Coleman Cooler Quad: Still budget‑friendly with a handy built‑in can cooler.
OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: A sturdier all‑rounder under $100 for regular camping.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support if comfort is the priority.

16. Kmart Anko folding camp chair — best under $20

Need a cheap spare seat for the bach, the beach, or kids’ sport? Kmart’s Anko folding camp chair is the classic budget pick: it unfolds in seconds, has a handy cup holder, and comes in a carry bag. It’s not a chair to baby your back on a week‑long roadie, but for casual, short‑stint sitting it does exactly what it says on the tin—without blowing the budget.

Key features

Simple, fast fold: Unfurls in seconds; packs away just as quickly.
Mesh cup holder: Keeps a can or bottle within reach.
Carry bag included: Single‑strap bag for easy shuttles from car to campsite.
Light to carry, compact to store: Easy to stash in the boot or cupboard.
Easy‑clean fabrics: Wipe down after sandy or muddy sessions.
Trade‑offs: Light‑duty build, slimmer seat, and less long‑term durability than mid‑range chairs.

Best for

Beach days, festivals, extra guest seating, and the kids’ sideline when price and convenience matter more than plush comfort or longevity. Less ideal for larger users or long evenings by the fire.

Price in NZ

Commonly priced under $20 at Kmart New Zealand. Exact pricing varies by store, colour, and promotions—check current tags before you buy.

Where to buy in NZ

Available from Kmart New Zealand online and at Kmart stores nationwide. Stock and colours change seasonally; Click & Collect is often available when in stock.

Alternatives to consider

Bunnings Marquee Adventurer/Basic: Similar ultra‑budget options with frequent stock nationwide.
Coleman Cooler Quad: Still inexpensive, adds a built‑in soft cooler in the armrest.
OZtrail Deluxe Arm Chair: A sturdier everyday all‑rounder under $100.
Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Chair: Taut, upright support if comfort is the priority.

Final thoughts

The best camping chair is the one you’ll happily sit in for hours. Start with how you’ll use it—DOC sites, beach days, festivals, 4x4 touring—and match seat height, weight rating, pack size, and fabric durability to your body and boot space. Use our picks as a shortcut: lightweight for carry, loveseats for sharing, recliners for long fireside sessions, and firm‑seat options if you hate slouch.

Still unsure? Sit‑testing wins every time. Drop by our Auckland store for tailored advice and a quick comfort check, or browse a curated range that balances value and longevity. When you’re ready to upgrade your camp comfort, shop with Action Outdoors and get the right chair, first time—delivered fast or picked up in person before your next trip.

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