8 Best Camping Shops in New Zealand for Tents, Gear & Prices
Planning a camp in Aotearoa can feel harder than pitching a tent in a nor’wester. There are heaps of shops, prices jump about, stock can be hit-and-miss, and not every retailer understands the difference between a family holiday at Waipu Cove and a shoulder‑season tramp on the Kepler. You want reliable tents, sleeping gear that won’t leave you shivering, cook systems that actually simmer, and backup if something snaps — without overpaying or waiting weeks for delivery.
This guide rounds up the eight best camping shops in New Zealand for tents, gear and prices — from nationwide chains to specialist independents you can trust. We’ve compared range (from ultralight to family-sized), build quality and warranties, real-world advice, spares and repairs, pricing and deals, loyalty perks, click & collect, shipping times, and returns. You’ll get a quick take on who they suit, standout brands and bits of kit worth a look, and where to shop online or in store. Whether you’re kitting out your first setup or upgrading for the next mission, this list keeps it simple so you can choose fast and get out there. First up: Action Outdoors.
1. Action Outdoors
If you like your camping gear to pull double duty for boating, towing or motorhome life, Action Outdoors is a smart pick among NZ camping shops. It’s an Auckland-based independent with a deep catalogue that spans outdoor, marine and industrial kit — ideal for building a reliable, modular setup.
Why it’s a top pick
You get specialist advice from a local retailer plus the convenience of a full online store. Their range covers the practical stuff many campers actually need — from ropes and hardware to knives and RV parts — and their product videos make it easier to choose with confidence.
Standout gear and brands
Expect a functional, hard-wearing focus rather than fashion. The sweet spot is gear that solves real campsite problems and integrates with trailers and campers.
- Victory Knives (NZ made): Durable camp and filleting blades for prep and fish missions.
- Trojan trailer products: Handy for cargo, boat or camper trailers.
- Ropes & cordage: Lines, tie-downs and hardware for secure, tidy camps.
- RV/motorhome parts: Electrical, plumbing and heating components to keep rigs running.
Pricing and deals
Action Outdoors covers multiple price points, helped by diverse sourcing and a “Specials” section for discounts. There’s also a dropshipping-from-China range that can sharpen prices on certain items if you’re balancing budget and function.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Browse and buy via their online store or head to the Auckland retail location for hands-on advice and stock checks. Store hours and a map are available on their site, making it easy to plan a pickup or quick gear top-up.
2. Torpedo7
Why it’s a top pick
When you’re short on time and want reliable options in one place, Torpedo7 is one of the handiest camping shops to check first. Their camping store offers a broad selection — think tents, sleeping bags, stretchers and more — with the bonus of shopping online or in store. The clincher for last‑minute trips is overnight shipping in NZ, so you can lock in the essentials and still make Friday’s departure.
Standout gear and brands
Torpedo7’s strength is an easy, end‑to‑end camp setup built from proven categories. It’s a straightforward way to sort the big items and plug any gaps before you roll out.
- Tents: From quick‑pitch weekenders to roomier family options.
- Sleeping bags: Seasonal choices to match temperature and trip style.
- Stretchers and sleeping solutions: Extra comfort without overhauling your whole kit.
- Camp essentials: Add‑ons and accessories to round out your base camp.
Pricing and deals
The store promotes great prices and makes it simple to compare tiers so you can match durability and comfort to budget. If timing matters more than tinkering, the ability to order today with overnight shipping in NZ is a genuine advantage for spontaneous missions.
Where to shop (online and stores)
You can browse and buy via the online camping store or visit a physical shop to size up gear in person. If you’re racing the clock, order online for overnight delivery; if you prefer to test fit and feel, drop into a Torpedo7 camping shop before the weekend.
3. Macpac
When you want dependable kit from a trusted name, Macpac is a go‑to among New Zealand camping shops. It focuses on premium outdoor clothing, equipment and footwear that hold up when the weather turns, keeping your camp warm, dry and simple to manage without overpacking.
Why it’s a top pick
Macpac makes it easy to build a reliable system from head‑to‑toe layers through to practical camp equipment. If you value fit, finish and weather protection over gimmicks, this camping store is a safe bet for gear that works hard trip after trip.
Standout gear and brands
Macpac’s strength is premium, purpose‑built categories that anchor a comfortable campsite and the walk in and out.
- Technical rainwear: Waterproof shells designed to keep you moving when the forecast sours.
- Insulation and base layers: Warmth that packs small and manages moisture well around camp.
- Footwear for the track and camp: Supportive options for approaches, errands and everyday use.
- Camping equipment: Practical accessories to streamline setup and daily camp chores.
Pricing and deals
Expect pricing that reflects a premium, quality‑first approach. The upside is long‑term value: you’re paying for durability and performance. Compare category tiers to match your budget and trip style rather than over‑spec’ing for occasional use.
Where to shop (online and stores)
You can shop Macpac online for the full spread of premium outdoor clothing, equipment and footwear. If you prefer to buy in person or check sizing, refer to the website for current shopping options and availability before you head out.
4. Bivouac Outdoor
If your trips blend tramping, climbing and campsite comfort, Bivouac Outdoor is a technical, quality‑first choice among NZ camping shops. They stock quality outdoor clothing, camping equipment, climbing gear and footwear from leading brands across New Zealand and the globe, letting you build a dependable setup without guesswork — online or in store.
Why it’s a top pick
Bivouac Outdoor suits campers who want performance gear that pulls its weight on the track and around camp. The range is curated for durability, weather protection and packability, so you can streamline layers, shelter and sleep systems instead of hauling “just in case” extras.
Standout gear and brands
You’ll find category depth where it counts — the pieces that keep you warm, dry and organised when the forecast shifts or the terrain bites.
- Technical clothing: Weatherproof shells, insulation and layers that manage moisture.
- Footwear: Supportive options for approaches, side missions and camp chores.
- Camping equipment: Practical tents, sleep systems and camp accessories.
- Climbing gear: Hardware and accessories if your camp includes crag days.
- Travel and carry: Packs and storage to keep camp tidy and mobile.
Pricing and deals
Expect pricing that mirrors performance tiers: pay a bit more for longevity and function, or choose simpler options for occasional camping. Use the online filters to compare features and weight versus cost so you only buy what your trips actually demand.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Shop Bivouac Outdoor online for the full spread, or visit in store to check sizing and fit. Stock moves with the seasons, so confirm availability online before heading to your local camping shop.
5. Hunting & Fishing New Zealand
If your camp seasons swing from family holidays to more rugged trips, Hunting & Fishing New Zealand is a reliable name to have on your shortlist of camping shops. Their camping range highlights family tents with air‑frame technology, exclusive pieces of camp furniture and cooking gear, plus state‑of‑the‑art equipment you can buy online in NZ.
Why it’s a top pick
This camping store makes it easy to build a complete setup without hunting across multiple tabs. The drawcard is breadth with purpose: quick‑pitch family shelters, harder‑wearing furniture, and cooking solutions that feel like home, backed by a site designed to help you choose and order fast.
Standout gear and brands
You’ll find practical categories that cover the big campsite decisions and the daily comforts that keep everyone happy.
- Air‑frame family tents: Faster pitch times and solid stability for long weekends.
- Exclusive camp furniture: Chairs, tables and storage designed for repeated use.
- Cooking gear: Stoves and cookware that simplify breakfast-to-dinner routines.
- State‑of‑the‑art equipment: Higher‑spec options when your trips demand more.
Pricing and deals
Expect a range of price points that scale with materials and features. Use the online filters to compare capacity, weight and durability so you’re paying for what you’ll actually use, whether that’s a value-first family bundle or a more premium upgrade.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Shop via their NZ website for current camping equipment and delivery options. If you prefer to see gear in person or confirm sizing, check the site for the latest shopping choices and availability in your area before you head out.
6. Dwights Outdoors
Family owned and operated since 1979, Dwights Outdoors sits comfortably on any shortlist of NZ camping shops when you want proven advice and kit that lasts. Their focus on outdoor clothing, hiking gear and family tents makes them a practical choice for holiday parks and long‑weekend bases.
Why it’s a top pick
Heritage counts when you’re buying gear you’ll use for years. Dwights pairs decades of know‑how with a range built around real trips — from simple family setups to more walking‑heavy weekends — so you can prioritise comfort, weather protection and ease of use without overcomplicating your loadout.
Standout gear and brands
Expect a balanced mix across campsite comfort and on‑track essentials, with family tents and clothing front and centre so you can build a cohesive, reliable system.
- Family tents: Spacious options designed for repeat park‑and‑pitch camping.
- Outdoor clothing: Layers that keep you warm, dry and comfortable around camp.
- Hiking gear: The nuts and bolts for day walks and easy overnighters.
- Camp accessories: Sensible add‑ons to tidy, store and streamline your base.
Pricing and deals
Dwights typically covers multiple tiers so you can match features to budget — paying for durability where it matters (shelter, weatherproof layers) and saving on nice‑to‑haves. Use product comparisons to weigh size, materials and packability against price before you commit.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Browse and buy via the Dwights online store for the full selection, or visit in store if you prefer to check sizing and space for tents and apparel. Check current availability online before you make the trip to your local camping shop.
7. Complete Outdoors
Christchurch-based and proudly specialist, Complete Outdoors is a solid choice when you want a single camping shop that covers family camping, tramping, and even ski and snow season. Among NZ camping shops, it stands out for practical, quality-focused ranges that help you build a dependable setup for summer holidays and shoulder‑season missions alike.
Why it’s a top pick
Complete Outdoors keeps things straightforward: gear that works, advice that’s grounded in real trips, and a year‑round range that lets you tune your kit to the season. If you’re based in or passing through Canterbury and want a camping store that can outfit the whole family — then pivot to tramping or winter escapes — this is an easy recommendation.
Standout gear and brands
The emphasis is on reliable equipment and clothing that holds up across New Zealand conditions, with a clear sweet spot in family camping and walk‑friendly setups.
- Family camping: Shelters and campsite essentials built for repeat holiday use.
- Tramping essentials: Practical kit to keep weight and faff down on the track.
- Ski & snow: Winter layers and accessories for cold‑weather trips.
- Outdoor equipment: Sensible add‑ons that make camp life simpler and tidier.
Pricing and deals
Expect quality-led pricing with options to suit different trip styles. The best approach is to compare materials and features against how often you’ll use them, prioritising durability on shelters and weather protection, and keeping accessories aligned to your real needs.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Complete Outdoors is based in Christchurch. Browse their range on the website and check current hours and availability before visiting the store — a smart move if you’re timing a pickup around weekend plans or school holidays when popular items move fast.
8. Kiwi Camping
If you’re after a camping store that focuses squarely on tents and campsite essentials, Kiwi Camping is a straightforward pick among NZ camping shops. They promote a huge range of camping equipment and some of the best tents in NZ, with the convenience of buying online so you can sort your setup without the runaround.
Why it’s a top pick
Kiwi Camping keeps the decision-making clean: pick a tent that fits your crew, add the core campsite pieces, and you’re done. It suits families, first‑timers and casual weekenders who want reliable kit without wading through technical jargon, and who prefer the simplicity of ordering from a single, camping‑first retailer.
Standout gear and brands
The focus is practical tenting and the everyday gear that makes camp life comfortable and organised.
- Tents and shelters: Sizes for couples to families.
- Sleep systems: Mats, airbeds and sleeping bags.
- Camp furniture: Tables, chairs and storage.
- Cooking gear: Stoves, cookware and utensils.
- Lighting and power: Lanterns and simple power solutions.
Pricing and deals
Expect options across price points so you can match capacity and features to your budget. Use product filters to balance space, weight and materials against what you actually need — paying for durability on the tent, and choosing value picks for accessories you’ll use less often.
Where to shop (online and stores)
Shop the Kiwi Camping website to view the full range and purchase online. Check availability and delivery details on the product pages before you finalise your order, especially if you’re gearing up for a specific weekend or school‑holiday trip.
Before you hit the campsite
Now you’ve got the best camping shops lined up, choose the one that matches your trip, budget and timing. Nail the fundamentals first: tent capacity and season rating, a sleep system that suits overnight lows, and a stove you’ll actually use. Then check stock, delivery windows and returns, and—if you can—try key items in store so sizing and setup don’t surprise you on Friday night.
If you want a practical, NZ‑ready setup that also covers boating, trailers or motorhome bits, start with Action Outdoors. Browse the online range, scan Specials, and plan an Auckland pickup or delivery so you’re packed by Thursday. Lock in the core kit today, and the next fine spell is yours.