Best Camping Tents NZ: 10 Top Picks & Where To Buy In 2025

The promise of a New Zealand camping trip is as irresistible as it is unpredictable. One day you’re pitching up beneath a pohutukawa, lulled by the hush of surf; the next, you’re bracing against a southerly or hunkering down as rain sweeps in off the ranges. Out here, your tent is more than just shelter—it's your guarantee of comfort, safety, and a good night’s sleep when the weather decides to put you to the test.

Choosing the right tent isn’t just about ticking off a checklist. It’s about understanding how capacity, weight, waterproof ratings, UV protection (especially to New Zealand’s AS/NZS 4399:2017 standard), durability, and ease of setup all translate into real-world performance from the beach to the bush. Whether you’re tramping solo, wrangling the family at a holiday park, or freedom camping under the stars, the right gear makes all the difference—and so do the rules. Before you head off, it pays to get familiar with New Zealand’s freedom camping regulations (see DOC guidance), so you can explore with peace of mind.

Action Outdoors is here to help you get it right, with not just quality tents but the extras that matter—think Orvis Wading Boots for river crossings, weatherproof jackets for sudden downpours, portable solar panels, and clever storage bags to keep your kit sorted. Whatever your adventure style or budget, you’ll find a tent to suit—and the essentials to match.

Ready to find your fit? Here are ten of the best camping tents available in NZ for 2025, plus where to buy them and the key features to look for.

1. Kiwi Camping Takahe 6 Family Tent

A stalwart of Kiwi camping, the Takahe 6 Family Tent from Kiwi Camping is built to tackle Aotearoa’s unpredictable conditions. Its canvas/polycotton blend offers breathability in warm months and insulation when temperatures dip. Spacious enough for six yet tough enough for freedom‐camping, this rig feels like home whether you’re at a DOC campsite or a long-stay tour.

Tent Overview

The Takahe 6 features a classic A-frame structure with a sewn-in groundsheet and a large, weather-resistant vestibule. Its sturdy steel poles and heavy-duty guy ropes stand firm in coastal gusts or alpine breezes. Inside, the tent sleeps six adults comfortably, with generous head height so you won’t be stooped all weekend.

Key Features and Specifications

• Floor area: 3.4 m² per person (total ~20 m²)
• Peak internal height: 2.1 m
• Fabric: 340 g/m² canvas/polycotton with UV-resistant treatment
• Ventilation: Adjustable roof vents and mesh windows
• Weight: ~30 kg packed
• Packed dimensions: 80 × 40 × 40 cm
• Fire-retardant rating: Complies with NZ/EU standards

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional durability in sun, wind and rain
• Breathable canvas minimises condensation
• Roomy interior and large vestibule for gear

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky to transport
• Pitching involves multiple poles and guy lines
• Premium price point

Best Use Case

Ideal for family getaways at holiday parks or extended freedom-camping trips near DOC areas. If you value a roomy living space and long-term resilience over pack weight, the Takahe 6 delivers reliable performance from coastal camps to high-country sites.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can purchase the Takahe 6 Family Tent directly from Kiwi Camping NZ. Expect to invest around NZ$1,200 – 1,500 for this high-quality canvas rig.

2. Zempire Evo TM V2 4 Person+ Air Tent

When time is tight but comfort is non-negotiable, an inflatable tent like the Zempire Evo TM V2 delivers. Hailed as a market leader in air-tent technology, Zempire has spent over a decade perfecting its designs right here in NZ to handle coastal gusts, driving rain and harsh UV. The Evo TM V2 ups the ante with a generous 4-person+ footprint and a robust porch that keeps boots and gear mud-free.

Tent Overview

The Evo TM V2 relies on Zempire’s AirPoles system, so pitching takes just minutes—no fiddly poles required. Simply slot in the inflatable beams, pump them up, and clip on the rainfly. Designed and tested in the South Island, this tent stands firm against southerlies and downpours alike. Inside, the living area flows into a sizeable sheltered porch, giving you extra room for cooking, storage or sheltering pets.

Key Features and Specifications

• Waterproof rating: 4,000 mm hydrostatic head on the fly
• UV protection: High-density, UV-resistant polyester fabric
• Living area: 4.5 m² interior plus 1.8 m² porch
• AirPoles: Four inflatable beams for rapid, reliable setup
• Weight: ~18.8 kg (packed)
• Packed dimensions: ~80 × 38 × 38 cm
• Ventilation: Adjustable ground vents and mesh panels

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ultra-quick setup with included pump
• Exceptional stability—air beams flex rather than snap
• Spacious porch ideal for boots and wet gear

Cons:

• Requires you to carry a pump (manual or rechargeable)
• Heavier and bulkier than traditional pole tents
• Premium price point

Best Use Case

Ideal for drive-up family weekends, glamping stays or any trip where a fast pitch and roomy living quarters are a must. If you’d rather spend minutes pumping than wrestling poles, and want a sturdy all-weather base, the Evo TM V2 ticks all the boxes.

Where to Buy and Price Range

The Zempire Evo TM V2 4 Person+ Air Tent is stocked by retailers such as EquipOutdoors. Plan on investing around NZ$1,499 for this premium air tent.

3. Macpac Polaris 3 Person Tent

Before heading high into alpine tussock or setting out on a multi-day tramping expedition, you need a shelter that strikes the right balance between weight, strength and weather defence. The Macpac Polaris 3 Person Tent delivers on all fronts: a sturdy dome design with premium materials, yet light enough to carry when every gram counts.

Tent Overview

The Polaris sports a double-wall construction—an inner mesh tent for excellent ventilation and a full-coverage flysheet that keeps driving rain at bay. Its three-pole dome frame sheds wind efficiently, creating a stable profile in exposed spots. Inside, there’s space for two sleepers plus gear, or three if you don’t mind a cosy squeeze.

Key Features and Specifications

• Hydrostatic head: > 5,000 mm on both fly and floor for superior waterproofing
• Poles: Lightweight DAC alloy; colour-coded for fuss-free pitching
• Zippers: Smooth-running YKK sliders for durability
• Floor area: 2.1 m² internal; 0.6 m² porch
• Ventilation: Twin lower vents and a large mesh ceiling to guard against condensation
• Weight: Approx. 2.9 kg total
• Packed size: 46 × 17 cm (approx.)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional durability in harsh alpine or coastal conditions
• Low pack weight ideal for serious backpackers
• Excellent airflow keeps the interior dry and comfortable

Cons:

• Small porch limits gear storage outside the sleeping area
• Moderate pitching complexity in strong winds
• Premium tent price, even on sale

Best Use Case

Built for backcountry adventures, the Polaris is perfect for hut-to-hut treks, high-country basecamps and any trip where weight and weather resistance are top priorities. If you value performance over sprawling living space, this tent won’t let you down.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can pick up the Macpac Polaris 3 Person Tent from Outdoor Shop NZ. It retails around NZ$699.99, often dropping to NZ$489.99 during sales.

4. Macpac Apollo 2 Person Tent

If you’re after a no-fuss shelter that won’t stretch your budget, the Macpac Apollo 2 Person Tent delivers. This dome-style design makes pitching straightforward thanks to its colour-coded poles, and it strikes a nice balance between weight, space and cost—ideal for weekend adventures or first-time backpackers.

Tent Overview

The Apollo is a two-person, double-wall dome tent built for simplicity. The inner tent attaches easily to the flysheet with lightweight clips, while the colour-coded DAC alloy poles slot straight into place. With two doors and twin vestibules, it gives each occupant their own entry and a little extra room for boots or a daypack.

Key Features and Specifications

• Hydrostatic head: ~2,000 mm on the fly and floor for moderate rain defence
• Poles: DAC aluminium, colour-coded for easy pitching
• Ventilation: Adjustable fly vents and mesh panels to reduce condensation
• Storage: Interior pockets and gear loft anchor points
• Floor area: 2.8 m² internal; 0.6 m² per vestibule
• Weight: Approx. 2.4 kg (packed)
• Packed size: 46 × 17 cm

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very user-friendly setup, even in low light
• Compact pack size fits most backpacks
• Affordable entry point for beginner campers

Cons:

• Small living area limits gear storage inside
• Hydrostatic head is lower than premium tents—less ideal for prolonged downpours
• Vestibules are neat but offer limited shelter for cooking equipment or kit

Best Use Case

Perfect for two-night weekend tramps, beginner backpacking trips and freedom-camping spots where weight and simplicity matter more than sprawling living space. If you value a quick pitch and minimal pack bulk, the Apollo won’t let you down.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You’ll find the Macpac Apollo 2 Person Tent at Macpac NZ. RRP is NZ$529.99, but it often drops to around NZ$370.99 during sales.

5. Dometic Pico FTC 2 TC 2 Person Air Swag

For campers who prize speed and simplicity, the Dometic Pico FTC 2 TC Air Swag is a game-changer. This two-person inflatable swag combines tent and mattress in one, so you can be off the ground and sound asleep in minutes. There’s no fiddling with poles or separate inner tents—inflatable tubes replace the frame, while an integrated foam mattress guarantees a comfortable night no matter how rough the ground.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dual-layer waterproof cover with fully taped seams
• Integrated high-density foam mattress
• Inflatable support tubes—no alloy poles needed
• Wide D-door entry for easy access
• Packs into a compact carry bag for simple transport

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ultra-quick setup—ideal when daylight’s fading
• All-in-one design means no extra mattress or tent bag
• Excellent waterproofing for sudden downpours

Cons:

• Very limited living space—just enough room to sleep
• Heavier and bulkier than a comparable two-person tent
• Less ventilation than mesh-walled shelters

Best Use Case

Perfect for hunters, anglers or anyone racing daylight, this swag excels on quick weekend trips and temporary camps. If you need a no-fuss shelter that packs up in seconds and includes a comfy mattress, the Pico FTC 2 TC has you covered.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can find the Dometic Pico FTC 2 TC 2 Person Air Swag at Macpac NZ, typically priced around NZ$1,030.99.

6. Wanderer Geo Elite 3 ENV Dome Tent — 3 Person

The Wanderer Geo Elite 3 ENV Dome Tent strikes a fine balance between user-friendly design and reliable weather protection. Built around ENV™ waterproof technology and a sturdy dome frame, this three-person tent gives you two entrances, generous headroom and enough living space to keep everyone comfortable when the weather turns unpredictable.

Tent Overview

Inside the Geo Elite 3, a spacious interior can sleep up to three adults—or two with gear—while dual doors and twin vestibules make in-and-out traffic a breeze. Its pre-attached poles form a rigid dome that handles wind gusts well, and the full-coverage flysheet shields the inner tent from rain and morning dew. Ventilation is managed via mesh walls, fly vents and sealed seams, so you won’t wake up in a damp cocoon.

Key Features and Specifications

• Flysheet hydrostatic head: 3,000 mm for solid rain defence
• Sealed seams: Fully taped to prevent leaks
• Poles: Lightweight galvanised steel with quick-clip attachments
• Entrances: Two D-shaped doors with vestibules totalling 1.2 m² of sheltered storage
• Ventilation: Mesh inner tent, adjustable fly vents and roof vent
• Interior extras: Lantern hanging loop and corner gear pockets
• Floor area: 4.0 m² internal
• Peak height: 1.6 m at centre
• Weight: Approx. 3.6 kg total
• Packed size: ~47 × 21 cm

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Straightforward, colour-coded setup ideal for first-time campers
• Proven ENV waterproofing keeps interiors dry in sustained showers
• Twin entrances and vestibules offer flexible gear storage or dog shelter

Cons:

• At ~3.6 kg, it’s heavier than many backpacking tents
• Vestibule space is modest compared to larger dome designs
• Steel poles add weight though boost overall stability

Best Use Case

Perfectly at home on family car-camping trips or weekend getaways, the Geo Elite 3 is especially suited to changeable New Zealand weather. It’s a solid choice if you want quick pitching, a sturdy frame and enough room for three sleepers without lugging a heavy canvas tent.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can pick up the Wanderer Geo Elite 3 ENV Dome Tent from Macpac NZ for around NZ$399.99.

7. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 Person Backpacking Tent

When every gram counts and the weather can turn on a dime, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX delivers a winning combination of light weight, durability and livable space. Routinely lauded in outdoor gear awards, this two-person tent has earned its reputation for storm-ready performance on exposed ridges as well as reliable comfort on multi-day tramping trips.

Tent Overview

The Hubba Hubba NX is a freestanding, double-wall tent designed for two occupants and their kit. Its inner structure features large mesh panels that maximise airflow and minimise condensation, while the full-coverage rainfly seals out driving rain and wind. A simple two-pole assembly and MSR's colour-coded clip attachments make for a straightforward pitch, even when daylight’s fading.

Key Features and Specifications

• Poles: Easton Syclone aluminium—for a blend of strength and low weight
• Floor: 1,200 mm hydrostatic head bathtub-style floor to keep ground moisture at bay
• Rainfly: Fully seam-taped with guy-out points for wind stability
• Interior space: 2.3 m² floor area; 0.6 m² vestibule per side
• Ventilation: Mesh walls, adjustable fly vents and vestibule vents
• Weight: Approx. 1.72 kg packed (minimum trail weight ~1.54 kg)
• Packed size: 46 × 16 cm

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Outstanding weight-to-space ratio for serious backpackers
• Excellent airflow and condensation control via mesh-to-fly integration
• Freestanding design simplifies setup on uneven terrain

Cons:

• Premium price tag reflects advanced materials and design
• Vestibule space is limited, making gear storage outside the sleeping area snug

Best Use Case

The Hubba Hubba NX shines on multi-day tramping trips, alpine routes and any scenario where pack weight is at a premium but storms are still a possibility. If you’re a hiker seeking a tent that combines lightweight performance with enough room for two and their overnight gear, this model won’t let you down.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can find the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 Person Backpacking Tent at Dwights NZ. Expect to invest around NZ$759.99 – 899, depending on seasonal promotions and stock levels.

8. Coleman Sundome 4 Person Dome Tent

For campers who just want a simple, reliable shelter without the fuss, the Coleman Sundome 4 Person Dome Tent ticks the boxes. Its minimalist dome shape and WeatherTec™ system ensure that pitching up takes only minutes—and your gear stays dry even if a shower rolls through. While it won’t rival premium models for long-term durability, it’s a perfect introduction to camping in NZ’s unpredictable conditions.

Tent Overview

The Sundome features a straightforward two-pole design with colour-coded clips that slot onto the tent body, making setup a breeze. Coleman’s WeatherTec™ system—complete with inverted seams and a bathtub-style floor—keeps water out when the heavens open. Mesh panels on the roof and door improve airflow during balmy evenings, reducing condensation without compromising on weather protection.

Key Features and Specifications

• WeatherTec™ system with welded floor and inverted seams for basic waterproofing
• Pre-threaded, shock-corded fibreglass poles for quick assembly
• Large D-door entry with zip-in mesh screen to keep insects at bay
• Integrated ground vent and over-door awning vents for airflow
• Weight: approximately 4.6 kg (including poles and rainfly)
• Packed dimensions: around 50 × 26 × 26 cm

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very affordable option for casual campers
• Quick and intuitive setup, even in fading light
• Adequate waterproofing for weekend trips

Cons:

• Materials are less robust than higher-end models
• Limited head height (peak ~1.2 m) and interior space for taller users
• Basic ventilation can lead to condensation on colder nights

Best Use Case

This tent is ideal for beginners, family outings at holiday parks and casual weekend escapes where ease of use and low cost are top priorities. If you’re not hauling gear far from your vehicle and don’t need a technical shelter for harsh backcountry conditions, the Sundome will keep you dry and covered.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You can pick up the Coleman Sundome 4 Person Dome Tent from leading outdoor retailers such as Torpedo7. Prices typically range from NZ$199 to NZ$299, making it one of the most budget-friendly four-person tents on the NZ market.

9. The North Face Tadpole 3 Tent

If you’re planning to tour by bike or take the family on an extended camping road trip, the Tadpole 3 from The North Face strikes a smart balance between convenience, UV defence and interior space. Designed as a freestanding shelter, it’s easy to pitch on gravel, grass or a campsite concrete slab, and the UPF-rated fly keeps harmful rays at bay during long sunny days on the trail.

Tent Overview

The Tadpole 3 is a three-person dome tent that uses quick-clip poles and hub connectors for a fuss-free setup. Two large doors and vestibules provide separate access points, so you don’t need to climb over your tent-mates when nature calls. The inner tent features mesh panels to maximise airflow, while the full-coverage rainfly offers reliable protection in drizzly or windy conditions.

Key Features and Specifications

• Fabric: Ripstop polyester inner and fly, both with a UPF 50+ rating to guard against UV exposure
• Poles: Hubbed, shock-corded aluminium poles for fast pitching
• Floor area: 4.3 m² internal sleeping space, plus two vestibules totalling 1.2 m²
• Peak height: 1.4 m—enough to sit up comfortably without feeling cramped
• Ventilation: Mesh-lined roof vents and side vents to reduce condensation
• Weight: Approx. 4.2 kg packed
• Packed dimensions: 55 × 20 cm

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Rapid, one-person pitching thanks to hub-style poles
• Excellent UV protection with UPF 50+ fly fabric
• Dual-door design and generous vestibules keep gear organised

Cons:

• Heavier pack weight compared to many backpacking tents
• Mid-range price point puts it above entry-level family tents

Best Use Case

The Tadpole 3 really shines for touring cyclists, weekend road-trippers and families who spend a few nights in one spot without carrying gear on their backs. Its roomy vestibules are great for stashing panniers or muddy boots, and the sturdy hub-pole system means you can set up in fading light or a passing shower without fuss.

Where to Buy and Price Range

The North Face Tadpole 3 Tent is stocked by major New Zealand outdoor retailers such as Torpedo7 and speciality stores like Macpac. Expect to pay around NZ$549 – 699 depending on seasonal offers.

10. Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Backpacking Tent

In the ultralight tent arena, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 stands out as a top performer for hikers who count every gram. This two-person shelter offers a freestanding, double-wall design that maximises airflow and visibility while keeping pack weight to a minimum. It’s a favourite among thru-hikers and ridge-walkers for its smart layout and robust construction.

Tent Overview

The Tiger Wall UL2 pairs an inner tent of almost all mesh with a lightweight rainfly, striking a near-ideal balance between ventilation and weather defence. Two doors and twin vestibules give each occupant their own entry and dedicated space for packs and boots. DAC Featherlite poles form a stable frame that’s quick to pitch and resilient in gusty conditions.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: Approx. 1.04 kg total (floor, fly and poles)
• Packed size: Shoebox-style stuff sack, roughly 45 × 15 cm
• Pole system: DAC Featherlite NSL with LoftGrip pole ends for rapid setup
• Interior: High mesh panel ratio for panoramic views and airflow; two storage pockets and a gear-loft attachment
• Vestibules: Dual vestibules totalling generous covered space for backpacks or stove setups
• Floor: Bathtub-style floor to keep ground moisture at bay

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional weight savings for multi-day trips
• Dual-door and vestibule layout keeps gear organised and easily accessible
• Excellent ventilation minimises condensation on humid nights

Cons:

• Premium price point compared to entry-level backpacking tents
• Limited living space means lower headroom and minimal communal area

Best Use Case

Ideal for weight-conscious treks, alpine crossings or extended thru-hikes, the Tiger Wall UL2 excels where pack weight and quick pitching matter most. If you’re covering long distances or tackling technical terrain, this tent delivers reliable shelter without weighing you down.

Where to Buy and Price Range

You’ll find the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 at specialist outdoor retailers and importers across New Zealand. Expect to invest in the region of NZ$1,200 – 1,400 for this ultralight two-person tent.

11. Ready to Make Your Choice

By now you’ll have a good feel for what each tent brings to the campsite—whether you’re after roomy family space, ultralight packability, a lightning-fast setup or rock-solid durability in stormy conditions. From canvas classics to air-beam innovations, there’s a shelter here to suit every style of camping in Aotearoa.

Before you hit the road, take a moment to review New Zealand’s freedom camping regulations and make sure your chosen tent meets UPF standards—look for UPF ratings per AS/NZS 4399:2017 to guard against our strong summer sun.

To round out your kit, pair any of these tents with the right accessories: a sturdy pair of Orvis Wading Boots for river crossings, a weather-resistant jacket for sudden southerlies, a portable solar panel for off-grid power and smart storage bags to keep your gear organised and dry.

Ready to gear up? Explore Action Outdoors’ full range of tents, accessories and outdoor essentials—everything you need to make your next NZ camping trip one to remember.