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Camp Kekerengu

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Camp Kekerengu

Kaikōura Coast, Canterbury


Camp Kekerengu is set on the majestic Kaikōura Coast, sheep and beef farm, Ngaio Downs. Situated three hours from Christchurch, halfway between Blenheim and Kaikōura, you'll feel a million miles from anywhere as you gaze out at the beautiful night sky from your luxury tent.

Camp Kekerengu is an off-grid escape consisting of three beautifully decorated tents on an elevated site, each with a subtle nautical theme. Together with an atmospheric group kitchen and a covered lounging area, the campsite can accommodate up to ten people in summer, making it a fantastic choice for a group getaway. And best of all, the whole site and all its amenities are exclusively yours for the duration of your stay.

The Kaikōura Coast is one of New Zealand's travel gems. Stunning countryside, mountain views and coastal attractions, such as whale watching and the seal colony close by, make this an unforgettable holiday destination. Whether you choose to relax at the campsite, wander the tracks on the farm, or get out and about to explore the area, there is plenty to keep everyone happy.

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Camp Kekerengu is self-catering. Just bring your own food and chilly-bin and cook meals using the BBQ and facilities provided in your private camp kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, grab lunch, a snack or coffee at the nearby famous 'The Store' in Kekerengu - highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. Kaikōura, 40 mins away has plenty of great cafes if you feel like going further afield.

The nearest shop for basic food supplies is in Ward, a 20-minute drive away. The nearest supermarket is in Kaikōura, 40 minutes away. Make sure you're organised and get food supplies on the way, so you can settle straight in when you arrive.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Get active with a farm walk or bike ride - taking in views from the ocean to the mountains. Enjoy a social game of petanque or cricket, or gather round the large dining table for a good game of 500 and a glass of wine. A deep outdoor bath is great for an evening soak under the stars at the end of the day.

If you want to head further afield, walk 10-15 minutes down to the coast for a beautiful beach walk. For swimming, body boarding or diving, hit the beach at Okiwi Bay (a 15 minute drive away). For a fantastic family adventure, try Clarence River Rafting.

Mountain bikers, bring your bike and experience the nearby, brand new Middle Hill MTB Park... Surfers, bring your board and hit the waves at Mangamaunu Point - a world-famous local surf break (34kms away).

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Ngaio Downs is an 1100ha (2700 acres) hill country farm, which has been in the Todhunter family for the last three generations. The property is run as a sheep and cattle farm with approximately 4000 sheep and 600 cattle.

There are 3 generations currently living on the farm. Simon and Pip Todhunter (currently farming the property), Simon's parents, Bob and Vicki and Simon and Pip's children, Georgie, Honor, and Charlie.

Pip's always had an interest in tourism, having studied a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Tourism at Lincoln University. When she and Simon settled on the family farm - they quickly realised what a wonderful opportunity they had to create a special experience for tourists, both domestic and international to enjoy. That's where glamping came in!

Developing Camp Kekerengu was a labour of love for Pip and Simon. Careful thought went into every element of developing their site - even down to the beautiful kitchen sink! Simon and Pip have created something really special at Camp Kekerengu - and look forward to welcoming you to their coastal farm.

TESTIMONIALS

“ Awesome set up, great for families. Beautiful setting and feels like you are a world away. Would definitely recommend! ”

Jo Kymbrekos- 2025-03-06

20 / 20

“ Truly loved the setup and it gives you the camping feel with some nice luxury. The hosts were awesome, caring and friendly. The view is spectacular, with the sunrises and the starlit evenings. Will definitely go back again. ”

Nico Welman- 2026-05-14

1 / 20

“ Absolutely serenity. Four days fully out of the hustle and bustle. There is nothing quite like this place. We are planning to return every year for a reset and relax. ”

Sinead McGrannachan- 2026-05-01

2 / 20

“ We loved our stay at Camp Kekerengu as a group of nine adults. ”

Elora Markman- 2026-04-23

3 / 20

“ An incredible vista of a gorgeous coastline when one wakes and looks through the tent door on a fine morning. Hard to find a better start to a day. ”

David Lewis- 2026-04-16

4 / 20

“ Absolutely stunning location with unbeatable views. The living tented area was very comfortable and the wood burner stove made our evening very cosy.. ”

Nicky Browne- 2026-03-15

5 / 20

“ Stunning setting, comfy beds and excellent facilities. The view is amazing and it really is a place to relax and unwind. Thank you Pip and Simon for sharing your piece of paradise with us! ”

Angela Harwood- 2026-03-06

6 / 20

“ Beautiful accommodation with everything you need to relax! Nice and private and the views are stunning! Will be back again. ”

Sarah Atkins- 2026-02-22

7 / 20

“ We loved the view, it was a great glamping experience. ”

Jean Scott- 2026-01-16

8 / 20

“ Camp Kekerengu is a fabulous place to stay - epic views and beautiful facilities. ”

Anna Muir- 2026-01-09

9 / 20

“ Best place to stay with friends. ”

Kristoffer Tampus- 2025-12-05

10 / 20

“ Camp Kekerengu exceeded all expectations! The view, the facilities, everything was perfect. Couldn’t recommend more!!! ”

Sydnee Brown- 2025-12-02

11 / 20

“ Beautiful and relaxing setting. It feels like you are the only people in the world. ”

Emma Lucas- 2025-11-28

12 / 20

“ The most incredible place! It was so relaxing, everything we needed and a great little getaway. The host was very welcoming. We'll definitely be back. ”

Ann Freeman- 2025-11-08

13 / 20

“ Clean, warm and comfortable space nestled amongst a beautiful private view. ”

Sam Robertson- 2025-09-26

14 / 20

“ Camp Kekerengu, what a stunning part of the world. Everything was spot on and such a great experience. ”

Rose Mayell- 2025-09-22

15 / 20

“ An unreal place to relax and unwind. The panoramic views and gorgeous sunsets were amazing, as well as stargazing in the outdoor bath. Thank you Pip for a beautiful stay. ”

Yasmine Adams- 2025-07-29

16 / 20

“ This was our first glamping experience, 1000% will be back. We loved it, as did our kids. It had everything you needed and was also super warm, even though it was starting to cool down. The bedding and fires were luxe. ”

Victoria Robertson- 2025-06-09

17 / 20

“ Amazing spot to chill with friends and enjoy the peace, scenery and getting off the grid. ”

Sharon Lloyd- 2025-05-15

18 / 20

“ There is nothing at all that I could say negatively about Camp Kekerengu; it is just perfect in every way. We loved our stay here. ”

Gary Loader- 2025-03-24

19 / 20

“ Awesome set up, great for families. Beautiful setting and feels like you are a world away. Would definitely recommend! ”

Jo Kymbrekos- 2025-03-06

20 / 20

“ Truly loved the setup and it gives you the camping feel with some nice luxury. The hosts were awesome, caring and friendly. The view is spectacular, with the sunrises and the starlit evenings. Will definitely go back again. ”

Nico Welman- 2026-05-14

1 / 20

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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