Kia ora, fellow Kiwi campers! Ready to take your outdoor adventures to new heights?
Rooftop tents are taking New Zealand by storm, and for good reason.
Did you know that sales of rooftop tents in Aotearoa have skyrocketed by 150% since 2020?
It’s no wonder – these clever contraptions offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for exploring our stunning backyard.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Tongariro or a South Island road trip, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into the 7 best rooftop tents that’ll make your Kiwi camping dreams come true!
The 7 Best Rooftop Tents
1-RIDGEBACK HIGHRIZE RTT 1250
2-RIDGEBACK RTT
3-RIDGEBACK HD SHLL ECO RTT POLY
4-HI-VIEW 1600 ROOF TOP TENT
5-INTREPIDOR 2
6-STREAMLINER 1250 RTT
7-HIGHLAND 1300 ROOF TOP TENT
1-RIDGEBACK HIGHRIZE RTT 1250
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 99.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The Ridgeback HighRize is a big, comfy roof tent for camping. It’s easy to set up and has lots of space inside. It’s waterproof and has cool features like windows, a soft mattress, and lights. You can put it on most car roofs.
2-RIDGEBACK RTT
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 85.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The DARCHE Ridgeback is a top-quality roof tent for camping. It’s easy to set up, looks cool, and fits most cars. It has a comfy mattress, lights, and good airflow. It’s waterproof and keeps you dry. It’s great for outdoor adventures.
3-RIDGEBACK HD SHLL ECO RTT POLY
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 85.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The DARCHE Ridgeback is a top-notch roof tent for camping. It’s made of aluminum and comes in eco-friendly or canvas options. It’s easy to set up, comfy inside, and fits most cars. It has good airflow and keeps you dry in rain.
4-HI-VIEW 1600 ROOF TOP TENT
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 64.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The Hi-View 1600 Roof Top Tent is great for quick trips or long drives. It’s easy to set up and gives you extra space. You’ll sleep high up, safe from animals. It’s tough and works well in different weather.
5-INTREPIDOR 2
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 56.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The Intrepidor 2 Roof Top Tent is perfect for new travelers. It’s light and easy to set up on big cars. You’ll sleep comfortably with great views. It has good air flow and keeps you dry in rain. It fits most roof racks.
6-STREAMLINER 1250 RTT
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 69.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The Streamliner 1250 Roof Top Tent is small but comfy. It’s tough like other Ridgeback tents but lighter. It has strong walls, a soft mattress, and a built-in light. It’s easy to get in and out. It lasts long with a 3-year warranty.
7-HIGHLAND 1300 ROOF TOP TENT
DARCHE
WEIGHT: 72.0 kg
WARRANTY: 3 Years
The Darche Highland 1300 Roof Top Tent is great for trips. It’s light and strong, with a thin top. It has tough walls, a comfy bed, and a window to see stars. It’s roomy and has lights inside. Perfect for outdoor adventures.
What makes a Great Rooftop Tent for New Zealand Conditions?
We’ve been using rooftop tents all over New Zealand for years, and we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes them great for our unique weather and landscapes. So what to take care of while selecting best rooftop tents ?
First up, durability is key. Our weather can change faster than you can say “fish and chips,” so your tent needs to be tough. We once had a cheap tent that couldn’t handle a windy night in Wellington – not fun!
Look for strong materials and good stitching that can stand up to sun, wind, and rain. That is what we need right ,while selecting our best rooftop tents.
Speaking of rain, waterproofing is super important. If you’ve ever been camping on the West Coast, you know how it can pour!
A good tent should keep you dry even in heavy downpours.
Easy setup is another must-have. Who wants to spend ages putting up a tent when you could be enjoying the beach? The best tents pop up in just a few minutes.
Space matters too. You don’t want to feel like you’re stuck in a tin can, especially on longer trips. Make sure you can sit up comfortably and have room for your gear.
Don’t forget about the mattress! A comfy night’s sleep makes all the difference after a day of hiking or surfing.
Lastly, your tent should fit well on popular Kiwi vehicles like the Toyota Hilux or Nissan Navara. You don’t want to be stuck in the car park wondering how to attach it!
Remember, a good rooftop tent is worth the investment. It’ll keep you comfy and dry on all your New Zealand adventures, from the beaches of Northland to the mountains of the South Island.
How to Choose the Best Rooftop Tent for Your Kiwi Adventures
We’ve learned a thing or two about picking the perfect rooftop tent for our New Zealand adventures. Here’s what you need to know:
First up, check your car’s roof load. Not all vehicles can handle a heavy tent, so make sure yours can take the weight.
We once saw a mate’s roof rack bend under a tent that was too heavy – not a good start to a camping trip!
Think about where you’ll be camping. If you’re heading to the South Island, you’ll want good insulation for those chilly nights. And don’t forget the sandflies!
A tent with fine mesh is a must if you don’t want to be eaten alive.
Comfort is important, but so is practicality. A tent that’s easy to set up and pack down will make your trips much more enjoyable. Trust us, you don’t want to be fighting with your tent in the rain!
Installation and Maintenance Tips for Rooftop Tents in NZ
Now, let’s talk about setting up and looking after your tent:
You can install your tent yourself if you’re handy, but there’s no shame in getting help. Many outdoor stores in NZ offer installation services. It might cost a bit extra, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
Our salty air can be tough on tents. Give your tent a good rinse with fresh water after beach camping trips. And don’t forget to let it dry completely before storing it away.
Speaking of storage, find a cool, dry place for your tent in the off-season. A garage is perfect if you have one. If not, even under your bed will do – just make sure it’s in a waterproof bag.
Remember, a well-chosen and well-maintained rooftop tent will give you years of great Kiwi camping adventures. So take your time choosing, and look after it well.
Conclusion
There you have it, mates – the 7 best rooftop tents to elevate your Kiwi camping game in 2024!
Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry explorer or a weekend warrior, there’s a perfect rooftop tent waiting to be your home away from home. Remember, the best adventures start where the sealed road ends, so get out there and make some memories!
From the golden beaches of the Coromandel to the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps, New Zealand is your oyster.
So, which rooftop tent will be your ticket to outdoor bliss?
Don’t wait – the great Kiwi outdoors is calling!
FAQ
Are rooftop tents legal in New Zealand?
Absolutely! Rooftop tents are legal in NZ, but make sure your setup complies with NZTA regulations for vehicle modifications. Keep your tent within your vehicle’s width and be mindful of height restrictions, especially for ferry crossings.
Can I use a rooftop tent for freedom camping in New Zealand?
Yes, you can! However, always check local bylaws first. Many areas allow freedom camping with certified self-contained vehicles only. While most rooftop tents don’t qualify as self-contained, they’re perfect for DOC campsites and holiday parks across Aotearoa.
How do rooftop tents handle New Zealand’s windy conditions?
Kia kaha! Most quality rooftop tents are designed to withstand strong winds. They’re generally more stable than ground tents, especially when camping in exposed coastal areas like Wellington or the Catlins. Always use guy ropes for extra stability on particularly blustery nights.
Do I need a specific vehicle to use a rooftop tent in New Zealand?
Not at all, mate! While popular on utes and 4WDs, rooftop tents can be fitted to most vehicles with a roof rack system. Just check your vehicle’s dynamic and static roof load capacity. Remember, a Suzuki Swift can rock a rooftop tent just as well as a Toyota Hilux – you might just need to pack a bit lighter!
