River Gypsy Glamping

Bus in Tapu, New Zealand

  1. 9 guests
  2. 3 bedrooms
  3. 5 beds
  4. 1 bath
Rated 4.85 out of 5 stars.643 reviews
Hosted by Rebecca
  1. Superhost
  2. 10 years hosting

Listing highlights

Exceptional check-in experience

Recent guests gave the check-in process a 5-star rating.

Peace and quiet

Guests say this home is in a quiet area.

Mountain and valley views

Soak up the views during your stay.
We have two buses side by side for group bookings for four or more people just open now for Xmas period. This private wee campsite has all the amenities for friends or family looking for privacy this summer. Beautifully surrounded by nature,the river and sea are right here on your doorstep. Cathedral Cove and Hot Water beach are just over the hill and all the Coromandel activities are within an hours drive.

The space
Perched on the side of a mountain by the river and sea we have created a camping experience which is unique.If you fancy living in a tiny home or off the grid, start with a weekend away in Lady our 1950's Bedford House Bus. She is old so don't expect luxury, this is budget glamping with your own privacy. It's an indoor outdoor experience with the usual NZ nature ie sometimes bugs and the odd possum. We do have internet but not in all areas and encourage getting offline. There is a basic compost toilet and hot shower just outside in the bush from the bus. Please expect an eclectic mix of fabrics, appliances and decor - We upcycle, recycle and reuse good quality vintage products.
We live on 8 acres of native bush, right opposite the river and with easy Coromandel walks and lots of nooks and crannies to enjoy. The Rapaura Watergardens and Mahara sculpture garden are just up this very road and the Square Kauri tree. Also further along a beautiful private little known waterfall near Coroglen. We have the best of both worlds here, the stunning coast road half way to Coromandel Town from Thames, and over this gravel road is the Square Kauri tree, Hot water Beach and Cathedral Cove.
Just 2km to the beach for fish and chips and the local pub and store and the last fuel before Coromandel. So much to see and do on your doorstep. We love this untouched valley full of artists and fishermen, Beautiful Native bush and Swimming Holes.

Guest access
The Gold bus is very modern with all the bells and whistles and can sleep three. Beautiful queen bedroom and pull out double bed. Perfect for mum and dad to have a separate space.
The Grey Bedford bus is our original accommodation a complete contrast having an old wooden interior and bohemian set up with fire in colder months. Sleeps five two doubles a single and small pull out single. Both buses complete a great family glamping experience.
Also onsite
- A separate outside hot shower, bush bath and compost loo
- full Camping kitchen with Fridge Cooker BBQ and firepit area.
-Large camp kitchen available to use with fridge/oven and most kitchen things
- Linen Provided on beds but please bring towels
-Pizza oven available for groups of 4 or more when staying 3 nights. This facility is at the discretion of us and dependant on our plans( we cannot light the oven up for two people sorry) and if there is a fire ban.

Other things to note
The house truck has a steep narrow entrance up to the king bedroom area not suitable for disabled people, although sleeping downstairs in the double bed would work fine.
Toilet - The Humanure toilet (compost ) may be a new experience for you, please follow the instructions and we will empty for you regularly. Its a really clean and non smelly eco system. Please dont expect hotel luxury, this is a back to basics experience.
The Camp Kitchen is an indoor/outdoor flow. We try and keep it as clean as possible but you may find dust/critters and other creatures at times. Food stocks are stored away.
NOTE : The land here can be steep in many areas. There are steps up and down and around the nooks and crannies. Not suitable if you are frail or have serious health issues.

Where you'll sleep

Bedroom 1
1 king bed
Bedroom 2
1 double bed
Bedroom 3
1 queen bed, 1 double bed, 1 single bed, 1 couch

What this place offers

Mountain view
Valley view
Beach access
Kitchen
Wi-Fi
Unavailable: Carbon monoxide alarm
Unavailable: Smoke alarm

Select check-in date

Add your travel dates for exact pricing

4.85 out of 5 stars from 643 reviews

0 of 0 items showing

Overall rating

  1. 5 stars, 88% of reviews
  2. 4 stars, 10% of reviews
  3. 3 stars, 2% of reviews
  4. 2 stars, 0% of reviews
  5. 1 stars, 0% of reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars for cleanliness

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for accuracy

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for check-in

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for communication

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for location

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for value

Where you’ll be

Tapu, Waikato, New Zealand

The Tapu Coroglen Road is an artists Haven with lots of attractions at your doorstep and within an hours drive in any direction.
Cafe and water gardens 5 minutes drive
Mahara Sculpture garden, shop, gallery and walk 5 minutes drive
Beach 2 minutes drive
River 2 minutes walk
Shop, takeaway fish and chips 5 minues drive
Pub and off licence 5 minutes drive
Fuel in the village aswell.

Other recommendations
The Mussell Kitchen
Purangi Winery
Castle Rock Winery
Catherdral Cove
New Chums Beach

Meet your host

Superhost
812 reviews
4.86 out of 5 average rating
10 years of hosting
Lives in Thames, New Zealand
Hi there nature lovers I am bee and i co parent my children half the week here and wish to share my piece of paradise with like minded folk.. I run this little business alone and it's a camping experience for those who are not too fussy about living close to nature. I enjoy conversations about travels culture and food. Love a good banter about your life experiences but also like you to enjoy your beautiful privacy here.
Show more. Open Host profile.

Rebecca is a Superhost

Superhosts are experienced, highly-rated hosts who are committed to providing great stays for guests.
Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.

Things to know

House rules

Check-in after 2:00 pm
Checkout before 10:00 am
9 guests maximum

Safety & property

No carbon monoxide alarm
No smoke alarm
Heights without rails or protection

Cancellation policy