Just 12 minutes from the world-famous (in New Zealand anyway) Glowworm-filled Waitomo Caves, Orchard Valley is one of the most luxurious glamping spots in the country.

I arrived at the tent just as the afternoon sun was going down behind the trees, painting the glamping spot in the most incredible golden light. Three white ducks were patiently waiting down by the pond for me to unpack before they came a-knocking for their dinner. The hosts provide duck feed in a bucket in the bathroom if you want to make friends with these friendly neighbours.

The main tent is gigantic, with two beds, a big lounge, a sustainable indoor fire (ethanol burner) and plenty of books and puzzles. Outside to the left, there's a bathroom complete with a magnificent bath/rain shower and the hosts provide robes as well as take-home bamboo slippers and toothbrushes. On the other side is the open-air kitchen, where you'll find treats like fresh bread, milk and eggs, plus a s'mores kit for the outdoor fire.

One thing I loved about Orchard Valley was that it was eco-friendly and sustainably powered but wasn't totally off the beaten track. It had full cellphone reception, temperature control (in the form of indoor + outdoor fires, a ceiling fan and a wood-fired hot tub that I kept cool because it was 30 degrees), and was only five minutes drive from Countdown, takeaways and restaurants. It's a magical glamping experience without having to give up your home comforts.