NZ Herald
  • Home
  • Latest news
  • Video
  • New Zealand
  • Sport
  • World
  • Business
  • Entertainment
  • Podcasts
  • Quizzes
  • Opinion
  • Lifestyle
  • Travel
  • Viva
  • Weather forecasts

Subscriptions

  • Herald Premium
  • Viva Premium
  • The Listener
  • BusinessDesk

Sections

  • Latest news
  • New Zealand
    • All New Zealand
    • Crime
    • Politics
    • Education
    • Open Justice
    • Scam Update
    • The Great NZ Road Trip
  • On The Up
  • World
    • All World
    • Australia
    • Asia
    • UK
    • United States
    • Middle East
    • Europe
    • Pacific
  • Business
    • All Business
    • MarketsSharesCurrencyCommoditiesStock TakesCrypto
    • Markets with Madison
    • Media Insider
    • Business analysis
    • Personal financeKiwiSaverInterest ratesTaxInvestment
    • EconomyInflationGDPOfficial cash rateEmployment
    • Small business
    • Business reportsMood of the BoardroomProject AucklandSustainable business and financeCapital markets reportAgribusiness reportInfrastructure reportDynamic business
    • Deloitte Top 200 Awards
    • CompaniesAged CareAgribusinessAirlinesBanking and financeConstructionEnergyFreight and logisticsHealthcareManufacturingMedia and MarketingRetailTelecommunicationsTourism
  • Opinion
    • All Opinion
    • Analysis
    • Editorials
    • Business analysis
    • Premium opinion
    • Letters to the editor
  • Sport
    • All Sport
    • OlympicsParalympics
    • RugbySuper RugbyNPCAll BlacksBlack FernsRugby sevensSchool rugby
    • CricketBlack CapsWhite Ferns
    • Racing
    • NetballSilver Ferns
    • LeagueWarriorsNRL
    • FootballWellington PhoenixAuckland FCAll WhitesFootball FernsEnglish Premier League
    • GolfNZ Open
    • MotorsportFormula 1
    • Boxing
    • UFC
    • BasketballNBABreakersTall BlacksTall Ferns
    • Tennis
    • Cycling
    • Athletics
    • SailingAmerica's CupSailGP
    • Rowing
  • Lifestyle
    • All Lifestyle
    • Viva - Food, fashion & beauty
    • Society Insider
    • Royals
    • Sex & relationships
    • Food & drinkRecipesRecipe collectionsRestaurant reviewsRestaurant bookings
    • Health & wellbeing
    • Fashion & beauty
    • Pets & animals
    • The Selection - Shop the trendsShop fashionShop beautyShop entertainmentShop giftsShop home & living
    • Milford's Investing Place
  • Entertainment
    • All Entertainment
    • TV
    • MoviesMovie reviews
    • MusicMusic reviews
    • BooksBook reviews
    • Culture
    • ReviewsBook reviewsMovie reviewsMusic reviewsRestaurant reviews
  • Travel
    • All Travel
    • News
    • New ZealandNorthlandAucklandWellingtonCanterburyOtago / QueenstownNelson-TasmanBest NZ beaches
    • International travelAustraliaPacific IslandsEuropeUKUSAAfricaAsia
    • Rail holidays
    • Cruise holidays
    • Ski holidays
    • Luxury travel
    • Adventure travel
  • Kāhu Māori news
  • Environment
    • All Environment
    • Our Green Future
  • Talanoa Pacific news
  • Property
    • All Property
    • Property Insider
    • Interest rates tracker
    • Residential property listings
    • Commercial property listings
  • Health
  • Technology
    • All Technology
    • AI
    • Social media
  • Rural
    • All Rural
    • Dairy farming
    • Sheep & beef farming
    • Horticulture
    • Animal health
    • Rural business
    • Rural life
    • Rural technology
    • Opinion
    • Audio & podcasts
  • Weather forecasts
    • All Weather forecasts
    • Kaitaia
    • Whangārei
    • Dargaville
    • Auckland
    • Thames
    • Tauranga
    • Hamilton
    • Whakatāne
    • Rotorua
    • Tokoroa
    • Te Kuiti
    • Taumaranui
    • Taupō
    • Gisborne
    • New Plymouth
    • Napier
    • Hastings
    • Dannevirke
    • Whanganui
    • Palmerston North
    • Levin
    • Paraparaumu
    • Masterton
    • Wellington
    • Motueka
    • Nelson
    • Blenheim
    • Westport
    • Reefton
    • Kaikōura
    • Greymouth
    • Hokitika
    • Christchurch
    • Ashburton
    • Timaru
    • Wānaka
    • Oamaru
    • Queenstown
    • Dunedin
    • Gore
    • Invercargill
  • Meet the journalists
  • Promotions & competitions
  • OneRoof property listings
  • Driven car news

Puzzles & Quizzes

  • Puzzles
    • All Puzzles
    • Sudoku
    • Code Cracker
    • Crosswords
    • Cryptic crossword
    • Wordsearch
  • Quizzes
    • All Quizzes
    • Morning quiz
    • Afternoon quiz
    • Sports quiz

Regions

  • Northland
    • All Northland
    • Far North
    • Kaitaia
    • Kerikeri
    • Kaikohe
    • Bay of Islands
    • Whangarei
    • Dargaville
    • Kaipara
    • Mangawhai
  • Auckland
  • Waikato
    • All Waikato
    • Hamilton
    • Coromandel & Hauraki
    • Matamata & Piako
    • Cambridge
    • Te Awamutu
    • Tokoroa & South Waikato
    • Taupō & Tūrangi
  • Bay of Plenty
    • All Bay of Plenty
    • Katikati
    • Tauranga
    • Mount Maunganui
    • Pāpāmoa
    • Te Puke
    • Whakatāne
  • Rotorua
  • Hawke's Bay
    • All Hawke's Bay
    • Napier
    • Hastings
    • Havelock North
    • Central Hawke's Bay
    • Wairoa
  • Taranaki
    • All Taranaki
    • Stratford
    • New Plymouth
    • Hāwera
  • Manawatū - Whanganui
    • All Manawatū - Whanganui
    • Whanganui
    • Palmerston North
    • Manawatū
    • Tararua
    • Horowhenua
  • Wellington
    • All Wellington
    • Kapiti
    • Wairarapa
    • Upper Hutt
    • Lower Hutt
  • Nelson & Tasman
    • All Nelson & Tasman
    • Motueka
    • Nelson
    • Tasman
  • Marlborough
  • West Coast
  • Canterbury
    • All Canterbury
    • Kaikōura
    • Christchurch
    • Ashburton
    • Timaru
  • Otago
    • All Otago
    • Oamaru
    • Dunedin
    • Balclutha
    • Alexandra
    • Queenstown
    • Wanaka
  • Southland
    • All Southland
    • Invercargill
    • Gore
    • Stewart Island
  • Gisborne

Media

  • Video
    • All Video
    • NZ news video
    • Business news video
    • Politics news video
    • Sport video
    • World news video
    • Lifestyle video
    • Entertainment video
    • Travel video
    • Markets with Madison
    • Kea Kids news
  • Podcasts
    • All Podcasts
    • The Front Page
    • On the Tiles
    • Ask me Anything
    • The Little Things
    • Cooking the Books
  • Cartoons
  • Photo galleries
  • Today's Paper - E-editions
  • Photo sales
  • Classifieds

NZME Network

  • Advertise with NZME
  • OneRoof
  • Driven Car Guide
  • BusinessDesk
  • Newstalk ZB
  • What the Actual
  • Sunlive
  • ZM
  • The Hits
  • Coast
  • Radio Hauraki
  • The Alternative Commentary Collective
  • Gold
  • Flava
  • iHeart Radio
  • Hokonui
  • Radio Wanaka
  • iHeartCountry New Zealand
  • Restaurant Hub
  • NZME Events

SubscribeSign In
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.
Home / Travel

Are these the best Airbnb rentals in NZ?

NZ Herald
25 Feb, 2017 04:00 PM6 mins to read

Subscribe to listen

Access to Herald Premium articles require a Premium subscription. Subscribe now to listen.
Already a subscriber?  Sign in here

Listening to articles is free for open-access content—explore other articles or learn more about text-to-speech.
‌
Save

    Share this article

Fossil Cove Estate boasts jaw-dropping sea views. Photo / Supplied

Fossil Cove Estate boasts jaw-dropping sea views. Photo / Supplied

Airbnb lets travellers have a unique taste of NZ

You could spend your hard-earned holiday in a roadside motel, or you could stay in a tree tent suspended above the forest floor in Northland, a house truck with stunning views of Golden Bay or chopper to a snowy mountain hut in Otago.

Airbnb is an online marketplace that lets people list, discover and book accommodation around the world.

And many of the 19,000 Airbnb listings in New Zealand definitely don't lack when it comes to wacky, cool and luxurious pads up for rent.

Earthship - as seen on Grand Designs NZ

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.
The Earthship, located in the Coromandel, is built with all natural and recycled materials. Photo / Supplied
The Earthship, located in the Coromandel, is built with all natural and recycled materials. Photo / Supplied

Dubbed the 'Earthship' because it is built in and of the earth, this Airbnb is made from recycled and natural materials including more than 1000 old tyres, glass bottles and mud bricks.

Palm trees grow out of the floor and a passionfruit vine climbs the walls of the four-bedroom retreat, sunk into the hillside in Hikuai, Coromandel.

Gus and Sarah Anning's dream home, which featured on Grand Designs NZ, collects its own rainwater and generates its own electricity using solar panels.

This Airbnb property featured on Grand Designs. Photo / Supplied
This Airbnb property featured on Grand Designs. Photo / Supplied

The Earthship is the ultimate secluded spot to unwind and feel good while you're doing it, plus it is close to some of the Coromandel's best beaches.

"Everyone comes here and completely switches off. It's really quiet - there are no street lights and no cars," said Gus.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

The Earthship costs $500 per night.

Defy gravity

Nestled in the trees, this Airbnb takes accommodation to new heights. Photo / Supplied
Nestled in the trees, this Airbnb takes accommodation to new heights. Photo / Supplied

Tree Tents - nestled in trees over Northland's Pupu Rangi Nature Sanctuary - certainly aren't for the faint hearted.

Enjoy your days exploring a range of trails in the forest or help make a difference by participating in conservation activities before sleeping amongst the stars.

Tree Tents fund the conservation activities of the nature sanctuary and are easy on the environment.

"With normal tents you have to flatten the land, clear space, have gravel ... tree tents leave zero impact on the forest," said nature sanctuary director Octavian Grigoriu.

Discover more

Business

Airbnb to turn profit, expects earnings

26 Jan 10:51 PM
World

Party at Airbnb rental gatecrashed

05 Feb 09:09 PM
Opinion

Jack Tame: Airbnb worth taking a punt

25 Feb 04:00 PM

Accommodation comes at $159 per night and is only available between mid December and end of March.

Revolving Lighthouse

This Airbnb rotates 360 degrees at the flick of a switch. Photo / Supplied
This Airbnb rotates 360 degrees at the flick of a switch. Photo / Supplied

If you are the kind of person who gets bored of just one view from your bedroom, then the Lighthouse could be the thing for you.

Coming soon to Airbnb, the revolving Lighthouse allows every room to rotate where you want it, when you want it.

Overlooking Maraetai Beach in Auckland, the glass and steel three-bedroom property will have you in a whirl of excitement.

Don Dunick built the innovative house 15 years ago and said he hopes to make it available to Airbnb guests in the next year or so.

The Lighthouse will charge punters $585 per night.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

Journey to new heights

The Mountain Hut can only be accessed by helicopter. Photo / Supplied
The Mountain Hut can only be accessed by helicopter. Photo / Supplied

For those wanting privacy and access to the great Kiwi outdoors, book into Otago's Mountain Hut.

Arrive by helicopter at this cosy, handcrafted hut located on the slopes of Mt Larkins.

This Airbnb offers a hosted, overnight experience where guests can relax in front of the fire or explore the grandeur of New Zealand's back country with a spot of skiing through the snow fields in winter or mountain biking from the tops to the valley floor in summer.

"It's a very unique and different experience for people who like spending time up high," said co-owner Christine Kelly. "It gives you a moment to contemplate and not be involved in the hustle and bustle of everyday life."

Prices range according to number of guests, but start at $795 per night.

People in glass houses

This Airbnb is perfect for stargazing. Photo / Supplied
This Airbnb is perfect for stargazing. Photo / Supplied

Worried about losing your privacy in a tiny hut with a glass, floor, roof and ceiling - fear not.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

Set high above the award-winning Greystone Winery in the heart of the Waipara Valley, the PurePod is as private and isolated as they come.

The solar-powered, luxurious Airbnb offers unobstructed views of the stars above, vine-covered flats and rolling hills from the comfort of your bed.

The PurePod is total surround glass - walls, floor and roof - offering spectacular views. Photo / Supplied
The PurePod is total surround glass - walls, floor and roof - offering spectacular views. Photo / Supplied

CEO Stephanie Hassall said this is the fourth PurePod location in New Zealand, all of which tap into a growing market of city dwellers who yearn for nature.

"It's an intensely deep immersion into pure New Zealand.

"Imagine being all alone in a stunning natural location in a luxury glass cabin, after leaving your car parked safely and completing a 10 minute walk through a wonderful natural environment."

Accommodation is $490 per night.

Luxury island getaway

American pop singer Lady Gaga has stayed at this luxurious Airbnb on Waiheke. Photo / Supplied
American pop singer Lady Gaga has stayed at this luxurious Airbnb on Waiheke. Photo / Supplied

If you are looking to impress your significant other with a romantic getaway - a favourite of Lady Gaga herself - then Fossil Cove Estate on Waiheke Island is the perfect place.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

The luxurious six-bedroom home, set on 12-acres of peninsula headland, has jaw-dropping sea views, a heated infinity pool, helicopter pad, large library and a Range Rover available for bookings of more than seven nights.

What's more, Fossil Cove is serviced daily and has chefs available to cover all dining requirements.

Rents for $5000 a night.

House Truck

This Airbnb in Golden Bay is a quirky accomodation option. Photo / goldenbayhideaway.co.nz
This Airbnb in Golden Bay is a quirky accomodation option. Photo / goldenbayhideaway.co.nz

For holiday makers wanting a holiday home on wheels, the House Truck is a must visit.

The vehicle spent 10 years travelling around the country before it settled in a private bush location in Golden Bay.

All windows and doors were custom made for the fully-equipped wagon, which has been lovingly restored to provide a unique Kiwi experience for up to four guests.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.
The quirky House Truck has no Wi-Fi, but there is electricity, water and great views. Photo / goldenbayhideaway.co.nz
The quirky House Truck has no Wi-Fi, but there is electricity, water and great views. Photo / goldenbayhideaway.co.nz

Owner Lawrence McIntyre said he loves all the detail in the House Truck including the kauri backdoor and "all the wee cupboards and shelves".

"Renting it out has kept it alive."

With an outside bath, sea views and a wood fire, this quirky Airbnb is sure to make your holiday dreams come true.

Rates start at $110 per night.

Fully-staffed, luxury home

The private outdoor fireplace at this exclusive and luxury Auckland Airbnb. Photo / Supplied
The private outdoor fireplace at this exclusive and luxury Auckland Airbnb. Photo / Supplied

And if money is no object when it comes to lodgings, St Marys Residence is definitely a slice of luxury to check out.

Located in one of Auckland's most exclusive heritage suburbs, the St Marys Residence is blessed with a 360-degree view of the Waitemata Harbour and city scape.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

With a 'single party reservation' policy, guests are guaranteed to have the place to themselves for the entirety of their stay - unless of course one opts to have a private chef, stewardess and housekeeper team to make their stay effortless.

St Marys Residence enjoys spectacular views of the Waitemata Harbour. Photo / Supplied
St Marys Residence enjoys spectacular views of the Waitemata Harbour. Photo / Supplied

This Airbnb offers never-ending luxury, including a private cellar stocked with wine, spirits and craft beers, and the options of chartering a helicopter or spending a girls' day out with a personal shopper and stylist.

Charges start from $6900 per night.

Save

    Share this article

Latest from Travel

Premium
World

USA: 4000 miles, 6 small towns: a whistle-stop tour of America

12 May 02:06 AM
Travel

48 hours in Manila

11 May 08:35 PM
Travel

Why 20-somethings will love a cruise holiday

11 May 06:00 PM

40 truly remarkable years

sponsored
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

Latest from Travel

Premium
USA: 4000 miles, 6 small towns: a whistle-stop tour of America

USA: 4000 miles, 6 small towns: a whistle-stop tour of America

12 May 02:06 AM

New York Times: A rare, rolling perspective on America’s quieter corners.

48 hours in Manila

48 hours in Manila

11 May 08:35 PM
Why 20-somethings will love a cruise holiday

Why 20-somethings will love a cruise holiday

11 May 06:00 PM
Have you made one of these faux pas in Japan?

Have you made one of these faux pas in Japan?

11 May 05:00 AM
One pass, ten snowy adventures
sponsored

One pass, ten snowy adventures

NZ Herald
  • About NZ Herald
  • Meet the journalists
  • Newsletters
  • Classifieds
  • Help & support
  • Contact us
  • House rules
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of use
  • Competition terms & conditions
  • Our use of AI
Subscriber Services
  • NZ Herald e-editions
  • Daily puzzles & quizzes
  • Manage your digital subscription
  • Manage your print subscription
  • Subscribe to the NZ Herald newspaper
  • Subscribe to Herald Premium
  • Gift a subscription
  • Subscriber FAQs
  • Subscription terms & conditions
  • Promotions and subscriber benefits
NZME Network
  • The New Zealand Herald
  • The Northland Age
  • The Northern Advocate
  • Waikato Herald
  • Bay of Plenty Times
  • Rotorua Daily Post
  • Hawke's Bay Today
  • Whanganui Chronicle
  • Viva
  • NZ Listener
  • What the Actual
  • Newstalk ZB
  • BusinessDesk
  • OneRoof
  • Driven CarGuide
  • iHeart Radio
  • Restaurant Hub
NZME
  • About NZME
  • NZME careers
  • Advertise with NZME
  • Digital self-service advertising
  • Book your classified ad
  • Photo sales
  • NZME Events
  • © Copyright 2025 NZME Publishing Limited
TOP