Let’s go

There’s no time like the present for some Airbnb action — and we’ve spotted some super stays. Because sometimes success is the destination, not the journey.

Let’s go

Blackpool House, Waiheke Island
Sleeps 2
Architecturally designed and surrounded by tall trees, this sunny one-bedroom hideaway is all of five minutes’ walk from Little Oneroa Beach and 15 from Oneroa’s eateries and stores. If you don’t enjoy unwinding in the spacious split-level living area, mezzanine library, treetop bedroom and luxurious shower with private bush outlook, you’re definitely doing it wrong.

Let’s go

Bellbird Bach, Akaroa
Sleeps 6
Nestled in a valley overlooking the Akaroa hills, this little gem had us at ‘outdoor wood-fired hot tub’, but as well as country charm, it’s got your technology needs covered with wi-fi, Netflix and a Bluetooth sound system. A passive house oriented to catch the rays, we’d stay here for the all-plywood interior, great lighting and gangplank-style entryway alone.

Let’s go

Karaka at The Apple Pickers’ Cottage, Nelson
Sleeps 4
With epic views of the tidal Waimea Inlet and soaring mountains in the distance, this renovated 1950s cottage is nice and private yet five minutes from the action in Mapua. Why you’d want to leave the property is beyond us, though, given its fully equipped kitchen, decks, hammock, books, games, barbecue, kayak, paddle board, and bath under the stars.

Let’s go

Jungalow Loft, Auckland
Sleeps 2
This one’s for the plant lovers. On the top floors of a 1920s building a stone’s throw from both the city centre and Ponsonby, you might recognise this home from its owner’s @mrcigar Instagram account. It is full of greenery, and cool vintage furniture and homeware finds. Plus, if you like pets as much as you do plants, you’ll be stoked to hang with pooches Teddy and Ninny.

Let’s go

Aotea Bach, Great Barrier Island
Sleeps 3
Designed by Herbst Architects, Aotea Bach at Medlands Beach has a beautiful olive grove out the front, complete with hammocks. The cedar-clad interior is just the right amount of rustic, sliding doors open onto decks front and back, you’re a mere 10 minutes from the airport, and your holiday snaps will be on point thanks to your hosts’ playful inclusion of a big blow-up swan.

Let’s go

The Brown House, Lake Ohau
Sleeps 9
Built by the owners using untreated Douglas fir and pine sealed with natural wax, this entire home could be all yours. Ski, fish, hike, cycle — it’s as stellar in summer as it is in winter, so get the gang together and get going. There’s a workstation if you need it, plus family-friendly facilities (from a crib to children’s dinnerware) — though the shower-with- a-view might be our favourite feature.

Let’s go

Akitō Studio, Hamilton
Sleeps 2
Stylist Erena Te Paa’s guesthouse (@akito.studio) a couple of blocks from the Waikato River is everything you’d expect: modern and minimal with a resort feel, and dotted with exceptional details, including custom creations like the sofa, bed and outdoor bath. Use it as a base to visit some of her favourite local spots: Hamilton Gardens, Tamahere Market, Lovegrove Lane and the Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway.