A luxury New Zealand property is the face of Airbnb's new Luxe platform, showcasing premium buildings from around the world available for peer-to-peer renting.
Wanaka's 'Te Kahu' is featured on the homepage of Airbnb Luxe. The architecturally striking property is located in the heart of New Zealand's Southern Lakes, managed by New Zealand-based luxury stays and experiences company Touch of Spice.
Jacqui Spice, who founded Touch of Spice in 2005, said that New Zealand hosts some of the most exquisite properties in the South Pacific. "We are thrilled to be a part of this new platform, showcasing New Zealand's selection of luxury residences to the world. True to Kiwi form, most of these homes aren't commercial enterprises, but are homes to real people, open to sharing their own private space with travellers."
Te Kahu's master bedroom
Te Kahu, which rents for $3900 a night and sleeps up to 6 guests, is one of more than 2000 properties worldwide selected for the Airbnb Luxe platform. Airbnb co-founder, CEO, and head of community Brian Chesky explained that unique properties like Te Kahu appeal to its travellers. "Today's luxury traveller is craving more than just high-end accommodations; they seek transformation and experiences that leave them feeling more connected to each other and to their destination."
In 2018, the number of Airbnb bookings for listings worth at least $1000 per night increased more than 60 percent. The increased interest in luxury travel on Airbnb is consistent with broader trends: the luxury travel market is currently valued at more than $200 billion and poised to grow in the years ahead.
Airbnb's description of Te Kahu reads: "Cedar woodwork meets cutting-edge design on 50 acres bordering Lake Wanaka. Walk the heated floors beneath geometric wood-clad ceilings, slide open vanishing doors to a private courtyard, and clink glasses by the alfresco fireplace as the sun dances over the edge of the lake. A telescope, 4-poster beds, and a crafty skylight up the ante."
The Lodge at The Hills
Also featuring on Airbnb Luxe is Lodge at the Hills, one of Touch of Spice's flagship properties featured in their Residence Collection. At $38,000 a night, guests are encouraged to "Land on the helipad and take the golf cart around this astonishing feat of architecture that abuts Arrowtown Golf Club and Feehly Hill Scenic Reserve. The fully-staffed compound curves around a multi-tier infinity pool, alfresco dining looks onto the tennis court and private 3-par golf hole, and wood, glass, and steel define the soaring modern interiors."
