New Zealand
July 2025, AUCKLAND — Today, Bookabach® released its 2025 list of top international holiday homes, as more Kiwis opt for the comfort and flexibility of a private stay when travelling overseas.
Selected based on popularity with Kiwi guests, Premier Host* status, glowing traveller reviews and unbeatable location and amenities, the homes range from one to eight bedrooms with nightly average rates between $250 and $2,700. From expansive villas in Bali to ocean view estates in Maui, these properties are a snapshot of the millions of listings available on Bookabach.
Haley Purdon, Bookabach Travel Expert said, “While Bookabach has been the go-to for domestic getaways, we’re seeing a growing trend in Kiwis booking private overseas stays in iconic international destinations, such as Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom.”
“Beyond just being a place to rest, more Kiwis are looking for memorable stays that bring the destination to life and become a trip highlight. In many instances, these homes offer private views, standout amenities, unique experiences, and sometimes better value than traditional accommodation.”
What Sets These Homes Apart?
- Traveller-Approved: Consistently high ratings, above 9 and rave reviews from Kiwi guests.
- Premier Host Quality: Managed by trusted hosts known for exceptional service.
- Location Wins: From beachside retreats to iconic views and city escapes, each home is perfectly placed.
- Amenities That Matter: Think private pools, saunas, expansive terraces and alfresco dining.
Facts about Kiwis and International Holiday Homes:
- Most popular destinations: Bali and Australia are no surprise, but interestingly five out of ten of the top international holiday home destinations are in Europe, reinforcing Kiwis love for cultural cities and Mediterranean coastal escapes.
- Top amenities: A hot tub is the number one amenity Kiwis are looking for in their international holiday home, followed by a pool, internet access, and a fireplace.
- Property type: Regional and coastal villas are certainly the most popular, however city centre villas and apartments are favoured overseas, placing Kiwis steps from major cultural sites.
- Types of travellers: International holiday homes are most popular with couples, followed by friends and then families.
Ways You Can Save on Your Next International Holiday Home
- Early bird and last-minute discounts: Now live on Bookabach, these filters show travellers discounted properties for bookings over 60 days in advance, or within 30 days of check-in.
- Score discounts for longer stays: Enjoy discounts for stays of 7+ nights or more by simply selecting the “Weekly discount” and “Monthly discount” filters on Bookabach.
- Search for new listings: Be one of the first three bookings to stay at select newly listed holiday homes to get a discount. Look for homes with the “New listing discount” filter to check out these deals.
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*Premier Host is a free, invite-only Bookabach program that recognises owners and managers who consistently deliver great traveller experiences.
Bookabach Top International Destinations + Holiday Homes:
- Bali, Indonesia – A sleek 8-bedroom escape in the heart of Seminyak, Villa Vienna delivers serious wow-factor with a private Jacuzzi, sauna, and cinema. Just minutes from Bali’s best beaches and nightlife, it’s an ideal base for a luxury group getaway.
- Gold Coast, Australia – Situated in the heart of the tropical Gold Coast hinterland, the Hamptons Hinterland Retreat offers skyline views of Surfers Paradise, a 16m saltwater pool, and all-white interiors. Just a short drive from the CBD and beaches, it’s the perfect blend of seclusion and access.
- Rarotonga, Cook Islands – Nestled on its namesake beach, Muri Beach Villa has all the amenities of a beachfront resort, with the bonus of total privacy. Guests can soak in the views of the lagoon in the private pool, or step directly onto the beach towards Muri’s many eateries and bars.
- Rome, Italy – Set just minutes from the Pantheon, this Roman apartment, Argentina Luxury Terrace, blends historic charm with modern indulgence. A private hot tub, stylish interiors, and a rooftop terrace are standouts, perfect for sunset aperitivos in the heart of the Eternal City.
- Maui, Hawaii – Offering all the comforts of home in a tropical paradise, Rainbow Hale Estate offers a peaceful getaway with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Featuring a pool, hot tub and gourmet kitchen, it has all the essentials for a laid-back island stay.
- Florence, Italy – Originally built in the XI century, this Montelupo Fiorentino Villa has undergone a meticulous restoration, including six bedrooms, six bathrooms and two kitchens, with stunning views of the Tuscan valleys and countryside.
- London, United Kingdom – Light filled and on the ground-floor, this Contemporary Victorian Apartment is the ideal private space to unwind after a busy day of exploring – just a stone’s throw away from some of London’s best sights including Hyde Park, Mayfair and Kensington Palace.
- Osaka, Japan – Tyler’s Vacation Villa is a modern three-bedroom Japanese maisonette-style villa blending traditional elements with a contemporary style. Just minutes away from the iconic Osaka Castle and train station, it’s the perfect place to retreat after exploring the city.
- Nice, France – It’s all about the panoramic sea views at Villa Helene. With several terraces, a large garden and private pool, this sun-kissed villa offers the ultimate retreat on the French Riviera.
- Cornwall, United Kingdom – Located in the centre of Falmouth and a minute from Castle Beach, the Spacious House blends historic charm with modern comfort for a memorable seaside getaway. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a large garden and a sauna, this coastal retreat is the ultimate setting to unwind and recharge.
