Almost all Kiwi travellers, 97% in fact, say they change their cooking habits when travelling, according to Booking.com’s Taste of Home Asia Pacific research. Whether that’s trying regional produce, using new appliances or recreating local flavours at home.
When asked why they’d book a holiday home specifically for food, Kiwis pointed to flexibility (53%), privacy (51%), kitchen access (50%) and the freedom to eat at any time (41%). That makes holiday homes, or you’re good old Kiwi bach, ideal for cooking nourishing meals, hosting feasts or balancing it all with sampling the local food scene.
To inspire your next trip, here are some of New Zealand’s top holiday homes and baches where comfort, connection and unforgettable stays come together.
The Booking.com Kina Cottage in Tutukākā, Northland, will host an exclusive three-night stay from 20-23 November 2025. Available to book from 12pm NZDT on 23 October 2025, this once-in-a-lifetime will see one Genius member and their guest join celebrated Kiwi chef Kia Kanuta for an ocean-to-table experience… diving for kina with local operator Dive Now before enjoying a bespoke dinner prepared with their own catch.
This one-off stay has guests immerse themselves in the world of kina (sea urchin), a delicacy central to Māori cuisine, while learning about kina barrens. All of this is available for just $20.11 NZD.
Outside of this special stay weekend, the property is also listed year-round on Booking.com as Oceanview Cottage Tutukākā. With its sweeping sea views, tranquil privacy and homely charm, it offers travellers the perfect base to experience the beauty and character of New Zealand’s Tutukākā Coast.
Quirky, cosy and filled with eclectic décor, this two-storey retreat is the grown-up version of your childhood cubbyhouse. Just eight minutes from Kaikōura township, it balances convenience with privacy, offering elevated views, rural quiet and plenty of charm. With its playful atmosphere, comfy interiors, and one-of-a-kind character, Kaikōura Cubby is the kind of stay that lingers in your memory long after you leave.
Step back in time at Mill House, a beautifully restored early-1900s villa with four bedrooms, a spacious living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Tastefully decorated with period details, luxe linens and high-quality touches, it also features a cosy fireplace and a large bathtub for winding down after a day in the country. This pet-friendly villa, complete with its own resident cat, sits on a working sheep and beef farm along the Forgotten World Highway (SH43), offering peace and plenty of rural charm.
Where the views are as good as the vintage, 305 in the Vines offers chic, airy villas surrounded by Hawke’s Bay’s finest vines. Modern, light-filled spaces flow onto decks perfect for sipping Syrah as the sun sets. Even better, you’re steps from Village Vineyards, Black Barn and Te Mata, with Craggy Range, Elephant Hill, Te Awanga and Clearview just a short drive (or enthusiastic bike ride) away. A stay here is one you’ll want to savour.
Tucked beside the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, Alpine Lodges blend comfort with character. Each lodge carries the name of a local legend, from pioneer James Mackenzie to his loyal dog Friday, bringing the region’s history to life. Inside, you’ll find fireplaces, full kitchens and modern amenities, while outside, private hot tubs and wide terraces invite you to soak up mountain and lake views. With Roundhill Ski Fields close by and couples rating the location highly, this is a South Island hideaway made for starry nights and cosy mornings.
Crystal Waters sits on the edge of downtown Queenstown, looking out over Lake Whakatipu and the Remarkables. The two-bedroom suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors, wood burners and simple, modern design that brings the landscape into focus. A calm retreat with the mountains as your backdrop.
Created as the kind of fairy-tale hideaway you dream of stumbling across on holiday, Mudbrick Cottages are all about romance and escape. Nestled among vines with sea views, each cottage blends rustic charm with thoughtful touches. Think private spa baths under the stars, breakfast delivered daily and the option to wander to Mudbrick’s celebrated restaurants. More than a stay, it’s a little piece of Waiheke magic designed for slowing down and savouring the moment.
Designed by Wellington architect James Warren and crafted by local builder Tony Wilkins, this award-winning home opens seamlessly to the surrounding native forest, making it a serene yet adventurous base in the heart of Paparoa National Park. Two mezzanine bedrooms sit high among the treetops, while sliding glass doors on three sides flood the living space with light and birdsong. Modern comforts – king beds, log burner and a sleek kitchen – balance the home’s modest footprint, but its true magic lies outside: a rustic clawfoot bath under the stars and rainforest trails at your doorstep, including the famous Truman Track.
Set on the edge of the Crown Terrace, Creagh Cottages pair mountain solitude with sweeping views over Arrowtown and Queenstown. The renovated stone barn retains its rustic character while offering modern comforts, making it a warm and inviting base after a day on the slopes or trails. Guests can savour wine grown on the property, unwind in the quiet and enjoy the company of the resident border collie, or simply retreat to the cottage’s stone walls and let the alpine landscape do the talking.
This luxury one-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat is set in a lovely location and offers a beautiful home with sensational views and a homely feel. Thoughtfully decorated and full of character, it showcases original artworks by Lou and the craftsmanship of Bruce, who built the striking stone wall at the entrance. The peaceful setting is completely private, surrounded by birdlife with the Orokonui Ecosanctuary nearby, while Port Chalmers is just 1 km away.
With more than 8.4 million reported listings in homes, apartments and other unique places to stay, Booking.com makes it easier to experience Aotearoa and the world! Book your next summer stay and see more of New Zealand.