New Zealand Airbnb 2021 Host Award winners revealed

Some of Aotearoa’s most welcoming and creative Airbnb hosts have been named as part of the platform’s first ever host awards.

The awards also recognise the best listings and experiences available across the motu.

The winners highlight some of the unique and often very Kiwi places available to book online.

Host of the Year was awarded to Christchurch local Angela Cossey, whose new townhouse in central Christchurch has attracted near perfect reviews from guests, especially for the additional extras she often throws in including treats and colouring books she leaves for families who stay at her listing.

Winning hosts were selected based on extensive Airbnb data, guest scores and reviews, with oversight from a panel of judges that included renowned interiors expert and TV host of The Block Shelley Ferguson, and expert Superhost Merrydith Callegari.

“It’s fantastic to see that multiple corners of the country are covered, with winning hosts hailing from Waiheke Island in Auckland, down to Christchurch and Queenstown, and up to regional Taranaki,” said Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s Country Manager for New Zealand and Australia.

Airbnb New Zealand Host Awards Winners 2021:

Host Of The Year

Angela Cossey, Christchurch 

Angela and her husband both have a military background and were avid users of Airbnb, staying at listings all around the world, before deciding to become hosts themselves.

The Block Shelley Ferguson told Newshub it’s important that hosts aren’t overbearing and find the right balance between being welcoming and hospitable, yet discreet.

“Communication is really key. Ensuring that you’re responsive to guests and communicate clearly about everything from the directions to help find your listing, to the best local cafes and small businesses to support in the surrounding area. The winning hosts had mastered that art of not being seen, yet being immediately on hand if needed,” Ferguson said.

“A lot of them even offered their own equipment like mountain bikes or kayaks for guests to use.

“Many of the top hosts also went out of their way to include thoughtful little touches that guests raved about. From freshly baked bread in the mornings to a vase of wildflowers picked from the property and even birthday cakes for special occasions.”

Community Contribution Award

Kaye Parker, Queenstown 

Parker is a well-known member of the community, renowned for her dedication to helping others. To support marginalised people badly impacted during the pandemic, she launched the ‘Greatest Need Fund’ and raised more than $1 million through her networks. The money was donated to a range of frontline charities, supporting hundreds of people in the Queenstown area.

Best Designed Stay

Studio Seventy Four, Wellington 

Located on a ridge with views overlooking Wellington, architect and host Cushla Thurston designed the space as a studio for her and her artist husband Richard. The studio features timber pieces handcrafted by Cushla’s father, a renowned timber miller.

The studio is divided into clear sections and is completely private, despite Cushla and Richard living in the main house on the same block. The outdoor bathtub is described as a big showpiece that allows guests to immerse themselves in nature with a luxurious twist.

Ferguson said she personally liked the restraint exercised – rather than build a huge home on the hill, the house is small but very cleverly planned with every available space maximised.

“This results in the natural landscape being the main feature, and the house almost forcing you to be at one with the surrounding land. This architectural design has been flawlessly planned by a family of creatives with a long history on the land and even includes features made from materials milled on the local farm.”

Best Unique Stay 

Away Treehouse, Waiheke Island

Hosts Wayne and Sue Gilinsky’s octagonal treehouse has been designed for guests to rejuvenate while surrounded by nature. Located at the eastern end of Waiheke island, Away Treehouse features wrap-around windows and a viewing deck high above the forest canopy that’s promised to let guests feel immersed in the lush surroundings.