Baches of the Year 2026

Bookabach is proud to shine a spotlight on New Zealand’s most outstanding properties with the 2026 Baches of the Year. These stunning baches deliver exceptional quality, comfort, and unforgettable experiences for travellers. Each home was carefully chosen by Bookabach based on key criteria, including a stellar rating of 10, glowing guest reviews, and standout features designed for creating special moments with family and friends.

From relaxing beachfront escapes and picturesque lakeside retreats to cosy lodges in sought-after destinations, the 2026 Baches of the Year offer something for every style of getaway.

"With our experience running five-star resorts around the world, we’ve translated the best elements of luxury resort living into a private home setting with uninterrupted lake and mountain views for slower days and nights."

Aaron M.

"Minutes from the Remarkables access road and the world‑class Jack’s Point Golf Course, with walking and biking tracks just steps away, Sun Peaks Villa is a true home‑away‑from‑home all year round."

John H.

"Set on a working vineyard, guests enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush vines, and surrounding farmland in every direction. They love waking up to the spectacular sunrises, followed by bike rides through the vineyard, exploring the local region, and relaxing on the deck with family and friends."

Jane S.

FAQ

How are the 2026 Baches of the Year chosen?

Selected from over 12,000 Bookabach listings, these properties represent standout holiday rentals for travellers seeking space, privacy, and reliable hosts. Bookabach used the following criteria to determine this year’s list of Baches of the Year:

1. Loved by Guests: This badge means the property is in the top 10% of holiday rentals in its destination.
2. Exceptional Guest Ratings and Reviews: Dozens of positive reviews from former guests and 10/10 ratings.
3. Premier Host status: Bookabach hosts with a consistent track record of earning excellent reviews and providing outstanding experiences for their guests.
4. Popular Amenities ideal for group travel: Features guests value most such as pools, hot tubs, ski-in/ski-out access, outdoor living spaces, and ample space for gathering.

What is the “Loved by Guests” badge?

The “Loved by Guests” badge indicates top-rated, quality listings on Bookabach. This badge is given to listings with 9.4+ ratings for cleanliness, location, listing accuracy, and ease of check-in. Travellers can use the “Loved by Guests” filter to find these properties in their searches.

What is a Premier Host?

Premier Hosts are experienced Bookabach hosts with a strong track record of earning excellent reviews and providing outstanding experiences for guests. To earn Premier Host status on Bookabach, properties must earn a 9.2+ overall review rating, have a booking acceptance rate of 99% or higher, zero host-initiated cancellations, at least 5 bookings or 60 booked nights, and at least 5 Bookabach reviews. Travellers can use the “Premier Host” filter to find these properties in their searches.

What do the Baches of the Year have in common?

Though no two Baches of the Year are alike and each has their own unique story and attributes, quality, consistency, and reliability are what earn guests’ trust and positive feedback. Every property enables groups to spend time together without giving up comfort. The standout rentals are located in Bookabach’s most popular leisure destinations and feature ‘stay-here-all-day’ amenities like pools and large living areas. Just as important: strong guest reviews and reliable hosting continue to be a big part of what helps people book with confidence.

How do I book a top-rated holiday rental on Bookabach?

The 2026 Baches of the Year exemplify the best-of-the-best properties available to book on Bookabach. It’s incredibly easy to find other standout homes for your next group getaway with family or friends. Use the “Loved by Guests”, “Premier Host” and “Wonderful 9+” filters to narrow your search to the highest-quality, trusted stays. Then, consider the amenities most important to you and your family. Bookabach has dozens of filters where you can easily search for holiday rentals with pools, ski-in/ski-out access, or beachfront or oceanfront locations, as well as homes that are pet-friendly or great for families.

Why should I book a holiday rental with Bookabach?

Bookabach provides travellers with one of the widest selections of holiday rentals in New Zealand and around the world. With Bookabach, guests can expect quality stays, trusted reviews, transparent pricing, and booking protections. Additionally, Bookabach is the ideal accommodation choice when travelling with groups – whether you’re going on a multi-generational family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends. Bookabach holiday rentals offer the space and privacy for everyone to stay together and spend quality time. Bookabach holiday rentals also have convenient family-friendly and pet-friendly amenities you may not get during a hotel stay, like a full kitchen to cook and prepare meals or washers and dryers for doing laundry.