Waikawa Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Marlborough, New Zealand

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Waikawa in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waikawa, Marlborough, New Zealand to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Waikawa, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 61 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Waikawa, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Waikawa Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Waikawa Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$136
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Waikawa.
Occupancy Rate(?)
42.3%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$16,528
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Waikawa. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-7.0%
Slight decrease (-7.0%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Waikawa.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
September
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Waikawa.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
61
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Waikawa (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Waikawa is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Waikawa is typically January, while September often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Waikawa across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,630+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,451 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,510 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $887, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waikawa

Waikawa Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waikawa STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Januarysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while August experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Waikawa:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 80%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 67% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 45%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 24% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waikawa

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Waikawa (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waikawa involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waikawa typically peaks in January and dips lowest during September. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $267+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $168 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $108 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $79 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waikawa

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waikawa (2025)

Peak Season (January, April, February)
  • Revenue averages $2,411 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 58.2%
  • Daily rates average $144
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,877 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 43.5%
  • Daily rates hold near $139
Low Season (August, September, October)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,301 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 36.5%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $133

Seasonality Insights for Waikawa

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Waikawa shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Waikawa's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,659, occupancy reaching a high of 64.4%, and ADRs peaking at $150.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,200, occupancy could drop to 33.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $132.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Waikawa.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Waikawa seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waikawa (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waikawa? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Waikawa Bay
Picturesque bay area known for its beautiful beaches and boating activities. A prime destination for families and water sports enthusiasts looking to unwind in a serene environment.
Waikawa Marina, Waikawa Bay Beach, Cullen Point, Queen Charlotte Track, Scenic walks and bike trails
Picton
Gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and a bustling tourist town. Ideal for those wanting to explore nature and enjoy local wineries. Rich in history and culture, attracts a diverse range of visitors.
Islander Hotel, Picton Ferry Terminal, Marlborough Sounds, Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, Queen Charlotte Track
Marlborough Sounds
Stunning waterfront area known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Particularly popular with eco-tourists and those seeking adventure in a natural setting.
Marlborough Sounds Walkway, Kayaking and boating, Fishing spots, Wildlife watching, Hiking trails
Anakiwa
Quaint village located at the start of the Queen Charlotte Track. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Marlborough region.
Queen Charlotte Track, Anakiwa Beach, Scenic picnic spots, Tramping and hiking areas
Havelock
Known as the green shell mussel capital of the world, Havelock is a charming town that draws visitors interested in marine explorations and the stunning landscape of the Sounds.
Havelock Marina, Mussel Pot restaurant, Pelorus Sound, Scenic boat trips
Renwick
Heart of the Marlborough wine region, popular for those looking to experience world-class wineries and vineyards. Attracts wine lovers and culinary tourists.
Vineyards and wineries, Wine tours, Local eateries, Rural scenery
Blenheim
The largest town in the Marlborough region, known for its stunning landscapes and wineries. A great central hub for exploring the surrounding areas and a popular spot for visitors year-round.
Marlborough Museum, Blenheim's wine trails, Pollard Park, Local farmers' market
Ohingaroa
A hidden gem in the Sounds, perfect for those looking for a quiet retreat in nature. Attracts visitors seeking peace and stunning scenery away from tourist crowds.
Scenic lookouts, Tranquil beaches, Nature walks, Kayaking spots

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Waikawa (2025)

While Waikawa, Marlborough, New Zealand currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Waikawa to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waikawa (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Waikawabased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Beachy Blue - Sea Views.

Beachy Blue - Sea Views.

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$71,795
Revenue
69.6%
Occupancy
$261.47
Daily Rate
Idyllic Tui

Idyllic Tui

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$51,396
Revenue
44.0%
Occupancy
$265.67
Daily Rate
Enjoy the view

Enjoy the view

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$41,081
Revenue
57.7%
Occupancy
$178.78
Daily Rate
Tidewatchers Cottage

Tidewatchers Cottage

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$40,367
Revenue
57.3%
Occupancy
$211.44
Daily Rate
Slice of paradise in Waikawa

Slice of paradise in Waikawa

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$35,356
Revenue
54.1%
Occupancy
$149.08
Daily Rate
Crew's Quarters - Relax just 3 minutes from marina

Crew's Quarters - Relax just 3 minutes from marina

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$34,440
Revenue
54.1%
Occupancy
$148.47
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Waikawa (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waikawa based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Yvonne2$88,2121205.00/5.0
David3$57,7613674.95/5.0
Host #913605621$51,39635.00/5.0
Nigel1$41,0811394.96/5.0
Linda1$40,367794.94/5.0
Juliet2$35,8983064.74/5.0
Louise1$35,356225.00/5.0
Lou1$34,440295.00/5.0
Host #3118469881$31,713234.57/5.0
Colleen1$28,8353484.91/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Waikawa.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Waikawa STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Waikawa. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Waikawa Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Waikawa

  • The Waikawa Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 86.9% of the 61 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Waikawa, House properties are the most common (57.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 57.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 13.1% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like outdoor/unique (combined 3.3%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Waikawa Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Waikawa

  • The dominant room capacity in Waikawa is 1 bedroom listings, making up 26.2% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 49.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Waikawa, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 44.3% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waikawa.

Waikawa Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Waikawa

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Waikawa vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (24.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Waikawa STR market, accounting for 42.6% of listings.
  • 37.7% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waikawa.
  • On average, properties in Waikawa are equipped to host 4.3 guests.

Waikawa Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Waikawa

  • The most common availability pattern in Waikawa falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 34.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 63.9% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Waikawa (31.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 36.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Waikawa Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (55.2%)

1 Night

32 listings

55.2% of total

2 Nights (25.9%)

2 Nights

15 listings

25.9% of total

3 Nights (3.4%)

3 Nights

2 listings

3.4% of total

4-6 Nights (3.4%)

4-6 Nights

2 listings

3.4% of total

7-29 Nights (1.7%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

1.7% of total

30+ Nights (10.3%)

30+ Nights

6 listings

10.3% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waikawa is 1 Night, adopted by 55.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (81.1%) of the Waikawa Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (10.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Waikawa, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 55.2% of Waikawa hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 10.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waikawa.

Waikawa Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (33.9%)

Flexible

19 listings

33.9% of total

Moderate (19.6%)

Moderate

11 listings

19.6% of total

Firm (25%)

Firm

14 listings

25% of total

Strict (21.4%)

Strict

12 listings

21.4% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Waikawa

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waikawa is Flexible, used by 33.9% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (53.5%) and stricter (46.4%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 33.9% market standard in Waikawa.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waikawa.

Waikawa STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Waikawa

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waikawa is 61 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during December (average 104 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in August (average 29 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Winter (89 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (36 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (61 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waikawa.
  • For December stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 104 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 89 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waikawa averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waikawa (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Waikawa

  • Essential amenities in Waikawa that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Hot water, Free parking on premises, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Dishes and silverware, Essentials, Refrigerator are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Waikawa: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Hot water, Free parking on premises, Heating.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Hot water, Free parking on premises, Heating.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Dishes and silverware or Essentials to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Waikawa to stay competitive.

Waikawa Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Waikawa

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waikawa consists of a mix of domestic (55%) and international guests, often arriving from nearby Christchurch, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or German.
  • Domestic travelers account for 54.7% of guests.
  • Key international markets include New Zealand (54.7%) and United States (10%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (63%) followed by German (11.1%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Balance marketing efforts between domestic and international channels based on the guest mix.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Waikawa Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Kaikōura267$2,058$182.7042%
Martinborough Community224$2,056$192.3138%
Renwick25$1,890$183.3049%
Picton104$1,857$170.0046%
Mārahau46$1,770$185.8143%
Paekākāriki14$1,686$123.1245%
Kaiteriteri91$1,669$277.2636%
Waikanae54$1,598$132.4244%
Māpua56$1,595$184.8340%
Blenheim140$1,579$132.3247%

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