Renting your property during the busy festive season in Queenstown can be a fantastic way to generate extra income. Here are some steps and tips to help property owners prepare their property.  

A wonderful way to make sure that you have the house prepared for renting is having a checklist of things you need to prepare as well as putting away any sentimental or valuable items that you do not want on display for guests. 

House Checklist 

When setting up bedding for seasonal rentals, it is advisable to furnish each bed with essential items: 

• mattress protector 
• duvet inner  
• pillows (2 per person) 
• pillow protectors (optional)  
• throw and coloured cushions if the room needs more vibrancy   

A well-stocked kitchen can have its advantages, by providing guests with a comprehensive array of equipment for their stay can be of great convenience to the guest. Essential considerations include:  

• utensils
• cookware
• dinnerware/glassware 
• kitchen gadgets 
• food storage 
• basic pantry items 
• cutlery 
• appliances 

Some specific examples would be coffee machines, BBQ, baking equipment, large dishes, and cheese boards.  

We always recommend having enough plates, cutlery, and glassware for the number of guests that your property can accommodate, if not double.  

Supplies

Tāhuna Hideaway can organise and supply your home with the items each guest stay requires, however we do like to offer home owners the opportunity to provide their own supplies in order to reduce expenses while you are away. These are items such as:  

• Toilet paper
• Hand wash, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, laundry liquid & dishwashing liquid (along with refills)  
• Paper towels 
• Tissues 
• Dish tablets 
• Rubbish bags  
• Coffee, sugar, tea  

If homeowners do not want to supply their own amenities, they can choose to use the Tāhuna Hideaways amenities. We can supply a quote for the larger items and order them in advance so we can store them in one of your cupboards, then the other items we will stock the house with when and if they run out.  

Maintenance 

Maintaining your property in top condition before renting it out seasonally is a wise strategy to ensure a positive experience for your guests and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance during their stay. Here are some key steps to consider: 

Landscaping and Garden Tidying 

• Regularly trim bushes, hedges, and trees to keep the garden looking neat. 
• Remove weeds, fallen leaves, and debris from the garden and pathways. 
• Ensure that the lawn is mowed, and the grass is kept at an appropriate height. 

We can provide mowing services while you are away if necessary. 

GRASS – healing any patches before you leave for holiday can make the grounds look looked after, especially if you leave for summer, and do not have irrigation you may need to organise a neighbour to turn the sprinkler on between stays to keep the grounds healthy. 

Deep clean  

If owners do not have time to give their house a deep clean before they go, then Tāhuna Hideaway can arrange for the Busy Lizzy cleaning team to do this for you. It is advisable for owners to tackle cleaning tasks gradually in the lead up to their departure. This can help in two ways: first, it lessens the workload for the professional team, and secondly, it can potentially reduce the overall cost of the deep clean. 

Window Cleaning 

Clean all windows, both inside and outside, to ensure they are spotless. 

Pay special attention to the windows with the best views as they can significantly enhance the overall impression of the property. We also have amazing contractors we can get in touch with if you would like to pay for someone to do this before you go.  

Additional dates throughout the year 

If owners are starting to see some great bookings, then they might consider opening their house more often for bookings throughout the year. This is easy enough to do if you let one of the team at Tāhuna Hideaway know so they can unblock the dates. Also, tell the team what the minimum price per night would need to be to make it worth the owners leaving the property. 

Insurance  

If you plan to rent out your property seasonally, it is crucial to notify your home insurance provider about your intentions. Many standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover short-term rentals, and failing to disclose your rental activities could lead to issues in case of damage or liability claims. Here are some important steps to consider: 

Contact Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance company or agent about your plans to rent out your property on a short-term basis. This communication should be made well in advance of your first rental. 

Property Damage Coverage: Ensure that your policy covers potential damage caused by guests. This includes damage to the structure of your property, as well as any furnishings or personal belongings you provide for guests’ use. 

Compliance with Local Laws: Comply with any local regulations or licensing requirements related to short-term rentals, as these can impact your insurance needs. 

It is essential to be transparent with your insurance company and follow their guidance to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your short-term rental property. This proactive approach can help protect your investment and provide you with peace of mind while hosting guests. 

By following these steps and being well-prepared, you can make the most of renting your property during the festive season and ensure a positive experience for both you and your guests. 

Photo credit: Simplify my home  

A trend we have noticed when chatting with prospective clients (investors and owners) is that a lot of them tend to ask similar questions in regard to our systems and how we work as a team. So, for your convenience we decided to put together a list of our FAQ’s – frequently asked questions, to help answer these!

Q: Where abouts are the homes advertised? Which websites do you use?

We have our own company website www.tahunahideaway.com where our properties have their own listings, pictures, bios etc. Think of it as a personalized portfolio for your property! We also use the platforms AirBnb, Booking.com, Homeaway and Marriot which are popular and well-renowned websites worldwide, along with other local and national sites. We also have social media accounts on all major platforms, including Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Q: How do we keep track of our bookings as owners?

We use what is called an owner portal. This is a website that allows us both to keep track of your property’s bookings at the same time. This shows our guests details, the length of their stay, pricing and much more. This also provides the owner statements and invoices so that you can keep track of your records and monitor how well the property is performing.

Q: Who cleans the properties after each stay? How often are they cleaned?

We pride ourselves on keeping our holiday homes up to a pristine standard. That means using the best of the best when it comes to our hygiene, cleaning and linen services. Professional cleaning is supplied after every guest departs. If requested by the guests, we can also provide in-stay cleaning services. That’s where our wāhine (ladies) at Busy Lizzy come in- Carpets vacuumed, bathrooms sparkling, surfaces dusted, beds made, replenishments and linen replaced. They take care of the details so that you don’t have to!

Q: What happens if our property needs maintenance during the time it is managed by Tāhuna Hideaway? What if there is damage cause by a guest or tenant?

This is again processed through our owner portal, which allows for us to communicate with our owners about the issue and you then have the chance to approve or decline this request. We will organize a quote for pricing, pictures and a description on the matter also. Prior to each stay we take a security deposit from each guest (or a bond). If there is damage caused to the property as a result of the guest or tenant this will be taken from this, or charged on top. However, it is important to note that with renting your property to the public there is always risk of general wear and tear over time.

Q: What is involved in the initial stages of listing our property? Photos, furnishing etc.

Prior to guests staying at the property we conduct an initial inspection as well as documenting and photographing your home and chattels. We also offer furnishing services so if you need your property revamped of furnished, we can take this job off your hands! We have a great eye for detail and we can cater to any and all budgets. Professional photos of each of our properties are also taken before the property is listed.

Q: How is the property monitored and by whom?

Ingoing and outgoing checks are done upon guests’ arrival and departure by our property managers, this is to make sure it remains perfect both for you and for the next guests. We also have an on-call manager available for emergency calls – we are dedicated, live locally and are on call at all times.

Q: How can we provide our guests with the best service, or something more personalized?

We take care of the little extras, providing those extra services that make your guests’ stays more enjoyable. We provide complimentary soaps and toiletries, coffee and tea. We can also cater to guests’ needs in terms of platters, birthday cakes, baby equipment and much more. It’s all part of the service they can expect from Tāhuna Hideaway holiday homes and is part of the reason guests keep coming back to our properties and recommending us to others.

Q: Are toiletries and cleaning products provided?

All of our homes use local products from Real World and With Small including soaps, shampoos, conditioner and other sanitary products like toilet paper and tissues. We like to hold our properties to a high standard this means supplying our guests with quality products. Not only are they eco-friendly, but our guests absolutely love them. You can find more information on the brands here www.realworldnz.com and www.withsmall.co.nz

Q: Can we list our property as a once off or on a flexible contract?

This is possible if you choose to go away for periods of time during the year etc. However, if your property in discussion is the one which you reside in, we must again note that there is risk of general wear and tear over time. From experience it is also more mutually beneficial for both parties (you as the owner and us the property management company) to have 6-12 months’ worth of availability noted in advance so that we can demand and execute premium prices.

Q: Are there options for me to rent my property out long term (residential) vs short term (holiday home)?

Yes, if at any stage you wish to change to long term accommodation, we can assist with this. We can also find suitable tenants for your property and manage all the accounts as normal. Head to our blog post here for more information on which option may suit you best www. tahunahideaway.com/residential-rental-vs-holiday-home-renting/ Have a question we didn’t answer? Fire away! We are always available to answer any other queries you may have in regards to renting your property out and we are here to help. If you would like to have a chat, contact our team today! Nga Mihi, Tāhuna Hideaway.

The highly anticipated Queenstown Marathon, scheduled for Saturday, November 18th, is just around the corner. This event marks an exciting and vibrant weekend, drawing participants, supporters, and spectators from various corners of New Zealand and even abroad.  

The allure of the Queenstown Marathon lies in its three distinct options: the full marathon, the half marathon, and the 10km run, each offering a unique experience that highlights the stunning natural beauty of the region. 

Runners in the full marathon, half marathon, and 10km race are treated to the breathtaking vistas of Lake Wakatipu’s crystal-clear shores, with its waters mirroring the surrounding mountain ranges. As they push their limits, participants are not only immersed in the challenge of their chosen race but also in the awe-inspiring scenery that serves as a backdrop to their journey.  

The marathon’s finish line is right in the heart of Queenstown, an energetic and picturesque destination that adds to the overall appeal of the event. With its combination of physical exertion, natural wonder, and vibrant community spirit, the Queenstown Marathon promises an unforgettable experience for all who choose to be a part of it. 

We have curated a selection of tips to guide you in the run-up to this event. 

Transport 

1. The key is to have a plan when it comes to transportation around Queenstown over the Marathon weekend as there will be traffic delays that need to be accounted for when getting to the start line and for spectators travelling to the best viewing spots. Make sure to add bus transport to your event ticket if required or organise for a supporter to drop you off at your designated start line allowing some extra time so there is no rush. For anyone not participating in the race and wanting to get to the airport or anywhere in Queenstown CBD you need to allow 30 minutes to an hour in advance due to road closures and traffic. 

Weather 

2. Making sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast for race day in the days leading up to the event will help prepare you on what to expect on the day. Ensuring you dress appropriately, choose good footwear, have sun protection, and adjust your pace to the weather are ways to make sure you are best prepared for any conditions on the day.  

Nutrition and Hydration  

3. It is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to fuel your training and recovery. Practicing your race day nutrition strategy during long training runs to avoid any surprises on race day. Begin hydrating a couple of days before the race to make sure you are hydrated and consider including sports drinks or electrolytes, especially important if the conditions are hot or humid.  Make sure that you BOOK all restaurant reservations in advance for lunch and dinner as with the increased number of people in town, it will be busy. 

Race day planning  

4. To make sure that you do not have any last-minute stresses, a few things you can do are familiarise yourself with the racecourse, logistics and start times, lay out your race gear the night before and arrive at the race venue early. For people who are not competing in the race, a day trip to Wanaka or a trip to Gibbston Valley to visit a few wineries is a wonderful way to stay out of the chaos of race day. 

Rest and Recovery  

5. The training regimen should have already transitioned into a tapering phase in the weeks leading up to the race. This is a critical period during which your body requires ample time to recuperate. Prioritizing a full night’s rest, especially in the two nights preceding the marathon, is of paramount importance to ensure that you approach the starting line in peak physical condition. A great viewing spot for spectators to watch the runners come into Queenstown is around the Queenstown Garden and from the waterfront cafes and bars. 

Ever stumbled upon the quirky term ‘shoulder season’? Turns out, it’s not just a phrase travelers throw around to get fantastic holiday deals – it’s got a fashionista twist too. Shoulder season is like the Goldilocks of climates – not too hot for singlets, but not chilly enough for your chunky winter woolies. We’re talking about that sweet spot where your shoulders get all the attention.

Now, whether you’re taking a plunge in Lake Wakatipu in the middle of summer, or you’re conquering the ski slopes in the heart of July, trust us, Queenstown is your year-round haven.

But hold on, what about those in-between months? You know, the months that don’t come with scorching heat or bone-chilling cold. Here’s the lowdown on why Queenstown remains an A-list destination even during shoulder season:

1. Wallet-Friendly Wins: Accommodation and flights tend to be kinder to your wallet during shoulder season. It’s like the universe’s way of saying, “Hey, treat yourself without maxing out your credit card.” We think that the most affordable way to travel and stay in our houses is as two couples, or a group of four. Checkout our basic cost breakdown below to compare prices for this summer and the next shoulder season:

	December 2023	May 2024
Destination	Auckland → Queenstown
Flight Price	$204 per person	$109 per person
Accommodation	1 Bedroom Studio
	$400 + cleaning fee	$175+ cleaning fee
	2 Bedrooms
	$600 + cleaning fee	$200 + cleaning fee

2. Adventures Unleashed: Just because the weather is having a ‘not too hot, not too cold’ moment doesn’t mean your inner thrill-seeker has to hibernate. Queenstown’s adventure mecca – from heart-pounding bungee jumps to soul-soothing hikes – is ready to serve no matter the season. Here are a few of our local tips to add to your Queenstown bucket list while keeping your wallet happy:

• Planit Bnb- This nifty tool hooks you up with a 10% discount on a variety of activities when you use our exclusive code QT2280. Using a travel planner can streamline the process of booking activities, making it a breeze.

• Disc Golf- It’s a fantastic shoulder season activity for guests exploring Queenstown. For just $5, you can grab a disc and embark on a leisurely journey through the Queenstown Gardens, which hugs the beautiful Lake Wakatipu. 

• Onsen Hot Pools- Recently recognized as a winner of the 2023 Spa Awards, this boutique experience tends to be more serene during the shoulder season and offers special local and seasonal rates. They even operate a complimentary shuttle from Central Queenstown.

3. Crowd Charades: Imagine this: fewer people, more space to stretch your legs. Shoulder season means you won’t need to become a pro at navigating around hordes of tourists. You can wander through the quaint streets, discover hidden gems, and savor tranquil views without constantly playing the “excuse me, pardon me” game. In June 2022, we welcomed 12,290 visitors to Queenstown, compared to a bustling 37,871 in December. That’s significantly fewer folks crowding this charming but iconic southern town.

4. Wine and Dine in Peace: Ever wanted to savor a gourmet meal without enduring endless wait times for a reservation? Shoulder season hands you that exclusive pass. Slip into Queenstown’s culinary scene with ease, relishing every delectable bite without the hustle-bustle stealing the show. Gibbston Valley offers great experiences like their winery tour, which includes a tour of the vineyards, wine making process and inside the cave with four premium tastings for only $38 per person.

5. Mother Nature’s Art Show: Queenstown’s scenery doesn’t shy away during shoulder season. The scenery retains its awe-inspiring beauty, only now with a sprinkle of autumnal hues or the promise of spring buds. It’s as if Mother Nature has arranged a unique exhibition, exclusively for your enjoyment.

So, fellow adventurers, it’s time to appreciate Queenstown’s shoulder season. It’s that time of year when the weather can’t quite settle on a single mood, but the experiences are as invigorating as a breath of fresh mountain air. 

We at Tāhuna Hideaway are here to assist you in making the most of this transitional phase and securing some amazing deals. We look forward to serving as your holiday personal assistant during this season, and all year round.

We sit down with Founder and Managing Director of Tāhuna Hideaway in a Q&A to get to know Rebecca on a more personal level.

Firstly, Kindly introduce yourself.
My name is Rebecca Freeman and I’m the founder and managing director of Tāhuna Hideaway. I have a gorgeous 3 year old fluffy dog that keeps me busier than anything and live in the sunny up and coming Hanley’s Farm.
 
Where are you from?
I am originally from the sunny Hawkes Bay but I have been in Queenstown for 7 years. My time began here when I studied and I have worked in a variety of hospitality roles before finding my passion in Property Management.
 
What is something you are proud of since starting the business?
It would have to be our rebrand at the start of 2023 as it really portrayed who we are, who I am and what we are about in the business.
 
What demographic do you think most likely stays at Tāhuna Hideaway?
Between the 35-45 age gap and a lot of couples coming with their friends.
 
What do you think are the most common misconceptions about being a business owner?
That you get a lot of time off. I think that in our industry it is 24/7 no matter what you do and whether you say your on holiday or not, you are the business owner therefore you need to be available 24/7 as your business is your baby.
 
What are you most looking forward to in business over the upcoming year?
Finding a good momentum for the team and the right balance with our properties.
 
Looking back at everything, what would be one piece of advice you wish someone had given to you when first starting as a business owner?
That there is no rule book and it is all about asking questions and finding your own answers.
 
What’s your favourite thing about hosting visitors in Queenstown?
Providing them with a kiwi experience and being able to share our stunning region with them. We are fortunate to live with this beautiful scenery and I love that our guests get to experience this when they stay.

Who are some of your role models or mentors in the business?
I always go back to my parents as they have been in business ever since I was born and I go to them a lot for advice.

Favourite spots to eat out in Queenstown?
Dinner spot would have to be Blue Kanu in Queenstown and Brunch is The Dishery in Arrowtown.

What’s your drink of choice?
Pinot Blanc from Mt Rosa, A must try for everyone.

Here’s one for our guests! We thought we would compile a bunch of our most asked questions by our guests into one easy to read blog or your convenience. If there’s anything we have left out, or any burning question you have left unanswered, we are always available to help or to have a chat!

When do I make payment for my reservation/when is it due?

The full payment for your booking is due between 14-7 days before your arrival. At the time of your booking a $10 deposit fee is required, this ensures that your card is legitimate. This small fee is taken from your total accommodation amount. Full payment is required prior to your arrival- for more information on this head to our ‘Terms & Conditions’.

*If paying via credit card there is a 2.8% surcharge fee.

Can I cancel my booking if need be?

Yes, your booking can be cancelled and refunded up until 7 days prior to your arrival. After these 7 days it is non-refundable and if you book within 7 days of your arrival the same applies.

Do you provide linen/towels?

Yes, we have cleaners who supply these for each stay. There is an adequate amount provided for each bedroom and each person, more are also supplied if the home has a hot tub. These are changed and professionally cleaned after each stay. This cost is included in the cleaning fee.

Do I need to bring food/milk/toiletries etc?

As all our homes are ‘self-service’ you will need to bring your own food including milk etc. We do supply coffee, tea, sugar and other essentials such as toilet paper to get you started. We also provide toiletries in large bottles like shampoo, conditioner, hand wash from Realworld and cleaning products.

We can however arrange any groceries you would like as well as breakfast hampers and platters etc. Head to our ‘Order Now’ page to check out our options. We also offer customisable options, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any requests!

How do I check-in to the property, is there a reception?

All of our properties are self-check-in and there is a lockbox with key (or door code) for access at each. These instructions are sent to our guests 48 hours prior to their arrival. There is no reception at any of our properties as they are all privately owned. However, for our higher end properties we do offer a ‘meet & greet’ option if you would like us to do so.

Can I check in early or check out late?

You can upon request subject to availability and for a fee of $50. This is sometimes unavailable if we have guests checking in or out the day of arrival/departure. Our cleaners need to have access to the property as soon as possible after departure if we have a back-to-back booking the same day.

It’s my partners birthday- can you supply a cake/balloons?

Absolutely! We love catering to special occasions. We can organize cakes, platters, beverages, decorations and much more. Send us through your ideas and we will bring your vision to life!

Do I need to pay a bond?

A security bond of $500 or $1000 is required as a requirement of your stay depending on which house you stay in. This is to cover any potential damages, this amount isn’t taken from your account however, it is just a freeze of funds. This is then reversed within 7 days of your departure.

Do you have any recommendations of things to do/places to eat?

We have curated a list of some of our top activities and top spots to eat on our website which we will link here for you. We also have a list of some of our top ‘Instagrammable Spots’ for those travel bunnies that want the perfect photo opportunity. There is also a 5-day-itinerary/locals guide available to be downloaded at the bottom of to ‘Explore Queenstown’ page for added inspiration.