Waiheke Island Airbnb Market Analysis 2026: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Auckland, New Zealand

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2026-02-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Waiheke Island in 2026? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waiheke Island, Auckland, New Zealand to uncover income potential. This 2026 STR market report for Waiheke Island, based on AirROI data from February 2025 to January 2026, reveals key trends in the niche market of 37 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Waiheke Island, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Waiheke Island 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 Waiheke Island Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$276
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Waiheke Island.
Occupancy Rate(?)
26.4%
Lower demand, potentially seasonal or market factors at play.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$16,528
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Waiheke Island. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
N/A
No year-over-year data available.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Waiheke Island.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Waiheke Island.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
37
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Waiheke Island (2026)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Waiheke Island 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 Waiheke Island is typically February, while May often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Waiheke Island across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,587+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,576 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,855 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,239, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2026)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waiheke Island STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Februarysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while May 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 Waiheke Island:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 50%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 39% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 29%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 20% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waiheke Island

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Waiheke Island (2026)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waiheke Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waiheke Island typically peaks in January and dips lowest during August. 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 $385+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $262 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $197 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $153 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waiheke Island

Get Live Waiheke Island Market Intelligence 👇

Discover Waiheke Island Airbnb Analytics
🏠
🏠
🏠

Explore Real-time Analytics

Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waiheke Island (2026)

Peak Season (February, January, December)
  • Revenue averages $4,132 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 58.1%
  • Daily rates average $281
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,047 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 25.3%
  • Daily rates hold near $252
Low Season (April, May, August)
  • Revenue drops to average $963 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 16.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $233

Seasonality Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Waiheke Island 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 Waiheke Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $4,843, occupancy reaching a high of 82.1%, and ADRs peaking at $311.
  • 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 $508, occupancy could drop to 8.8%, and ADRs may adjust down to $219.
  • 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 Waiheke Island.

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 Waiheke Island seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waiheke Island (2026)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waiheke Island? 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
Oneroa
Oneroa is the main village on Waiheke Island known for its beautiful beach, dining options, and local art galleries. It's a popular spot for tourists wanting to experience island life with easy access to amenities.
Oneroa Beach, Waiheke Island Museum, Stony Batter Historic Reserve, Local art galleries, Restaurants and cafes
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is known for its stunning sandy beach and tranquil atmosphere. It is ideal for families and couples looking for a peaceful retreat, making it great for Airbnb hosting.
Palm Beach, Nearby vineyards, Walking trails, Water sports, Family-friendly facilities
Onetangi
Onetangi is famous for its long beach and wineries. It offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, attracting both beachgoers and wine enthusiasts.
Onetangi Beach, Wine tours, Ziplining, Scenic walking tracks, Cafes and restaurants
Rocky Bay
Rocky Bay offers a secluded environment with stunning scenery, perfect for guests seeking privacy and nature. It's great for eco-tourism and organic experiences.
Rocky Bay beach, Nature trails, Local flora and fauna, Marine reserve, Art installations
Surfdale
Surfdale is known for its laid-back vibe and access to beaches and nature, appealing to both tourists and locals looking for a getaway.
Surfdale Beach, Local markets, Access to hiking trails, Relaxed dining options, Community events
Awaawaroa Bay
A hidden gem on Waiheke Island, Awaawaroa Bay is sought after by those looking for quietness and isolation, making it ideal for unique Airbnb experiences.
Remote beach, Hiking opportunities, Bird watching, Tranquil environment, Stargazing
Little Oneroa
Little Oneroa offers a quieter beach experience compared to Oneroa, appealing to families and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Little Oneroa Beach, Picnic areas, Family-friendly, Close to Oneroa amenities, Water activities
Belmont
Belmont provides stunning views and is located near wineries, making it a picturesque area for visitors wanting both relaxation and exploration.
Gorgeous sea views, Proximity to vineyards, Scenic walks, Nearby parks, Dining with ocean views

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Waiheke Island (2026)

While Waiheke Island, Auckland, 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 Waiheke Island to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waiheke Island (2026)

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

Atatu Clifftop - Panoramic Sea Views

Atatu Clifftop - Panoramic Sea Views

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$65,501
Revenue
28.2%
Occupancy
$765.92
Daily Rate
Te Whau Retreat - Whole Property

Te Whau Retreat - Whole Property

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$59,230
Revenue
25.6%
Occupancy
$1388.93
Daily Rate
The Sands Apartment 8 - Onetangi Beach

The Sands Apartment 8 - Onetangi Beach

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$38,002
Revenue
43.6%
Occupancy
$266.93
Daily Rate
Maris - Walk to Oneroa with Pool

Maris - Walk to Oneroa with Pool

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$34,082
Revenue
21.3%
Occupancy
$593.79
Daily Rate
Island Chalet Onetangi

Island Chalet Onetangi

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$25,001
Revenue
52.7%
Occupancy
$154.86
Daily Rate
Artist's Retreat - Sea Views Near Onetangi

Artist's Retreat - Sea Views Near Onetangi

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$21,457
Revenue
34.5%
Occupancy
$329.49
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 Waiheke Island (2026)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waiheke Island 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
Stay Waiheke10$223,462494.80/5.0
Be My Guest Waiheke7$144,412245.00/5.0
Chillux Waiheke8$89,529374.51/5.0
Nicky1$25,001574.95/5.0
Waiheke Unlimited2$24,512114.80/5.0
Michael1$15,870104.90/5.0
Cathryn1$15,689264.88/5.0
Richard Potter/Sharonagh Tengb1$13,8991Not Rated
Abbie1$13,38845.00/5.0
Amer1$13,31094.00/5.0

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 Waiheke Island.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Waiheke Island STR Market Data (2026)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

Waiheke Island Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2026): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The Waiheke Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 37 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Waiheke Island, House properties are the most common (78.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 78.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like outdoor/unique, hotel/boutique (combined 5.4%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Waiheke Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The dominant room capacity in Waiheke Island is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 48.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 72.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Waiheke Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 56.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waiheke Island.

Waiheke Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Waiheke Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (40.5%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 4 guests dominate the Waiheke Island STR market, accounting for 62.1% of listings.
  • 54.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waiheke Island.
  • On average, properties in Waiheke Island are equipped to host 5.1 guests.

Waiheke Island Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The most common availability pattern in Waiheke Island falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 86.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 100.0% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Waiheke Island (70.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.

Waiheke Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (2.7%)

1 Night

1 listings

2.7% of total

2 Nights (21.6%)

2 Nights

8 listings

21.6% of total

30+ Nights (75.7%)

30+ Nights

28 listings

75.7% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waiheke Island is 30+ Nights, adopted by 75.7% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (75.7%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Waiheke Island, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 75.7% of Waiheke Island hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 2.7% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 75.7% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waiheke Island.

Waiheke Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Super Strict 30 Days (24.3%)

Super Strict 30 Days

9 listings

24.3% of total

Limited

1 listings

2.7% of total

Flexible

1 listings

2.7% of total

Moderate (5.4%)

Moderate

2 listings

5.4% of total

Firm (24.3%)

Firm

9 listings

24.3% of total

Strict (40.5%)

Strict

15 listings

40.5% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waiheke Island is Strict, used by 40.5% of listings.
  • A majority (64.8%) of hosts in Waiheke Island utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 40.5% market standard in Waiheke Island.
  • With 40.5% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Waiheke Island, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waiheke Island.

Waiheke Island STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2026)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Waiheke Island

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waiheke Island is 45 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during January (average 68 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in April (average 1 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Fall (49 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (3 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (45 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waiheke Island.
  • For January stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 68 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During April, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (1 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 49 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waiheke Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waiheke Island (2026)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Waiheke Island

  • Essential amenities in Waiheke Island that guests expect include: Wifi, Free parking on premises, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Waiheke Island: Wifi, Free parking on premises, TV.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises, TV.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Kitchen 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 Waiheke Island to stay competitive.

Waiheke Island Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)

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 Waiheke Island

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waiheke Island consists of primarily domestic travelers (68%), often arriving from nearby Auckland, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Italian.
  • Domestic travelers account for 68.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include New Zealand (68.2%) and Australia (14%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (76.6%) followed by Italian (4.3%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Auckland and Wellington.
  • 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 Waiheke Island 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
Hot Water Beach27$2,949$257.5550%
Whananaki14$2,368$364.3836%
Waiheke580$2,274$338.4732%
Hahei104$2,241$260.2539%
Opito Bay16$1,911$294.4729%
Karapiro40$1,865$206.2237%
Waitematā1,525$1,702$146.6150%
Rukuhia10$1,675$216.3133%
Mount Maunganui41$1,669$194.0540%
Tamahere76$1,665$198.7739%

Access Real-Time Airbnb API

This report is powered by our industry-leading Airbnb Data API, providing direct access to live short-term rental data from global markets like Waiheke Island. Use this data to build powerful analytics tools, discover investment opportunities, and inform your vacation rental strategy.

Get API Access