New Zealand's most loved holiday rental site Bookabach has launched its annual search to find the country's perfect bach, releasing a shortlist of its top holiday homes as part of the 2018 Bach of the Year Awards.

Each year Bookabach asks Kiwis to vote on their favourite baches across the country as it celebrates the thousands of unique holiday rentals where travellers go to create memorable and relaxing experiences.

Last year, the top bach was the favourite of both the public and the judging panel, likely due to its stunning location right on the beach in Whangamata. As well as being perfectly suited for a fun-filled family holiday, the setting lends itself to being one of the most romantic spots, with six wedding ceremonies and two engagements taking place at the bach in the past six years.

This year, Bookabach has introduced a new award – the People's Choice Award – which will take top honours and be crowned the country's favourite bach.

“Kiwis are a huge fan of the bach way of life and we're delighted to provide access to such a treasured experience for people seeking relaxation, excitement and memories that last a lifetime,” said Bookabach General Manager Peter Miles.

“We're excited to release our shortlist of finalists for this year's awards and showcase some of the incredible and varied holiday homes listed on our site, just in time for Summer. The People's Choice category gives Kiwis the chance to select New Zealand's best bach at www.bachoftheyear.co.nz and win a $10,000 Bookabach voucher to fund their next holiday adventure.

“We have established the People's Choice Award as a way for Kiwis to pick their perfect bach. With more than 11,000 properties listed on bookabach.co.nz, we've given Kiwis a head start and narrowed down the choice to 40 of the best baches, spanning every corner of the country,” said Peter.

This year the eight categories (Design, Family-Friendly, Indulgence, Eco-Friendly, Pet Friendly, Unique, Urban and Hospitality)  will be judged by two well-known media personalities including: Goran Paladin, best known as host of DIY show Our First Home, and Laura McGoldrick, a busy TV presenter and mum.

“I'm looking forward to kick start my summer by immersing myself in the selection of incredible holiday homes up and down the country,” said Goran. “I'm really excited to discover the unique features of each properties and how these relate to what Kiwis are looking for in their next bach escape.”

Goran and Laura will bring their personal and professional knowledge and experience to the judging panel to judge the shortlisted properties, choosing a gold, silver and bronze winner in each category.

“Heading to the bach over Summer is such a Kiwi tradition, and I'm looking forward to seeking out properties that embody this and really contribute to a unique, memorable experience,” said Laura.

Visit www.bachoftheyear.co.nz to vote and enter the draw to win the $10,000 prize.  The People's Choice and Category Winners will be announced on 5 November 2018. 

ENDS

Assets available on request.

About Bookabach

Bookabach provides access to New Zealand's finest baches and holiday homes, apartments and other self-contained private accommodation. With more than 11,000 baches available to rent, Bookabach is one of New Zealand's largest communities of bach owners and renters. Established nearly 20 years ago, it is now considered New Zealand's most trusted resource for finding and securing private accommodation.  The Bookabach Bach of the Year Awards have been running for six years, and represent the best holiday rental properties across New Zealand. © 2018 HomeAway. All rights reserved. HomeAway and the HomeAway logo are trademarks of HomeAway. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.