Looking for baches for sale in NZ? Check out our bach buying guide

Before you start searching for a bach, it’s wise to tackle the boring stuff first — like talking to your lender. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• A 20% deposit if you don’t plan to rent out your bach.
• A 40% deposit if you want to use it as short-term accommodation.
• For new builds, only a 20% deposit is needed, even if you plan to rent it out.

Also, make sure you have enough disposable income to cover the mortgage and any other debts. Lenders might not consider rental income when assessing your financial situation.

Pro tip: If your deposit feels out of reach, there are other options. If you have more than 20% equity in your home, you could use that as your deposit. Or, consider non-bank lenders who may have more flexible requirements. Learn more about NZ deposit requirements.

So, you’re on the hunt for your very own bach — exciting times! But before you dive headfirst into listings, ask yourself a few simple questions that can help narrow down the right spot for you:

• What’s your budget? Your bach dreams shouldn’t break the bank. Knowing what you can comfortably afford will save you from some serious heartache later on.
• How far are you willing to travel? Are you a fan of quick weekend getaways, or are you cool with a long road trip to reach your little slice of paradise?
• What’s your ideal holiday vibe? Do you see yourself lounging on the beach, hitting the slopes, or maybe kayaking on a tranquil lake?
• Beach, mountain, lake, or bush? If you love the sound of waves, there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from. But if you’re all about hiking and nature, New Zealand has plenty of world-class spots to set up base.

Get inspired. Explore New Zealand's best baches.

Here are some of Kiwis' favourite getaway spots that might just be your dream location:

1. Coromandel Peninsula: With its stunning beaches and dense forests, Coromandel is the go-to for those who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll find some of the best baches here, just waiting for you to make them your own.

Explore NZ's Best Baches.

2. Lake Rotoiti: If peace and quiet by a beautiful lake sound like your thing, then Lake Rotoiti is a hidden gem. Perfect for fishing, swimming, and enjoying nature.

Need some design ideas? Check out this Design-Savvy Bach in Lake Rotoiti.

3. Waihi Beach: Waihi Beach is all about sun, sand, and surf. It’s perfect for family holidays or anyone who wants to be close to the action.

Take a look at this Unique Bach in Bowentown, Waihi to see what’s on offer.

4. Wanaka: Surrounded by mountains and lakes, Wanaka is an outdoor lover's paradise. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or just soaking up the views, it’s hard to beat.

Plus, if you’re into sustainable living, check out Sustainable Abodes: Four Inspirational New Zealand Eco Home Builds.

5. Waiheke Island: Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke is the place for beach lovers and wine enthusiasts. Picture your bach tucked away in this beautiful, easy-going spot. Perfect for weekend escapes or long summers.

6. Mt. Ruapehu: For those who love snow or want to get their hiking boots on, Mt. Ruapehu has it all. It’s a year-round playground, so your bach will never be sitting idle.

7. Bay of Islands: Rich in history and surrounded by gorgeous beaches, the Bay of Islands is the ultimate bach spot.

If your bach budget is limited there are plenty of low-cost alternatives to popular but expensive holiday hotspots like the Bay of Islands or Queenstown. Look to towns near these areas or a few hours away.

For example, instead of the Bay of Islands you could search for cheap baches for sale in the far north in locations like the Karikari Peninsula, Taipa and Coopers Beach. The drive from Auckland may be longer but properties are much cheaper. Similarly, Lake Maraetai in he central North Island is a cheaper alternative to Lake Taupo.

In the South Island beachfront property on the West Coast is generally affordable, whereas lakes nearby Wānaka and Queenstown such as Te Anau are just as scenic, without the outrageous prices.

Owning a bach in Aotearoa isn’t cheap – between rates, repairs, maintenance, insurance, and the mortgage, the costs can add up fast. But there’s a way to help cover these expenses: turning your bach into a short-term rental.

If you manage it right, you could cover your bach’s costs, or even make a profit. But before you dive in, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Presentation is key
To attract bookings, your bach needs to stand out. This means keeping it clean, stylish and well-maintained. You might even want to invest in professional photos to make it look as inviting as possible.

Managing the property
You’ve got two options: either manage the property yourself or hire a short-term rental agency to take care of everything for you. Keep in mind, that agencies typically charge anywhere from 8-15% of your rental income. It’s all about deciding what works best for you.

Booking fees
Platforms like Airbnb also take their cut – usually around 3% of the booking total. So, while short-term renting can help with costs, you’ll need to factor these fees into your pricing.

Seasonality
Your income could be seasonal depending on where your bach is located. In places like the Far North, summer might be the peak time for bookings. Meanwhile, mountain towns may only be in demand during the ski season. If you’re thinking of renting out your bach, make sure you’re aware of the seasonal trends in your area.

Want to learn more about how a short-term rental can be a game-changer for bach owners? Check out our article on the benefits of a short-term rental. .

When you own a bach and rent it out short-term, insurance is a must. Be upfront with your insurance company about how you’re using your property. Most policies cover accidental guest damage (though there may be an extra excess), but intentional damage usually isn’t covered.

If you're renting it out occasionally, a regular residential policy might work. But if you're renting most of the time, you'll likely need a commercial policy, which could cost more. The good news? Some commercial policies include coverage for lost income if your property is out of action.

Always check your policy to make sure it covers guests and business use before you sign.

Find out if you need house insurance here.

When it comes to owning a holiday home, taxes can get a little tricky, so it’s worth chatting with an accountant before you dive into the search for your perfect bach. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• You can claim tax deductions for genuine expenses related to the property, such as mortgage interest, rates, insurance, and Airbnb management fees.
• If you’re using the bach for both personal and rental purposes, the Mixed Use Asset (MUA) rules apply. This means you’ll need to figure out the split between private vs. commercial use and only deduct expenses for the rental portion. If you're unsure, an accountant can help.
• If your rental income exceeds $60,000, you'll need to register for GST.

Tax can be overwhelming, especially if you're scrambling to file at the last minute. Avoid the stress and potential penalties by getting an experienced tax accountant on board early in your bach-buying journey.

What expenses can you claim on a rental property?