Tuesday, January 24, 2012 11:30 AM

Whangamata has retained its crown as the top destination for Kiwis over the holiday season for the fourth summer in a row, according to figures released today by holiday home booking website Bookabach.

Lake Wanaka leapt seven places from the previous year’s list to come a surprise second, while Raglan was revealed as a hot new destination this summer, climbing five spots to claim third place.

Bookabach CEO Peter Miles says the fact that the total number of booked nights for the top ten destinations was up 25 percent, was a good indicator that bach holidays are more popular than ever for Kiwis looking for the perfect summer getaway.

“Bay of Plenty beaches remain popular despite the Rena grounding, with an overall increase in bookings compared to last year.

“Wanaka’s high ranking also shows that Kiwis are no longer limiting their choices to the beach over summer. In fact, domestic tourism has really been booming in the Queenstown Lakes District, and we’re certainly seeing that reflected in our bookings.

“Staying at a bach remains an economical holiday option, with rentals in areas like Raglan providing great value at an average of $184 per night. And unlike camping, you’re not exposed to the elements – this year I’m sure there were plenty of campers who wished they had a solid roof over their heads!” says Miles.

Meanwhile, Queenstown and Oneroa on Waiheke Island continued to command the highest prices per night, with an average of $428 and $458 respectively. “The popularity of Queenstown and Waiheke just goes to show that, despite the tough economic conditions, people aren’t afraid to splash out on more expensive rentals when they really want to treat themselves and get away from it all,” adds Miles.

He noted that there were minimal cancellations for bach bookings over the December-January period, despite bad weather which battered parts of the country.

The rankings are based on the total number of nights booked via Bookabach.co.nz between 1 December 2011 and 11 January 2012.

Bookabach.co.nz’s top ten summer destinations:
1. Whangamata
2. Lake Wanaka
3. Raglan
4. Whitianga
5. Waihi Beach
6. Taupo Central
7. Mangawhai
8. Queenstown
9. Mt Maunganui
10. Oneroa, Waiheke