Labelled the ‘Airbnb’ of motorhomes, Mighway is operated by Tourism Holdings Limited (thl) and since its launch in November 2015, the service has attracted more than 300 Kiwi motorhome owners and is currently signing up another 15 per week.
Latest data from Statistics New Zealand shows international arrivals were up 11 per cent in the year to September 2016, and Mighway Chief Operating Officer, Dave Simmons says this growth presents a major opportunity for motorhome owners.
"Buying a motorhome is a major investment that can provide it’s owners with uncountable amazing experiences," Mr Simmons says. "But, similarly to the family bach, there are times when it may not be in use."
"Where previously these motorhomes sat around gathering dust between holidays, Mighway allows owners to capitalise on the booming tourism market, provide real value for renters and earn some extra income in a safe and supported way."
"The average Mighway booking comes in at $2,800, with an average of 12 days spent on the road per booking. That’s a huge opportunity for motorhome owners in New Zealand and it’s something we’re now looking to replicate in overseas markets like the US."
While demand is high in the main centres of Auckland and Christchurch, Mighway is also experiencing strong demand for pick-ups in areas like Nelson, New Plymouth and Greymouth and Simmons says bookings are coming in fast for summer.
As many of Mighway’s owners prefer to travel in the quieter off-peak times, Mighway is able to offer great availability and lower minimum rental periods over the summer months when commercial rental operators are often fully booked.
Another major trend has been the rise of the "superhost". Owner Paul Holdem is an example of this. Having listed his motorhome "Erl" with Mighway in March, he says engaging with guests has been a really positive experience.
"We love to go the extra mile and make sure our guests are well taken care of. We’ve done airport pick-up/drop-offs and even taken our guests to do their grocery shop before embarking on the road," he says.
This sense of community is something Mighway Head of Brand and Marketing, Jason Nockels says the brand strongly encourages.
"It’s that quintessentially Kiwi approach to hospitality," he says. "It’s not unusual for our owners to sit down and have a cup of tea or coffee with their guests and share their favourite bits of Aotearoa before they hit the road to create even more memorable adventures."
