New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty launches luxury rental homes division

Queenstown-based real estate company New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty has launched a luxury rental homes division in an expansion of the services it offers in the resort town.

The initiative, which officially launches this month (May), was initially created to offer the company’s clients properties to rent while they were in Queenstown viewing potential properties to buy.

Since the division’s ‘soft launch’ earlier this year the portfolio of properties has risen significantly and the company has secured a number of exclusive properties in some of the town’s most desirable neighbourhoods.

They also list a select number of properties, including luxury yachts, in Marlborough and Auckland.

General Manager Peter Newbold said the expansion into property rentals was a “natural progression” which perfectly complemented the company’s core business of luxury real estate sales.

“Many of our Auckland and offshore clients approach us asking us for recommendations on where to stay in Queenstown when they visit,” he said.

“Through our contacts and agents we have access to the area’s best properties including centrally-located private villas and homes, boutique lodges, rural retreats and luxury hotels, so it made sense for us to provide them with that level of service.”

“We’ve now expanded and offer luxury property rentals to anyone looking for a property to rent during their stay here.”

The division is being spearheaded by Queenstown local Sarena Harper who grew up in the region and recently returned to the resort after a period overseas.

Twenty-eight-year-old Sarena is a licensed real estate agent with extensive experience in residential and commercial sectors and property management.

Ms Harper brings to the company a wealth of knowledge in the luxury tourism sector having worked on luxury super yachts and in the hospitality industry for many years and is no stranger to the global stage.
She travelled the world from a young age as part of the New Zealand youth and the woman’s ski teams, touring Europe for five seasons and competing at an international level for ski racing.

“Over the years I’ve travelled extensively and truly appreciate the exceptional level of service our clients expect. We’re focused on matching our clients with the best luxury rental properties in Queenstown, and our standards and attention to detail are second to none,” said Ms Harper.

“I’m overwhelmed with the positive feedback we’ve already received from our clients who’ve been requesting this level of service for some time.

“The Sotheby’s International Realty brand is recognised the world over and is the epitome of luxury. This instils real confidence in our clients, from owners to guests.”

Luxury Rental Homes offers additional services for guests should they require more than just accommodation for their time in Queenstown. They work closely with selected local providers who are available to cater to any request a guest may have. 

“From private chefs and transport to making dinner reservations and activity suggestions, we ensure everything our guests desire is taken care of so they can relax and enjoy their Queenstown experience,” said Ms Harper.

The company will initially focus on the Queenstown market and aim to expand in to other centres over time.