The first website dedicated to finding holiday accommodation for people with pets has launched in New Zealand, according to its creators.
Pet Friendly Stays, by property management platform Seekom, is on a mission to ensure no family member is left behind the next time a vacation is needed.
According to the company, 64 percent of Kiwi households had pets in 2020, with that number boosted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
That's left many wondering how they can get away for a few days without having to find alternative accommodation or a babysitter for their furry friend.
Other players in the market, like Airbnb and Bookabach, do offer filtering that finds properties that allow pets to stay - but every property listed on the Pet Friendly Stays website is fine with furry guests.
Seekom general manager Nicole Irschick said Pet Friendly Stays catered for New Zealanders' love for their furry companions by making it easier to find accommodation for the whole family.
"Seekom is thrilled to launch Pet Friendly Stays so that no member of the family has to stay behind during trips away."
The new site allows Kiwis to browse pet-friendly accommodation listings by region or type, and provides more granular data, including listing aspects of individual rooms that pet owners might find relevant.
The website also lists additional information about local amenities and necessities for pets, including local dog parks, the best pet-friendly walking trails and closest vet clinics.
"New Zealand pet owners can now find accommodation that welcomes their pets and provides for all their needs, right down to the nearest patch of grass," Irschick said.
Many of the big branded hotels in New Zealand don't allow pets to stay, but do allow service animals, such as guide dogs and emotional support animals.
