Mediaboss Marketing

Smart holidaymakers are swapping houses, saving accommodation costs during trips overseas and within New Zealand.

One online exchange describes it as "the best-kept secret of these tough economic times".

In New Zealand, HomeLink's membership has grown from 80 to more than 400 over 13 years. They are part of an international membership of 14,000 offering homes all over the world.

Nelson has 27 active members, who have made repeated home exchange trips overseas, and in return Nelson is a popular destination among foreign visitors.

HomeLink NZ director John Martin said the scheme brought between 1000 to 1200 people to New Zealand, and they often stayed for more than a month.

He countered criticism that they were taking business away from commercial accommodation providers. "I suppose we are competition to some extent, but I don't think these people would come here if not offered a home.

"These people travel up and down the country. We believe we help New Zealand tourism by supporting other tourist operators."

The home swap idea is also catching on within New Zealand.

HomeLink Local was set up 18 months ago for home swaps within New Zealand and Australia, with a $130 fee, $100 cheaper than the international fee.

Martin said it was doing well and growing, attracting people who no longer wanted to travel long-distance to Europe or the United States, as well as those who were tentative about the scheme and were trying it out.

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Sharing spirit makes for a great holiday