The internet-based accommodation giant moved into the activity market in November, launching Trips in 12 cities worldwide. It connects people with "hosts" offering curated experiences, everything from surfing to learning to play Japanese musical instruments.
It expanded to Sydney last week and Queenstown today, with 10 launch activities including beekeeping, a heli-run tour and coffee brewing. It aims to reach 51 destinations by the end of the year.
Joe Zadeh, vice-president of product, was in town yesterday to meet the first hosts.
"Through Airbnb, what we’ve learnt offering homes for a number of years is locals provide a really authentic travel experience," he said.
"A lot of what makes travel great is that connection, that sense of hospitality."
Mr Zadeh described Trips as "things to do for travellers and locals that are powered by the community".
While the company would work with major businesses, it wanted them to provide a "twist" on their standard activities.
"We always want there to be a face, a human behind it rather than a brand logo. We really want to highlight the people.
"It is a way for locals to make some money from their passions," he said.
They could apply to Airbnb and the company would vet the experience. It had a Queenstown-focused team based in Sydney.
Airbnb took a 20% cut of the hosts’ profits and provided $2million in liability insurance.
The $42billion Californian online marketing platform is already a controversial presence in the resort. Its accommodation app, which hosts at least 2000 local listings, is blamed for exacerbating the housing crisis.
In January, the Queenstown Lakes District Council sent letters to 800 unregistered properties identified as being offered as short-stay visitor accommodation.
Mr Zadeh said he did not work "super closely" with the regulatory side of the business.
"But anywhere we go, we’re committed to working with local government to ensure Airbnb is net positive for the city.
"We want to economically empower people. Really, our sweet spot is people renting out their primary homes."
Neither did he believe Trips would challenge booking agents or established tourism offerings.
"I don’t know if we have to be taking a share as much as increasing the pie of what can be offered.
"There’s a new type of traveller looking for a bit more authentic experience off the beaten path."
The company offered tips on places to visit, social experiences and other recommendations from locals. Licences and competencies were vetted and hosts were encouraged to abide by the laws and regulations of the town, he said.
