Airbnb is offering a Dunedin resident counselling and compensation after his property was used as a brothel for two weeks.
The sole occupant of the North East Valley home, who wishes to remain anonymous, went on an overseas holiday for a month in July and August. According to NZME, the man's daughter helped him rent his property to two women through Airbnb's platform.
While the man was away, neighbours reported seeing a multitude of men coming in and out of the property. The hot water system also reportedly broke from overuse.
A plumber who fixed the hot water said it appeared the women were operating a brothel from the man's home.
Following the women's stay, the house required extensive cleaning. The owner's monthly power bill quadrupled in August, costing him more than $600.
Airbnb has reportedly agreed to pay the man $1474, including $624 for electricity, $70 for missing bath towels, $200 for a plumber, $80 for an electrician and $500 for almost a day's worth of cleaning.
The owner told NZME that a number of aggressive men have continued to return to his home, asking for the women.
Airbnb has since offered the man $1000 to cover the purchase and installation of a security system. It has also expressed willingness to reimburse the man for counselling services if needed.
A lawyer is believed to be interested in investigating the case after speaking to the property owner.