We can not compare the stay, because this was our first using of airbnb.
Hastings is a beautifull small city in Hawke's Bay with a nice farmers market and a good live-pub called common room.
Josephine was a great host. We felt very welcome. We had our own room and big space in the whole house. Sitting together with Josephine for dinner was also a big plus to feel home on travel. We had good conversations although our English wasn't the best ;-).
To visit something in Hawke's Bay is a little bit difficult without a car. But that will be the same to other small cities in big natur.