In the main cities there are more and more people wanting decent rental accommodation, and for various lengths of time. You only have to compare the monthly cost of a mortgage with the monthly outgoing for a rental property and you will see that at least for the time being you could be cutting your outgoings in half by renting. Another growing factor is flexiblity, why mortgage yourself to one location when you could improve your employment opportunities by being able to relocate at short notice.
We have a fully furnished property in Auckland which is furnished to a very high level, including entertainment system, best quality linens and glassware, etc, (never thought of shaving foam though!) and we have never been empty (touch wood), and have had some fabulous tenants, so such properties are out there. Have you tried searching under executive lets?
And as you have found, you do get what you pay for
