Win a cheeky escape across the ditch thanks to Gold Coast Airport.
Win a cheeky escape across the ditch thanks to Gold Coast Airport.
Picture this: you’re sipping world-class wine by a crystal-clear lake, snow-capped mountains in the distance and not a single email in sight. Just hours ago, you were at Gold Coast Airport, and now you’re in the heart of New Zealand.
Too good to be true? Think again, jet-setter. It’s time to pack your bags!
Gold Coast Airport now offers direct flights to SIX New Zealand cities, more than any other Australian airport. It’s a flex, but a very humble Kiwi one.
The latest additions are direct Jetstar flights from Gold Coast Airport to both Hamilton and Dunedin, and to celebrate these new direct flights, our local gateway to the world is launching an irresistibly cheeky competition throughout June.
NZ 6IVEAWAY is deliciously simple: spend just $6 at a participating retailer inside Gold Coast Airport, and you’ll go into the draw to win return flights for you and a friend to one of six incredible destinations across the ditch.
Yes, really. A coffee and croissant could be your boarding pass.
Here’s how it works. Once you’ve made a $6 purchase at any eligible café, store or outlet in the terminal, just scan the QR code near the checkout (they’re easy to spot), or head to the website. From there, you’ll upload a snap of your receipt, fill in your details and nominate which of New Zealand’s dream destinations you’d love to visit. That’s it! You’re in the running! If you make multiple purchases, keep those receipts, because each $6 spend equals another entry.
Fresh off a $500 million makeover, Gold Coast Airport has officially levelled up into a shopping hotspot. With 27 brand-new retail spaces, from fashion finds and foodie favourites, spending $6 will be as easy as counting sheep in NZ.
So, where could you end up if luck’s on your side?
Maybe you’ll be soaking up lake views in Queenstown, wandering through the creative capital of Wellington or spotting penguins in Dunedin.
Perhaps you’ll drift through the magical glowworm caves near Hamilton, explore the blooming gardens and laneways of Christchurch or or dive fork-first into Auckland’s harbourfront eats and city buzz.
Wherever you choose, your biggest challenge will be deciding who gets to go with you!
Beyond the fun of a giveaway, this year marks a milestone moment for Gold Coast Airport. These new direct flights to Hamilton and Dunedin are more than just extra pins on a map, they’re a sign of the growing connection between the Coast and our Kiwi cousins. With more routes, more options and more reasons to travel, it’s never been easier to skip across the ditch.
The competition runs from 3rd to 30th June, where the winners will be announced on 9th July. So, best start packing your bags right now!
Click here for all the details.
Where: Gold Coast Airport, 1 Terminal Dr, Bilinga
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY GOLD COAST AIRPORT
* Terms and conditions apply.
What is it about airports that gives us the green light to spend, spend, spend? Is it the break from daily routine, the thrill of escaping to a new destination, or the opportunity to browse an impressive retail experience while awaiting your getaway?
Whatever the intention, a last-minute spot of airport shopping is good for the soul and even better for the holiday wardrobe! In fact, if you pack strategically and leave a little extra space in your hand luggage, you can pick up those last-minute holiday-must haves, right under your nose…
The Gold Coast Airport’s newly enhanced retail precinct is your one-stop-shop to access the most desired Australian and International brands, ticking off your holiday packing list to completion.
Check out these last-minute travel goodies to add neatly to your hand luggage, fuss free:
A swimsuit is the number one must-have when packing for a tropical vacation. But it often slips the mind when headed to a cooler destination. Think indoor pools, saunas, steam rooms and spas; swimwear could very-well be the perfect (over-looked) addition to your luggage.
When selecting swimwear, stand out from the crowd and look no further than dopamine-inducing prints and colours to kick start your holiday with a bang.
Swing by Boardriders for all lifestyle, surf and apparel. It will feel like you’re taking a piece of the GC on your travels.
Our picks: Roxy Women’s Atlas One Piece Swimsuit $109.99 or Billabong Mens Good Times Lo Tide Boardshorts $79.99
Never be afraid to be too over-dressed on a trip away. For rooftop drinks, fine dining, or a night out meeting new people; step into Heinemann to browse gorgeous pieces from the country’s most renowned designers.
Stocking household names like Camilla, Nude Lucy and PE Nation,Heinemann will dress you with ease for any last-minute itinerary additions.
Add a burst of colour with Camilla’s iconically, eye-catching gowns. Or for a more neutral and classic style, a Nude Lucy set will cover endless occasions.
Our picks: Camilla Spirit of Santa Maria Tie-Front Dress $795 or Nude Lucy Cyra Shirt $160.00 Nude Lucy Cyra Pant $180
Prepare for breezy evenings, unexpected weather patterns, and that chilly in-flight air conditioner, with stylish outerwear add-ons.
A soft cardigan is the ideal in-flight choice, while a trench is the number one trans seasonal piece that covers all bases for travel.
Seed offers a stunning array of on-trend options, with buttery yellow knits, mocha-toned trenches and classic denim pieces taking the fashionable cake.
Our picks: Seed Lofty Button Knit Cardigan $169, Seed Parachute Trench Coat $259.95, Denim Contrast Collar Jacket $169.95
A true fusion of style, sun safety and looking cute in holiday selfies – perfecting holiday eyewear really does elevate every look.
For the ultimate sunglasses destination with a catalogue of high-quality fashion and performance brands, look no further than Sunglass Hut.
For the ladies, opt for an effortlessly contemporary frame that is both sophisticated and versatile; and will have you looking a million dollars. And for anyone who lives for a cool classic, you can’t go past Ray-Ban. We love tortoise shell for bringing out a sun-kissed glow and just the right amount of retro flair.
Our picks: Celine CL40235U $940.00, Ray-Ban RB3016 Clubmaster Classic $248.00
Nothing does the job better than fresh activewear to motivate you on a trip away!
In between those mouth-watering buffets and sunset sprtiz, comfy (but cute) chic athleisurewear is a must for beach strolls, hikes, yoga or just lounging in style. Bonus points, it’s stylish enough to take you straight from walk to wine.
Leggings are perfect for flights – think compression, comfort and barely any suitcase space. Throw in a spray jacket to stay dry and level up the look.
You can now find Australia’s favourite athleisure label, PE Nation at Heinemann (domestic), with options that’ll take you from airport to adventure (and maybe even to the bar).
Our picks: Social Club legging in black $109.00 or Shelter jacket in dusty pink $249.00
Whether you prefer a thrilling poolside page-turners or fashion and travel magazines to pass the time while in transit, a good paperback thrown into the hand luggage is essential.
Duck into The Book Cellar by WHSmith for a combination of a charming, boutique bookstore and an eclectic mix of travel guides and handpicked gift ideas.
Our picks: Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry or The Women by Kristin Hannah
While specific items may vary depending on the day (and how many other savvy travellers have snapped them up), you’ll always find an ever-changing array of goodies at Gold Coast Airport.
Words by Lauren Doogan
Where: Gold Coast Airport, 1 Terminal Dr, Bilinga
STORY SPONSORED BY GOLD COAST AIRPORT
Alright, fellow procrastinators and carry-on maximisers, we’ve got a holiday game-changer that’ll make you rethink your entire Christmas shopping strategy: Gold Coast Airport’s brand-new retail makeover is here, and trust us, it’s worth deliberately leaving those gift grabs until the final boarding call.
If you’ve ever wished for an excuse to blend airport hustle with retail therapy, this is it. Gone are the days when airports were merely transitory limbos full of daggy souvenirs and generic snacks.
With a $500 million transformation complete, Gold Coast Airport is now a full-fledged shopping destination. Featuring 27 new retail spots, including stylish boutiques, gourmet bites, and kid-friendly hangouts, you’ll be wishing for a flight delay just to explore every corner.
First stop: fashion central. Seed Heritage has made its grand return, and it’s a must-visit for those craving effortlessly chic styles and luxe linens. Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or heading home for the holidays, Seed’s breezy vacation fits are the perfect travel companion. And let’s be honest—nothing says “ready for takeoff” quite like a fresh outfit. Pro tip: Pick up a sneaky self-gift while you’re there. We won’t tell.
Need to level up your eyewear game? Sunglass Hut has touched down in the Domestic Terminal, and it’s brimming with iconic brands like Ray-Ban, Prada, Miu Miu, Oakley, and Versace. Whether you’re channelling pilot chic with classic aviators or going full jet-set glam with oversized frames, they’ve got the perfect pair to make you feel like a first-class flyer. Who knew airport shopping could be this stylish?
Shopping’s fun, but let’s talk fuel. The Social Espresso Kombi Van in the northern Domestic Departures Lounge is here to upgrade your pre-flight snacking game.
Forget sad, stale sandwiches—this groovy spot serves up barista-made coffee, beer on tap, and even charcuterie boards. Yes, you read that right. Charcuterie. In an airport. Who needs airline peanuts when you can snack gourmet at 30,000 feet?
Travelling with tiny humans? WHSmith’s new Kid’s Stop is your saving grace. Packed with toys, games, books, and treats, it’s basically a treasure trove for little adventurers (and a sanity-saver for parents). But that’s not all. Right next door, you’ll find the Interactive Play Area—a colourful, creative space where kids can burn off that pre-flight energy while you enjoy a well-deserved moment of zen.
Oh, and did someone mention free money? Gold Coast Airport’s Spend & Score Giveaway is the cherry on top of this retail paradise. Spend $100 at participating stores, and you’ll snag a $50 Gold Coast Airport eGift Card*. It’s like the universe is telling you to shop more.
Challenge accepted, right?
This isn’t just an airport anymore—it’s a pre-flight playground.
With so many new spots to explore, you might find yourself arriving extra early just to soak it all in. Whether you’re grabbing a last-minute gift, indulging in a gourmet snack, or letting the kids run wild, Gold Coast Airport has turned travel days into something to look forward to.
So, pack light and bring your shopping list. Be warned, you might find yourself secretly hoping for a flight delay just to shop a little longer!
*Whilst gift card stocks last. Terms and conditions apply.
Where: Gold Coast Airport, 1 Terminal Dr, Bilinga
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY GOLD COAST AIRPORT
By now you’ve surely seen the Gold Coast Airport’s glow-up *chefs kiss*. We’re especially fans of a glow-up when it brings coffee to the table – literally. Put your landing gear down because there’s a new coffee joint in town and we’re here to spill the beans.
Enter: Merlo Coffee Roasters, delivering that iconic Queensland Merlo flavour you know and love.
There are two distinct types of airport people. We all know the first – they’re at the airport three hours before their flight in case something crazy happens like, you know, every single road to get you there shuts down and you need the extra time.
We like to call these the parents of the group, either literally or figuratively. The second prefers to skate in by the skin of their teeth and we swear they always travel together.
So if you’ve bean looking for somewhere to caffeinate pre-flight, Merlo Coffee Roasters is your saviour. Settle in for a coffee or a cheeky bite to eat.
Nestled at the airport’s entrance, this chic café, operated by Airport Retail Enterprises, is a very welcome addition to the ever-expanding roster of exciting venues at the bustling travel hub that is Gold Coast Airport.
It’s also the only coffee spot in the airport where you can grab a brew and bite before you head through customs, making it the perfect pit stop for if you’ve got anyone popping in to bid you goodbye.
It’s also the place where you can get your hands on one of Social Eating House’s signature lamb empanadas or Slipper Lobster Rolls, iconic additions to the menu from one of our fave restaurateurs Matt Jefferson who has collaborated with the Merlo Gold Coast Airport crew to deliver the snack goods.
We won’t even call you shellfish for refusing to share with your travel buddies.
One of our favourite things about Merlo Gold Coast Airport is their commitment to locally sourced products, so you know you’re getting the freshest food from some of the finest growers.
These mouthwatering creations showcase the culinary artistry that sets this café apart because we know sometimes you just want something more than the classic airport toastie. And for the coffee aficionados, indulge in the signature Merlo Coffee and frappes, a perfect blend of flavour and buzz, because why else are you drinking coffee? Let’s be real.
The café’s interior, designed by AC Fitouts, encapsulates the distinctive branding of Merlo Coffee with its signature blue and black colour scheme. The ambience seamlessly blends comfort with sophistication, so you’ll want to stay all day – well that is until take off at least.
If you’re more about soaking up that fresh Bilinga air there are loads of outdoor options with space for 40 customers both inside and outside, so there’s loads of room if you’re travelling with the whole clan. Whether you’re looking to savour a leisurely meal or grab a quick takeaway, the café caters to all tastes and timelines, opening its doors every day from 5 am until the last check-in.
Merlo Coffee Roasters at Gold Coast Airport is so much more than just a café. It’s a destination for both coffee and culinary enthusiasts so you can get that restaurant quality feel before you take flight and I guess you could say we love it a latte.
Where: Inside the Gold Coast Airport, Eastern Ave, Bilinga
When: Daily from 5am until last check-in
Website: www.goldcoastairport.com.au
Instagram: @goldcoastairport
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.
