New Zealand travellers
It has never been easier to reach the Gold Coast from New Zealand. The Gold Coast, centred between two international airports, is serviced by numerous trains, buses, taxis, ferries and limousines, with tours and transfers available to all major regional destinations.
The Gold Coast airport, situated in the very heart of Australia’s number one holiday destination, is located on the Gold Coast Highway at Bilinga, only 25 minutes from Surfers Paradise, and is serviced by Air New Zealand, Air-Asia, Japan Airlines, Jetstar, Qantas, Tiger Airways and Virgin Blue. The Brisbane Airport, an hour’s drive via the Pacific Motorway, connects with over 26 destinations worldwide with more than 30 airlines including Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Thai Airways and United Airlines.
As the Gold Coast becomes a prime holiday destination for New Zealanders, the number of budget friendly flights and accommodation options makes it an easily accessible and affordable destination. Why not extend your stay and make a holiday of it?
Do a little or do a lot …
Following are suggested activities to enhance your Gold Coast experience. These activities are organised independently of the conference and bookings should be made directly through the activity provider. Information and prices are subject to change without notice.
Theme parks and activities
Dreamworld
Dreamworld features Australia’s tallest ride The Giant Drop, and the amazing Tiger Island. Visit www.dreamworld.com.au for further information.
Movieworld
This is Hollywood on the Gold Coast! Join Scooby Doo on the Spooky Coaster ride or experience the thrill of the Superman Escapes roller coaster. You can see all your favourite Warner Brothers’ characters at Movieworld too! Visit www.movieworld.com.au for further information.
Sea World
Sea World features the popular Shark Bay and Polar Bear Shores, as well as many fun-filled rides and the chance to get up close and personal with your favourite marine creatures! Visit www.seaworld.com.au for further information.
Wet ’n’ Wild
For ‘splashtacular’ fun, visit Wet ’n’ Wild, Australia’s premier water park that features a myriad of themed pools, rides and slides. Visit www.wetnwild.com.au for further information.
Currumbin Bird & Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated at Currumbin, with over 27 hectares of landscaped surrounds and bushland catering to over 1400 mammals, birds and reptiles, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique natural experience. Visit www.currumbin-sanctuary.org.au for further information.
Golf at RACV Royal Pines Resort
Enjoy a leisurely game of golf on one of the three championship golf course combinations at Royal Pines, nestled between the golden beaches of Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast Hinterland. Visit www.royalpinesresort.com.au for further information.
Sirromet Winery
Sirromet Winery is located at Mount Cotton and offers visitors the perfect opportunity to sample some of Queensland’s finest wines. Winery tours are also available. Visit www.sirromet.com.au for further information.
Shopping
For designer labels, stylish boutiques, resort and beach wear or fashion and home wares at outlet prices, you can visit one of the Gold Coast’s many shopping precincts:
Surfers Paradise
Cavill Avenue Mall
Marina Mirage, Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Broadbeach
Pacific Fair, Gold Coast Highway
Oasis Shopping Centre, Surf Parade
Broadbeach Mall, Surf Parade
Harbourtown
Cnr Gold Coast Highway & Oxley Drive, Biggera Waters
Gold Coast hinterland
Just 30 minutes’ drive to the west of the Gold Coast is the hinterland, a world of tropical rainforests, mountain villages, spectacular waterfalls and World Heritage listed national parks. Here mountains rise to 1000 metres above sea level. The Hinterland is a magical place for the visitor to be totally immersed in nature. Day tour to the cosy tea houses, beautiful art galleries or award winning wineries.