HACKETT’S PAD YOURS ON AIRBNB
HOLIDAYING in Hackett style on Hedges. Does it get any better than that? Former Olympic 1500m champ Grant Hackett’s luxury beach house villa on Millionaire’s Row at Mermaid Beach is up for grabs for anyone using Airbnb to book their holiday accommodation. But they might not realise the sometimes controversial star swimmer is mine host, since he goes by the name of “Norm’’. The atmosphere sounds relaxed but the rules are explicit – no parties, no pets, no smoking!
AIRBNB holiday-makers are living the Olympic dream in Hedges Avenue – in swimming great Grant Hackett’s luxury beach house.
The three-bedroom villa, on the Mermaid Beach strip known as Millionaire’s Row, has made a splash with guests since the now Melbournebased father of two listed it on Airbnb in August.
Priced from $389 to $680 a night during the peak December/January holiday period, the property is fully booked for December and fast filling up for January.
While Airbnb lists “Norm” as its host, the villa is owned by Hackett’s company Hackett Group Pty Ltd, which trades as NHMH Pty Ltd.
“Ocean-side on the most exclusive beach residence on the Gold Coast, known as Millionaires Row – my amazing home has to be seen to believed,” the listing says.
“Light-filled, modern, and stylishly designed, my amazing home is beautifully appointed throughout, with freeflowing open-plan living.”
“I am really looking forward to hosting you in my beautiful home in Magic Mermaid Beach, where you will love living like a local in absolute luxury and style.”
The house has three TVs, Foxtel and Apple TV services, a large gourmet kitchen with Miele appliances, remote control blinds and four “powder rooms spread out across the four villa levels”.
The villa sleeps six adults (one king and two queensized beds) and comes with three bathrooms, an internal lift and a rooftop terrace with ocean views and a barbecue.
House rules include no smoking, no pets, no shoes on the carpet in the bedrooms, no parties or events and no gatherings after 10.30pm – except on Friday or Saturday night “once the neighbours have been notified”.
Cars must be parked offsite in nearby streets as the basement is out of bounds. Guests can only use lift buttons “marked with a tick”.
The property has received glowing reviews from guests.
“The only place I’ll ever stay when I’m in the Gold Coast next. Amazing place and amazing everything,” Tyson wrote in December.
“One of the best rental home experience we had,” Loven posted in November.
“Exceptional customer service, quick and simple check ins. The interior design is beautiful and fits the beachside vibe. Overall one of best experiences we had during our stay at Gold Coast. Thanks!”