GC to Queenstown that’s just a bit fancy
A PRIVATE jet service linking the tourism playgrounds of the Gold Coast and Queenstown has taken off in the wake of the pandemic, propelling demand for topshelf travel.
Operated by Gold Coast developer turned Queenstown hotelier Kevin Carlin, the Bilinga-based Private Jets Ltd wines and dines rich-listers and rock stars as it whisks them over the ditch without fear of cancellations, crowded terminals or lost baggage.
“While the borders have only recently opened here in New Zealand, we’re already getting several inquiries for our private jet service every week,” he said.
“The demand for private jets all over the world has increased since the pandemic and I do predict that demand will continue to increase, given the unreliability of some commercial airlines at the moment.”
Destination Gold Coast Head of Stakeholders and Strategy Rachel Hancock said the service’s popularity echoed a broader demand for high-value travel.
“These travellers are increasingly looking for options to spoil themselves with some luxury and post-pandemic pampering,” she said.
“Only four months ago we welcomed Langham Hotels to our city – one of the world’s most prominent luxury brands opening their third property in the Pacific region.
“This is a strong vote of confidence in the growing ability of the Gold Coast to attract those looking for luxury travel.”
While rates vary with fuel prices and group sizes, the average one-way trans-Tasman ticket with Private Jets Ltd is $5850. Mr Carlin said customers were “usually highnet-worth Australians or New Zealanders, or overseas travellers visiting Australasia” who stayed at his six-star Queensland property The Carlin.
“It’s the overall experience that makes a private jet beyond first class,” he said.
“This means travelling with a maximum of 13 passengers, a more personal service, higher quality of food and beverage and more room to relax.
“We have one jet based in the Gold Coast and two in New Zealand, however, they can arrive and depart from any airport in Australia, New Zealand or Asia.
“The service is completely bespoke and we fly according to our passengers’ preferences and schedule.
“Having the ability to adapt a flight to your own personal schedule is highly advantageous for our clients.”
Mr Carlin, who relocated from his Tallai trophy home to the top levels of his South Island showpiece, conceived the idea for Private Jets Ltd when he became tired of regular trips between the two cities.
“We manage private jets from anywhere in the world, but we do see an affinity between the luxury Gold Coast and Queenstown tourism markets,” he said.
Ms Hancock said the exchange between the tourism capitals was a two-way street.
“New Zealand and the Gold Coast have a special connection,” Ms Hancock said.
“Pre-pandemic, the Gold Coast was the No.1 holiday destination for Kiwis and we are working hard with our airline partners and travel trade to assist in the swift recovery of visitation from this important market.
“We were the first Australian region to be in market hosting a trade event in June, and our New Zealand Roadshow resulted in overwhelmingly positive feedback from over 300 travel consultants as well as a range of new Gold Coast product now being contracted with key wholesalers in market.”
It’s the overall experience that makes a private jet beyond first class KEVIN CARLIN
Private jets, Bentleys and six-star suites – step inside Queenstown’s newest luxury hotel in Saturday’s Gold Coast Bulletin.