Sunday 1 June 2012 was a significant date for the Sunshine Coast as NZ 769 touched down after its inaugural flight from Auckland.
Passengers in the departure lounge at Auckland were treated to drinks, nibbles, entertainment and instant souvenir photos before they boarded the aircraft.
After a four hour flight the plane landed at the Sunshine Coast where passengers received a warm welcome from Terri, Bindy and Robert Irwin from Australia Zoo, entertainers, lifeguards and dignitaries. A goodies bag and souvenir tee shirt was handed out to passengers after clearing Customs.
The Sunshine Coast has a variety of accommodation on offer. Our pre-booked accommodation was a 2 bed roomed apartment at Peninsular Beachfront Resort, Mooloolaba. It took 15 minutes to drive from the airport in our Budget rental car to Mooloolaba. Undercover complimentary car parking was available for the duration of our stay.
Our apartment on the 5th floor overlooked the ocean. A variety of restaurants and shops were adjacent to our accommodation.
Things to see and do on the Sunshine Coast include: – Underwater World, whale watching, marinas, markets at Caloundra and Eumundi, driving to Noosa Heads and a visit to Australia Zoo.
Our flight back to Auckland took three hours.
Air New Zealand code share with Virgin Australia. Check www.airnewzealand.co.nz or www.virginaustralia.com for flight availability and cost or see your travel agent for package deals
This is a trial service with flights operating on Sundays and Tuesdays between July and September.
Tip
Day temperatures are warm but evenings can be cold
Peninsular Beachfront Resort www.peninsular.com.au
Photos: Peninsular Beachfront Resort
Views from our balcony apartment
Shopping Arcade at Mooloolaba