The merging of the Novotel and Mercure at Darwin Airport to form Australia’s first airport resort was announced in late 2023, with the support of a $30 million investment from the hotels’ owner, Airport Development Group (ADG), which also owns Darwin Airport.
Now a third hotel, the ibis Darwin Airport, is part of the resorts complex and ADG has spent a further $11 million to build eight new Rapid Creek Villas – three two-bedroom villas and five one-bedroom villas, all overlooking a nature reserve – as well as refurbishing and upgrading existing rooms to create five executive suites.
The latest investment has also brought about the opening of a new poolside restaurant, Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen, a Californian boho style F&B offering. The restaurant will provide new on-the-job experience for graduates of the Indigenous Training Academy, also an ADG initiative.
And development at the airport accommodation complex shows no sign of stopping.
“We have enjoyed one of the strongest peak seasons in many years, and with further expansion of direct air services to Darwin Airport, ADG believes there is significant potential to enhance both our accommodation and hospitality offerings,” said Darwin Airport Resorts general manager, Raymond Bragg.
“The creation of an airport ‘resort’ has not only captured the imagination of visitors, but also locals who are utilising the restaurants and leisure facilities because of the resort-style ambience and convenience of our location.
“The new accommodation launched is part of a more extensive refurbishment project that will see all existing rooms refreshed and upgraded, along with new facilities for the conference and events market, which has grown strongly in the past year.
“Our new restaurant will launch this week, and we are very excited about the product.
“With an outstanding chef, an adventurous menu and warm tropical ambience, we will be able to offer something fresh and vibrant that both reflects Darwin’s lifestyle and differentiates ourselves from other restaurants.
“It will be an exciting addition to Darwin’s dining scene.”
