Darwin Airport Resorts, Australia’s first airport resort, is undergoing a A$41 million (US$26 million) upgrading programme that includes new villas and executive suites, refurbishment of existing rooms, and the launch of a Californian-style poolside restaurant.
The property is owned by Airport Development Group (ADG) and managed by Accor. ADG has invested in integrating the three hotels – Novotel, Mercure and ibis – into a single resort destination. The redevelopment links the three hotels around a central area that features a 65-metre lagoon pool, a consolidated reception and lounge, and the alfresco Splash Café.
The project includes Indigenous artwork and theming, along with an Indigenous Training Academy, to reflect the property’s connection to Larrakia Country.
Eight new Rapid Creek Villas have been built, including three two-bedroom and five one-bedroom villas with private parking. The villas, measuring up to 49m², include king size beds that can be split into singles, a lounge, kitchen facilities and a covered deck with bushland views. They overlook Rapid Creek Conservation Reserve, which features Darwin’s only natural freshwater creek. A walking trail in the reserve provides information on bush tucker, medicinal plants and the cultural and environmental significance of the area.
Five new executive suites have been added to the Novotel following a full refurbishment. Each suite measures 55m² and includes a king size bed, lounge and entertaining area, double glazing, and either lagoon pool or airport views.
A new restaurant, the Poolhouse Bar and Kitchen, has also been launched. Seating 170 diners, it overlooks the lagoon pool, playground, beer gardens and murals by Larrakia artists. The menu, designed by head chef Laurence Lochouarn, features local seafood with Californian influences, with local beers, cocktails and wines also offered. Graduates and trainees from ADG’s Indigenous Training Academy will work in the restaurant.
Raymond Bragg, general manager of Darwin Airport Resorts, said: “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.”
He noted that the new accommodation is part of a wider refurbishment that will upgrade all existing rooms and add facilities for the growing conference and events market. The new restaurant, opening this week, will offer a menu designed to reflect Darwin’s lifestyle and enhance the resort’s dining options, while the overall upgrades aim to provide a high-standard experience within the airport.
Adrian Williams, chief operating officer of Accor in the Pacific region, shared: “These three resorts aren’t just places to stay; they’re launch pads for adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences. It’s about giving travellers a reason to fall in love with Darwin and explore everything the Northern Territory has to offer.
“This investment isn’t just about rooms and restaurants, it’s about creating moments that inspire journeys, spark discoveries, and help Darwin shine as a world-class destination.”
