Getting to Port Macquarie
You’re arriving in one of Australia’s most loved coastal towns, a place where rainforest meets the river, and headlands meet the ocean. With 18 pristine beaches, a thriving creative scene, remarkable Birpai cultural landscapes, and a bustling city centre, Port Macquarie offers a stunning backdrop for the Summit.
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If you’re flying in, Port Macquarie Airport offers domestic links to Sydney and Brisbane with 40 flights weekly, making it easy for visitors from from Australia and New Zealand, Asia, the UK, and Europe to access Port Macquarie. Flights from Sydney (just over an hour gate to gate) arrive throughout the day, starting from around 8:40am. Direct flights from Brisbane are available as well.
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Port Macquarie Airport is only 7 minutes by car from the Summit venue and accommodation.
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With the Place Leaders 2025 Awards and 2026 Urban Leaders' Summit commencing on the evening of Wednesday 25 March 2026, many of these flights will have you arriving in Port Macquarie in plenty of time to jump off your plane, check-in to your accommodation, and get onto the warm, Mediterranean-like water with average March temperatures of 25-26°C.
Optional paid tours and masterclasses offer a deeper look at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's most significant place-led initiatives before the Summit formally begins Wednesday evening.​​​​​
​Getting around Port Macquarie
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Port Macquarie Airport is located about 7 km (5-10 minute drive) from the city centre and waterfront precinct. Access is available via airport transfers, private car, car hire, taxi, or public bus.
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Taxi services like Port Taxis are stationed in front of the baggage claim area; expect fares around $15 for a 5 km trip to the city centre based on standard rates ($4.10 hiring charge plus $2.26/km). Private shuttles such as Hastings Shuttle Service (0434 116 411) and Macleay Shuttle Service (0477 281 200) offer pre-booked transfers with fares varying by provider. No exit toll applies.
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Busways route 341 (Port Macquarie Airport to Port Macquarie) runs from the stop next to the rental car park to the city centre, taking 16 minutes and costing $3-$5.
Car Rental counters are inside the terminal; vehicles are collected from the dedicated car park north of the terminal.
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Contact details and more options are available at www.portmacquarieairport.com.au/Travellers/Transport-Options​
​Departing Port Macqaurie
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The Place Leaders 2025 Awards and 2026 Urban Leaders' Summit will wrap-up on the morning of Saturday 28 March 2026 with a Wauchope Farmers’ Market tour & Local Producer Insights session. You'll have time to enjoy the tour and presentation and make your way to Port Macquarie Airport to catch any of these flights.​​
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