I purchased 3 X bottles of rum. The cashier asked about my final destination. Did not ask about transiting. Because the purchase was not in a sealed bag, I had to surrender these at transit security in Auckland. And I have been unable to contact First to demand compensation. They don't care about their customers, just making a sale.

At the display at 15% discount was offered on Talisker Whisky, however at the checkout I was charged full price... it was only once I challenged the sales assittant, who then had to call her supervisor that the advertised discount was finally honoured. Clearly the system was not set up to offer the discount.

I have learned that ordering online before arrival can save a lot of time but is not a complete service. Alcohol, perfume, lots of items at a reasonable value yet ciggies must be purchased at the counter in person....so I still need to join a short line for that. I was lucky the pre-purchase was ready to collect and the rollie cigs were only $21 / 50 gms. 1/2 the shop price. Yes, some alcohol can be purchased cheaper but look for the alcohol sizes and do the maths. Shop around online before committing to the airport prices. The surprises are pleasant.

why do they bother to have duty free at Australian Airports, Cigarettes are more expensive at duty free than at Coles shopping centres ...thanks to the greedy government. a Carton of cigs at Singapore duty free is about $30, exactly the same gigs in Australia is $160. i dont get it !!!

I recently went through the Melbourne Tullamarine store and bought an expensive bottle of Scotch whiskey only to find it much cheaper on Ebay and Dan Murphy's.
Duty may be removed but the goods are highly marked up.

I purchased 2 bottles of Moet prior to travelling to the US, with the intention of picking them up on arrival back into Melbourne. Subsequently, one of my flights was cancelled, and I ended up going through Sydney with a domestic flight back to Melbourne. I explained this to the assistants at Melbourne Airport and they were more than happy to assist me upon presentation of id. Can't thank them enough for their understanding in my situation.

During the completion of my purchase I was asked if I'd like to buy a $1 bag. I happily accepted only to find the person behind the counter tried to charge me for 3 bags ($3 extra) while trying to distract me by yapping away. If I'm willing to pay the extra for your bags (which should be free by the way) the least you could do is show a bit of respect and be thankful for just that. Shameful