A good question.
A local answer.

If using a private transfer, confirm the pickup point and all-in price before flying.

Price a prebooked direct transfer and compare it with an airport overnight if public services have finished.

Rent a car only for days that need one. A South Bank stay is easier without parking, while regional outings may justify a vehicle.

Leave a buffer if the journey links to a flight or check-in. Keep one group leader watching service alerts so everyone moves to the same replacement-bus stop.

Choose a hotel with easy access to the places you will visit, not only the airport. For a short stay, a slightly longer arrival transfer can be worth a better city base.

If you connect onward the next morning, ask which terminal you need and how the hotel gets you there. Domestic and international terminal journeys may use different arrangements.

If you arrive after the rail service you need, are travelling in a group or have an address far from the rail and tram network, compare a pre-booked transfer with the full train-plus-local-transport journey. Check the provider’s price and pickup point before committing.

Mount Coot-tha is a poor fit if your connection falls in afternoon traffic. Check live travel times on the day and choose a closer stop only if you have a comfortable return buffer; otherwise enjoy the airport stop without risking the next flight.