Rarotonga International Airport (RAR)

A small public car park is available near the Terminal Check-In area for travellers driving to the airport for a small fee.  

There are two Cook Islands bus services, the Clockwise bus and the Anticlockwise bus. Both run frequently on a circuit around the island and make stops either at Rarotonga International Airport itself or a short walk from arrivals.  

Planning to explore Rarotonga at your own pace? AVIS and Polynesian Rentals are available in the Arrival area of the airport for those looking to hire a car. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave

Rarotonga International Airport has a dedicated taxi rank near the Arrivals area. 

A small number of airlines fly into and out of Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), including Air New Zealand, Air Rarotonga, Hawaiian Airlines and Jetstar.  

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Rarotonga International Airport two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and at least three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are several ground transportation options available from Rarotonga International Airport to the nearby town of Avarua and other popular holiday spots around the island, including car rentals and the public Cook Islands bus service. 

Yes, there is one main airport lounge at Rarotonga International Airport, the Air New Zealand Koru Lounge. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the lounge at Rarotonga International Airport. 

There aren’t any hotels or shower facilities located within Rarotonga International Airport itself, but you'll have no trouble finding somewhere to stay nearby on the island! If you're looking for a place to relax while you wait for your flight, check whether you're able to access the Air New Zealand Koru Lounge at Rarotonga International Airport and ask your Travel Expert for help booking accommodation for your Cook Islands holiday today! 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from the Cook Islands booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. 

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Rarotonga International Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.  

Both domestic and international flights operate out of a single terminal at Rarotonga International Airport, which makes navigating the airport a breeze! 

Rarotonga International Airport has a small public car park near the Terminal Check-In area for travellers driving to the airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on current rates. 

Being a relatively small airport, family facilities may be limited at Rarotonga International Airport. For more information and assistance planning the perfect family holiday, talk to your Travel Expert.  

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Rarotonga International Airport? A small number of souvenir, retail stores and dining options are available for you to enjoy before your flight, including duty-free shopping. Check Rarotonga International Airport’s website for an up-to-date list of shopping and dining options. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Rarotonga International Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you're booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!