Rarotonga International Airport - RAR Rarotonga
The Rarotonga International Airport, RAR, is the main public international airport that services the people of Avarua, Rarotonga. Five airlines operate under the airport: Virgin Australia, Jetstar Airways, Air Rarotonga, Air New Zealand, and Air Tahiti. These airlines fly domestically, to other regions of Australia, and internationally, such as to Los Angeles. Rarotonga International Airport has one concrete runway, measuring 7, 638 feet long, designated 06/28. The runway can accommodate both a Boeing 767 and 777, along with an Airbus A320.
Best Time to Visit
Rarotonga International Airport was opened to the public in 1974. As a relatively small airport, it still remains busy, accommodating approximately 100,000 passengers a year. The renovations to the airport’s infrastructure that took place between the years of 2011 to 2015 targeted improving its overall structure and allowing it to operate on solar energy, with photovoltaic panels being installed along the runway. The New Zealand Ministry of Transport was originally operated Rarotonga International Airport before passing the reins to the Cook Islands Airport Authority. The airport’s location near the coast of Cook Islands makes the experience of flying all the more scenic. Neighboring areas to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands include Avatiu, Omoka, Oneroa, Ngatangiia, and Arutanga.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Lodgings near Rarotonga International Airport include The Cooks Oasis Holiday Villas, Blue Lagoon Villa, Te Ravaki Estate, and Castaway Resort. All of these accommodations are very highly recommended by guests, who stay for the peaceful beachside rooms and the easy access to the beach, where water activities abound. Nearby alternative airports are spread around Cook Islands, like the Enua Airport in Atiu, northeast of Rarotonga.
