Rarotonga International Airport

Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is the primary international gateway to the Cook Islands and is located approximately 3 km west of Avarua, the capital of Rarotonga. As the country’s main airport, it serves both domestic and international flights, providing essential air connectivity between the Cook Islands and destinations across the South Pacific region.

Rarotonga International Airport (Photo by: Airport Authority Cook Islands Official FB)

Facilities

The airport operates a passenger terminal serving both domestic and international arrivals and departures. Facilities include airline check-in counters, baggage handling services, customs and immigration processing, visitor information services, retail outlets, food and beverage facilities, car rental services, and transportation amenities. Passenger services are designed to support both local and international travellers arriving in and departing from the Cook Islands.

Airlines

Airlines operating at RAR include Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Air Rarotonga, and Air Tahiti. These carriers provide domestic and international passenger services connecting the Cook Islands with destinations across the South Pacific region. International flights link Rarotonga with destinations in New Zealand, Australia, and French Polynesia, while domestic services connect Rarotonga with the outer islands of the Cook Islands, supporting tourism, business travel, and essential inter-island transportation.

Transportation

Travellers can access Avarua, resorts, and other destinations around Rarotonga by taxi, rental car, hotel transfer, and public bus services. The airport is situated along Ara Tapu, the island’s main coastal road, providing convenient access to accommodation, attractions, commercial centres, and residential areas. Travel time between the airport and central Avarua is 5 to 10 minutes.

Rarotonga International Airport plays a vital role in supporting tourism, economic development, and inter-island connectivity in the Cook Islands. As the country’s principal aviation hub, it facilitates international arrivals and provides essential links between Rarotonga and communities across the archipelago.

Contact Information

Rarotonga International Airport (RAR)
Ara Tapu Road
Avarua
Rarotonga
Cook Islands

Tel: +682 25 890

Email: jngamata@airport.gov.ck

Website: https://www.airport.gov.ck/