Cheap Flights to Rarotonga

What are the top cafes and restaurants in Rarotonga?

Mooring Fish Cafe

Mooring Fish Cafe is loved by locals and tourists alike. It's one of the spots in Rarotonga for a delicious sandwich that will leave you feeling satiated. Once your Rarotonga flights land, head on over and try the cafe's iconic FOB sandwich. It's made from fresh fish caught that day, and Turkish bread.

Le Bon Vivant

Le Bon Vivant has a beautiful outdoor setting that's perfect for lunch. Families with small children can go for strolls in the gardens and spot the chickens that call the restaurant grounds home. When it comes to food, you won't be disappointed. Try the iced chai latte and take some doughnuts away with you.

Charlie’s Cafe and Bar

For foodies booking cheap Rarotonga flights, Charlie's should be at the top of your dining bucket list. The seaside eatery has stunning views and a laid-back atmosphere that will set the pace for the rest of your trip.

Deli-Licious Cafe Limited

Want to go out for breakfast? Deli-Licious Cafe is one of the top spots for brunch on the island. You can choose from a range of items that are made from the freshest ingredients. Plus, this diner overlooks Muri Beach. Once you've finished your meal, you can walk to the sand and get to work on your tan.

Trader Jacks

Trader's Jacks is the place to go for travellers who have cravings for Western fare. The restaurant serves up mouthwatering pizza and boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

What are the top tips for first-time travellers to Rarotonga?

Hire a car

For travellers that want to get off the beaten track, you'll want to hire a car. You can select the vehicle of your choice when you book your Rarotonga flights with Webjet. Once you arrive, your car will be waiting for you at Rarotonga International Airport (RAR). The island is only 32 kilometres in circumference, so you don't need to have a large budget to travel independently around Rarotonga.

The Internet is expensive

Rarotonga isn't the best destination for location-independent professionals. It can cost $50 NZD for one gigabyte of data. If you need to get online, book a hotel that offers free WiFi or get something to eat at a restaurant that has free internet for patrons. Otherwise, use high data prices are the perfect excuse for a digital detox.

Bus travel around Rarotonga

If you don't want to hire a car, travellers who fly to Rarotonga can get around using the bus. A single ride around town usually costs around $5 NZD, and a return is $8 NZD. You'll also need to pay $2 NZD per bag.

Transport from Rarotonga International Airport (RAR)

Once your cheap flights to Rarotonga land, you can take a taxi to your hotel. The drivers wait outside by the Arrivals area. You can book a fixed-price airport transfer or take a metered trip from the airport to Muri. Budget travellers can take the public bus. It leaves Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) every 30 minutes from the RSA Club across the road from the airport car park.
 

What are the top things to do and see in Rarotonga?

Go on a snorkelling day trip

The water around Rarotonga is crystal clear and the reefs are full of marine life. Travellers can book a snorkelling day trip and spend a few hours swimming with tropical fish and sea turtles. If you want to go snorkelling by yourself, always ask the locals for advice; some strong currents around the island can put you at risk.

Hike the Needle

The Needle is the highest point in Rarotonga. However, it's not the easiest hike for travellers to conquer. The path can be hard to find, so make sure you do your research and speak to the locals. If you'd rather admire the view, there are plenty of viewpoints of the mountain around the island that are accessible by car once you fly to Rarotonga.

Go to Te Vara Nui Village

The Cook Islands are home to a fascinating local culture. Once you've booked your cheap flights to Rarotonga, look into spending an evening at Te Vara Nui Village. You'll learn about local history and ancient traditions.

Visit the Saturday Punanga Nui Market

Pick up the perfect Rarotonga souvenir at the Saturday Punanga Nui Market. It's open from 8am to 12pm, and you'll find locals and tourists browsing the stalls. If you get hungry, there are food stalls, while traditional dances are also performed at the market.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly from NZ to Rarotonga?

New Zealand is set to open a travel bubble with the Cook Islands in late May 2021, allowing New Zealanders to travel to Rarotonga without the need to quarantine on arrival.

What airlines fly to Rarotonga?

Flights to Rarotonga from New Zealand are serviced by Air New Zealand.

How long does it take to fly from NZ to Rarotonga?

Direct flights from Auckland to Rarotonga are approximately 3 hours 35 minutes in duration, with non-direct flights from other airports typically longer in length.

How much are flights from NZ to Rarotonga?

Flights from New Zealand to Rarotonga vary in price. The total cost of your airfare will depend on the airport you depart from, the day of the week you’re due to depart and the overall demand for tickets to Rarotonga.