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Christchurch Airport: New direct Christchurch to Rarotonga flight takes off

  • 2026-05-25

South Islanders can now fly direct from Christchurch to Rarotonga and swap chilly winter mornings for warm tropical evenings, with the first non-stop Air New Zealand service departing Christchurch this afternoon.


The new seasonal service will operate up to three times a week through to late October, making it easier than ever for Cantabrians to escape to the Cook Islands’ warm weather, turquoise lagoons and laidback island lifestyle.


Following the announcement of three new Air New Zealand international routes from Christchurch last week, Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson says the route is yet another exciting addition to the airport’s growing international network.


“Rarotonga has long been a favourite destination for South Islanders, and this new direct service makes getting there easier than ever.


Travellers can leave Christchurch in the afternoon and be enjoying tropical temperatures, island hospitality and dinner by the beach that same evening.” 


The service will add approxmiately19600 seats between Christchurch and the Cook Islands across the season, strengthening tourism and travel connections between the South Island and the Pacific.

CATEGORY
COUNTRY / AREA
New Zealand
AUTHOR
Christchurch Airport
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