Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Rarotonga (RAR)
Reasons to fly Qantas
Baggage included
Pack more into your trip with checked and carry-on baggage included in every fare.
Inflight entertainment
Visiting from Melbourne to Rarotonga
Rarotonga, the hub of the Cook Islands has so much to see and do and remains unspoilt. It's an island paradise with plenty of coconut trees, the scent of frangipani flowers everywhere and no traffic lights. Choose to climb the summit of the islands volcanic peak, explore the crystal-clear turquoise waters and swim with schools of tropical fish, go whale watching or kite surfing - it's a tropical paradise. There are plenty of restaurants to dine at with a Polynesian twist, enjoy an island massage and take in many of the cultural experiences with dinner at the buzzing Punanga Nui market. You're spoilt for choice on the beautiful island.
Flight information
Fly Melbourne to Rarotonga (MEL to RAR)
The approximate time for a flight from Melbourne to Rarotonga is 7 hours and 25 minutes, via Auckland not including connection.
When to visit
The Cook Islands enjoy a pleasant warm and sunny climate all year round. The drier months are from April to November with an average temperature of 26°C. November to March marks the warmer season, with slightly higher humidity and occasional rainfall. Temperature range between 22°C and 30°C. The months of April, May, September and October are a great time to visit as the weather is warm and clear skies.
Arrival information
What is the main airport called?
Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) It is the Cook Islands' main international gateway, located in the town and district of Avarua, Rarotonga, 3 km west of the downtown area.
Arriving in Rarotonga
The staff at Rarotonga Airport will greet you when you land and assist with your travel needs. Once you collect your bags from the arrivals area, there are various transport options available to get you on your way.
Getting into Rarotonga from Rarotonga Airport
Getting into Rarotonga is easy with a range of transport options to suit your needs. Choose from bus, taxi, ride share, coach transfers, scooters or rental cars. Cooks Buses operate a round-the-island public bus service passing by the airport every 30 minutes. Cook Island Tours and Raro Tours provide meet and greet services and hotel coach transfers to and from all international flights. It's best to pre-book your transfer in advance to your accommodation. A taxi rank is located next to the arrivals area or you may like to rent a car or scooter. The car rental operators have a desk in the in the arrivals area and island car and bike hire depot is located opposite the airport car park exit.
Getting around Rarotonga
Getting around the Cook Islands is easy. There's only one main road that circles the whole of Rarotonga with no traffic lights and just two roundabouts. If you hire a car or a scooter, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. While travelling on a motorcycle in Rarotonga, you need to wear a safety helmet. It's very easy to get around the island using public transport. There are two buses that circle the island of Rarotonga; clockwise and anti-clockwise. The buses will stop anywhere along the main road, all you have to do is smile and wave them down. Cycling around the islands is easy as the main roads are flat. Many hotels will have bicycles available to borrow, or you can hire a bicycle or electric bike. You can also organise a taxi or transfer service or join a tour.
Departure information
Fly from Melbourne
Once you’ve got your tickets from Melbourne, there are a few things you should know to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for your flight.
What is the main airport called?
Melbourne Airport. Located 20 km (12.5 miles) from the city centre, Melbourne Domestic Airport (MEL), also known as Tullamarine Airport, is the main airport serving the state of Victoria. Qantas operates from two terminals in Melbourne T1 - domestic and T2 - international.
Baggage allowance
Passengers on Qantas flights from Melbourne are allocated checked baggage If you need more luggage, you can purchase an additional baggage allowance online prior to departure.
Checking in
Ensure you check-in online or via the Qantas App before you arrive at the airport from 24 hours before departure.
Important information
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Disclaimer: ∆ Meals, beverages, entertainment offerings vary between flight times.
Disclaimer: ± Inflight entertainment varies by route and aircraft.
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