Cheap flights from Nelson to Rarotonga Island - Compare the best flight deals

Prices shown below were available within the past 3 days for the period specified and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Cheapest time to fly from Nelson to Rarotonga Island

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week: 4 Aug - 10 Aug

Flights from just $767

$1,116

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$989

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Currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket

30%Trains are 30% more expensive in Rarotonga Island than in Nelson.

Nelson$4.00

Rarotonga Island$5.00

MealMid-priced restaurant

40%A meal in Rarotonga Island is 40% cheaper than a meal in Nelson.

Nelson$35.00

Rarotonga Island$20.00

TaxiStandard daytime start rate

400%Taxis are 400% more expensive in Rarotonga Island than in Nelson.

Nelson$7.00

Rarotonga Island$35.00

CoffeeRegular cappuccino

33%Coffee is 33% more expensive in Rarotonga Island than in Nelson.

Nelson$5.40

Rarotonga Island$7.17

Distance: 3374 kms

Nelson airports

Nelson Airport (NSN)How far from city centre: 2 kms

Rarotonga Island airports

Rarotonga (RAR)How far from city centre: 4 kms

Comprehensive Guide to Flights from Nelson to Rarotonga

Rarotonga, the jewel of the Cook Islands, beckons with its rich Polynesian culture, dramatic volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches. Its history, dating back centuries, is reflected in ancient marae (sacred sites) and traditional crafts, while the vibrant coral reefs and lush rainforests offer breathtaking natural beauty. The island's warm hospitality and laid-back atmosphere create an unforgettable experience for every visitor. The fastest way to reach this paradise from Nelson is by air. The average direct flight duration is roughly 4 hours, however, this can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific aircraft type. At least two major airlines, Air New Zealand and Jetstar, usually offer direct flights, although the frequency varies throughout the year; you might find daily flights or fewer during the off-season. If no direct flights are available, you may need to consider alternative routes involving stopovers in Auckland or other major hubs. These layover options will increase your overall travel time. The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically April to May and September to October. It's generally advised to book your flights at least 2 to 3 months in advance, particularly if you're travelling during peak season, for the best deals. The peak travel season usually coincides with school holidays in Australia and New Zealand, during July-August and the December holiday period. The off-peak months, particularly January to March and after the Christmas holidays, offer a quieter experience, although you may find fewer available flights and higher prices for last-minute bookings. Choosing your travel dates carefully can make your trip much more cost-effective.

Best time to fly to Rarotonga

Rarotonga enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season (April to November) is generally considered the best time to visit, with average temperatures between 24°C and 30°C, lower humidity and plenty of sunshine. Summer (December to March) is hotter and more humid, with higher rainfall, although showers are usually brief. The average temperature during the summer months can exceed 30°C. While Rarotonga avoids extreme weather events, tropical storms can occur during the summer, although this is relatively rare. Spring and autumn offer pleasant transition seasons, with warm temperatures and moderate rainfall.

Nelson airports

Nelson has only one currently operating airport that serves commercial flights, Nelson Airport.

Nelson Airport

Nelson Airport (NSN) is a smaller regional airport, it is a modern facility serving both domestic flights. It is well equipped and efficient for its size.

Main airlines for this route

Air New Zealand
Jetstar

Rarotonga airports

Rarotonga has one main airport that serves commercial flights, Rarotonga International Airport.

Rarotonga International Airport

Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is the primary airport serving Rarotonga. It is a relatively small airport with a single terminal. Getting to the city centre from Rarotonga International Airport is straightforward. Public buses operate regularly from the airport to various locations across the island. Taxis are readily available just outside the airport terminal. Car rentals are also an option for those who wish to explore the island at their own pace.

What to do and see in Rarotonga

Rarotonga offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, there is something to suit everyone.

Muri Beach: Relax and soak up the sun on the iconic Muri Beach, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters. It is one of the most famous beaches in the South Pacific.
Cross Island Trek: Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike across the island, culminating in breathtaking views from the summit of Te Rua Manga ('The Needle').
Island Night: Experience the vibrant culture of Rarotonga with an authentic Island Night, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine. It is a cultural experience you don't want to miss.

Frequently asked questions about flights from Nelson to Rarotonga Island

Is it safe to travel from Nelson to Rarotonga Island during the Covid-19 situation?

At eDreams we do our best to ensure that your travel plans won't be affected by restrictions or possible cancellations that Cook Islands may apply. Using the flexible ticket gurantee you can decide if you rather rebook or get a refund!

For flights from Nelson to Rarotonga Island, how can I find the cheapest price?

The cheapest price for a flight from Nelson to Rarotonga Island is 382$. At eDreams we use different machine learned based methodologies to find our costumers the best option available, considering airline combinations, stopovers and direct flights as well as different criteria for inbound and outbound journeys.

Is Rarotonga Island more expensive than Nelson to visit?

Looking at cab fares, a ride in Rarotonga Island costs about $ 35.00 NZD, 400% more expensive than Nelson, with a fare of $ 7.00 NZD,

while train tickets cost 25% more at Rarotonga Island: $ 5.00 NZD versus $ 4.00 NZD at Nelson.

Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 20.00 NZD euros in Rarotonga Island, 43% less than the 35.00 NZD euros in Nelson.

The price of the coffee is around 33% more expensive in Rarotonga Island, with an average of 7.17 NZD , while in Nelson the coffee costs 5.40 NZD.

How is the weather in Rarotonga Island compared to Nelson?

While in Nelson the temperatures can reach an average of 26.47 ºC in summer, with precipitation levels up to 9 mm ,Rarotonga Island's temperatures can go up to 31.75 ºC during the hot season, with 6 mm average of rain rate . In winter, however, weather indicators show around 17.05 ºC in Rarotonga Island, compared to the -4.61 ºC average degrees reported in Nelson. During the winter period, Nelson can register 9 mm precipitation, while Rarotonga Island have an average of 6 mm rain level.

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