Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT) is the sole airport in Rotorua.

If you’re basing yourself in the center of Rotorua, you’ll be there within moments after touching down at Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT). This terminal is just 6 kilometers from the downtown area.

Rotorua is popular with travelers, and it has the airports to prove it. If you’re thinking about a trip to this busy city, there’s a good chance you’ll disembark at Tauranga Airport (TRG) (48 kilometers from downtown). If not, it’ll probably be Rotorua Airport (6 kilometers from downtown) or Taupo Airport (TUO) (72 kilometers from downtown).

With 2 airlines flying into Rotorua from 3 airports around the globe, your perfect flight is only a few clicks away.

Flights into Rotorua are typically run by Air New Zealand. The majority of these flights depart from Auckland, with Air New Zealand servicing this route the most.

With roughly 189 direct flights operating every week, you’ll be arriving in Rotorua before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

A large number of flights to Rotorua leave from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch airports.

If you’re heading to Rotorua from Auckland, you’re looking at a flight time of 41 minutes. Those taking off from Wellington can expect to be on the plane for 1 hour and 8 minutes. From Christchurch it’s approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes away.

Don’t leave locking in your flight to Rotorua until the last possible moment. That’s one move well-versed jet-setters use to get the best prices. Booking ahead means more choices and more affordable flights. Another easy way to land an unbeatable deal is to compare all options. If where you’re headed has a few airports, be sure to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Last but not least, be prepared to book quickly if you find an irresistible price. It might not be available for too long. With a bit of know-how and a little good fortune, the ideal airfare will be yours.

We’ve got the lowdown on how to make your flight as pain-free as possible. Follow our tips and you’ll be cruising through the airport and having a ball in Rotorua in no time.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Air travel can be a great experience if you take the right stuff. First of all you’ll need toiletry items, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare change of clothes and a good read. Next, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic devices, chargers, any medications and perhaps a comfy neck pillow as well. Lastly, and most importantly, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) won’t be allowed on. Sharp or pointed objects, like a pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as aerosol cans, spray paint and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The narrow aisles of an airplane are no fashion runway. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a cardigan as it tends to get cool in the cabin on long-haul flights. Flat, enclosed shoes are also recommended.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a serious condition that can affect some passengers on long-haul flights. But the great news is there are numerous ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, wander through the cabin wherever possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

The answer is — be prepared. We’ve compiled some helpful hints for a stress-free trip through security. Look out Rotorua, here you come:

• Keep your travel documents and passport easily accessible. They’ll be the first things you’ll be asked to present to airport security.
• After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few moments, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your tablet, phone and any other electronic gadgets will need to go through the scanner.
• Traveling with your favorite hand cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-close bag, you’re allowed to bring it with you on board.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and bulky shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Lightweight sneakers are usually not.
• Pocket knives and other sharp items can’t be taken on board. They’ll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.