Flights to Stewart Island / Rakiura at a glance

Traveling to Stewart Island / Rakiura is easy, with a full-service airline providing comfortable flights to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Look for cheap flights to Stewart Island to make your journey even more economical.

• Major airport near Stewart Island / Rakiura: Invercargill Airport (IVC)
• Flights per week: 8 flights arriving at Stewart Island / Rakiura airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Stewart Island / Rakiura: around 1 carrier

Popular airport near Stewart Island / Rakiura

Stewart Island / Rakiura is a stunning destination renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Ideal for travelers seeking scenic views, cultural experiences, and beach activities, this island suburb offers a unique getaway. It's conveniently accessible through Invercargill Airport and Queenstown Airport, where small planes connect visitors to this remarkable locale, making travel planning simple and straightforward.

• Invercargill Airport (IVC): Situated in Invercargill City, Southland, approximately 47 miles from Stewart Island / Rakiura, this airport primarily handles domestic flights. Air New Zealand is the main airline operating here.

Top routes to Stewart Island / Rakiura

• Auckland (AKL) to Stewart Island / Rakiura (IVC), with one-way fares starting at around $120

Cheapest routes to Stewart Island / Rakiura

• Auckland (AKL) to Stewart Island / Rakiura (IVC), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $120

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Stewart Island / Rakiura

• Air New Zealand: Offers flights to Invercargill Airport (IVC), making it the primary airline for arrivals to {short_name}. The average one-way ticket price is about $210.

How to save money on a flight to Stewart Island / Rakiura

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Stewart Island / Rakiura is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia.*
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Stewart Island / Rakiura flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Stewart Island / Rakiura

Stewart Island / Rakiura welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Stewart Island / Rakiura efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Invercargill Airport, Invercargill Seaport, a seaport, is located about 1.6 miles away by car, offering convenient access for travelers.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Stewart Island / Rakiura, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Stewart Island / Rakiura is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Stewart Island / Rakiura on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Stewart Island / Rakiura

• Oban: Oban is a village located in the area of Stewart Island / Rakiura, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors flock to Oban to enjoy birdwatching and explore the nearby national parks. Key attractions include the Rakiura Museum, where you can dive into the local history; Observation Rock, a perfect lookout spot for romantic and adventurous souls; and the Presbyterian Church Hall, a quaint venue reflecting the village's culture. Oban serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Stewart Island, making it an ideal base for exploration.
• Stewart Island: Stewart Island is located around the area of Stewart Island / Rakiura and is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor experiences. The island provides numerous hiking trails and access to pristine nature, including the famous Rakiura National Park, perfect for adventure seekers. Visitors can also discover the Stone House, a historic building that tells the story of the area, and the Rakiura Environmental Centre, a landmark dedicated to the island's unique ecology. Stewart Island is a paradise for those who appreciate nature and adventure.
• Halfmoon Bay: Halfmoon Bay is located 16 miles drive away from Stewart Island / Rakiura and offers a blend of adventure and scenic beauty. This charming city is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and outdoor activities, with easy access to ferries for further exploration. Highlights include the Rakiura Museum, showcasing the region's rich history; Observation Rock, a scenic lookout ideal for outdoor enthusiasts; and the Presbyterian Church Hall, which adds a cultural touch to your visit. Halfmoon Bay serves as a lovely retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Tips for short-haul flights to Stewart Island / Rakiura

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Save space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating outfits thoughtfully. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights frequently lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for even short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack your own snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Stewart Island / Rakiura

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow seat selection for free when online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide earlier seat selection.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.