29th January 2024, is the 50th Anniversary of the Rarotonga International Airport.

It was officially opened in 1974, by HRH Elizabeth II

Events Leading Up to the 29th Janurary

Monday 22nd January 2024

The Rarotonga International Airport Departure and Arrival Terminals will be open to the public to walk through, time TBC.

Tuesday 23rd January 2024

The Rarotonga International Airport Runway will be open to the public to take a walk, run or cycle on the 2.329 kilometre air strip.

Wednesday 24 to Friday 26th January 2024

Market Trade days in the Airport Car Park: 8am - 2pm

Monday 29 January 2024

Main Celebration event - 9am - 10:30am. Join us at the airport to celebrate the 50 years of the opening of our international airport

"Celebrating 50 Years of Progress and Unity"

On January 29, 1974, a pivotal moment in our history unfolded as Her Majesty the Queen graced our shores to inaugurate our airport. Next month, we stand at the threshold of our 50th-anniversary celebration, a tribute to the magic and cultural richness of that historic day.

The inaugural ceremony, etched in our collective memory, featured vibrant cultural performances by main and secondary school performers, showcasing the spirit of unity and pride that defines our community. Primary schools and the entire community came together to witness the grandeur of the occasion.

In honour of this significant milestone, we are committed to recreating the magic of the past. Our 50th-anniversary celebration, meticulously being planned by Raemaki Karati, promises a reenactment of the cultural vibrancy that accompanied the airport’s opening ceremony. Island teams and secondary schools will showcase their talents, mirroring the authenticity of the welcome extended to Her Majesty the Queen. Primary schools, true to tradition, will play a pivotal role, uniting the community in celebration.

As we reflect on the journey of the past half-century, our airport stands as a symbol of progress, connectivity, and the resilience of our people. This celebration is not just about the past; it’s a celebration of the present and the future we continue to build together as a community.

Anticipate a day filled with nostalgia, cultural vibrancy, and the warmth of shared memories as we honor the legacy and celebrate the growth and unity that our airport represents for Cook Islanders.