If you’re arriving by air, you won’t have to think too long which airport to choose. Rangiora has just one – Christchurch Intl. Airport (CHC).

If you plan on staying in central Rangiora, it’s a smart idea to arrange how you’ll get into the city before you arrive. The downtown area is approximately 21 kilometres from Christchurch Airport.

A flight to Rangiora means touching down at CHC. Step off the plane, grab your bags and you’ll be 21 kilometres from the center of town.

There are 7 airlines that fly into Rangiora from 22 airports around the world.

Air New Zealand and Jetstar fly frequently into Rangiora. Catching an Air New Zealand flight from Auckland is one of the most preferred ways to get there.

With 655 nonstop flights running each week, you’ll be hitting the runway in Rangiora before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Rangiora from Auckland, Wellington and Nelson airports are the most sought after.

If it’s Auckland you’re departing, you’ll be midair for around 1 hour and 30 minutes before you arrive in Rangiora. Tarmac to tarmac from Wellington typically takes 58 minutes and from Nelson, 55 minutes.

If you want to save some cash on your trip to Rangiora, then listen up! As any seasoned jet-setter will tell you, don’t book at the very last minute. Prices are generally more expensive close to the departure date. Another fantastic way to nab an unbeatable deal is to compare all options. If where you’re headed has more than one airport, look into the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Finally, be prepared to secure your seat quickly if you find an irresistible price. It might not be available for long! With a bit of know-how and some good fortune, the perfect fare can be yours.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be a seamless experience if you’ve prepared well. Take a peek at these handy tips that will help get your Rangiora vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be a cruisy experience if you take the right things. Firstly, you’ll need basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush and lip balm, a fresh set of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find a spot in your hand luggage for your phone and charger, your important medications and maybe a neck pillow too. Last, but definitely not least, remember to bring your passport, travel docs and your bank cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sporting equipment like baseball bats, and objects that could harm other people, such as pepper spray and firearms, can’t come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort really should be your prime concern when deciding what to wear during your flight. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are quite common. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a condition that can affect passengers on long-distance flights. The good news is there are numerous ways to lower your risk of developing it. Stay well hydrated, walk up and down the aisles as much as possible and wear compression socks to help improve your circulation.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach security. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Rangiora in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to see that you have a valid passport and boarding pass before anything else. Have them ready to show.
• After that, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items like your belt, coat and headphones will be required to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from technology. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic devices must also be sent through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• There’s a possibility that you’ll be required to take your shoes off to be X-rayed, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a clever idea.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won’t be allowed on board and will be confiscated.