In the lead up to next week’s 50th anniversary celebration of the Rarotonga International Airport, passengers on “Flight Bus Number 50” public tour broke into heartfelt island songs, cherishing the milestone moment of riding along the airport runway.

Rarotonga International Airport opened its doors to the public yesterday morning for the Arrival and Departure Terminal Tour and Airport Authority Careers Expo.

For the very first time, visitors were granted access to tour the inner workings of the airport terminal, gaining insights into the diverse roles of its employees in this travel hub.

Airport Authority staff welcomed visitors at the departure terminal through to the arrival facility.

In the Transit Area, located between both terminals, airport security officer Tepaeru Tutai was both cheerful and informative about the screening operations.

Marama Denny was delighted she took up the public invitation to attend the event.

“I actually loved the Terminal Tour since I haven’t travelled overseas since 2018,” said Denny.

“Coming through it was nice to see the upgrades, the colourful murals by Katu (Teiti).

“I liked the tivaivai display, and the cultural carvings on the walls, that was interesting for me to see, the different art work and cultural themes.”

Nane Marsters and seven-year-old Tearuru Marsters from Aitutaki also enjoyed the airport tour.

“This was a good experience for us especially coming from the Pa Enua, seeing the airport inside and learning about the different roles of the staff and career pathways,” said Nane.

“For me, it looks like there are a few roles here at the airport that I wouldn’t mind maybe looking into.”

Escorted by Airport Authority vehicles, the Rehab Party Bus transported visitors along the 2.328 kilometre and 45 metres wide runway.

Entertaining tour guide Edwin Henry narrated information on the working mechanism of the air strip such as the landing aerial system and upkeep of the runway.

Ikiariki Rua, who is in her early 70s, and her 69-year-old sister Terii Maurangi, were both happy to experience the runway ride.

“This was very exciting tour, our first and only tour and we thank Airport Authority for giving us all the opportunity to go through and learn more about the airport and roles of the staff, its impressive,” said Rua.

Apii Te Uki Ou senior students enjoyed the tour and runway drive with some showing a keen interest in the Airport Authority Rescue Fire Fighters.

Today, Tuesday, January 23, at 5.30pm – 6.30pm, the public is invited to walk, run, or cycle along the airport runway and be a part of the exclusive “Runway Escape”.

Members of the public are asked to park at the Panama Meeting House located behind Cook Islands Building Supplies (next door to Motor Centre).

Entry to the airport runway will be accessed through the Panama gate.