Airport
Richard Pearse Airport (TIU)
Richard Pearse Airport is the main gateway to Timaru and South Canterbury, with scheduled Air New Zealand flights connecting to Wellington. Compare transfer options to Timaru city centre, Caroline Bay, and onward routes toward the Mackenzie Country and Mount Cook.
Passengers
Luggage
About Richard Pearse Airport
Richard Pearse Airport serves Timaru and the wider South Canterbury region. Opened in 1958 to replace an earlier airfield at Saltwater Creek, it is named after local aviation pioneer Richard Pearse and remains the main airport for South Canterbury, with daily scheduled flights between Timaru and Wellington.
The airport is located about 12.6 km north of central Timaru, off Falvey Road near State Highway 1. Its single passenger terminal was upgraded in 2018 and again in 2021, bringing a larger baggage collection area, refreshed check-in desks, improved seating, lighting and heating, extra charging points, and free Wi-Fi.
Ground transport options include taxis, private transfers, rental cars and local shuttles, with the drive into Timaru city centre normally taking around 15 to 20 minutes. The airport also supports general aviation and the South Canterbury Aero Club.
For travellers, the airport works as a compact regional gateway for visits to Timaru, Caroline Bay, the Mackenzie Country and the Mount Cook area, with onward domestic connections available through Wellington.
Terminal Overview
Terminals
Richard Pearse Airport operates a single passenger terminal used for all scheduled flights, including Air New Zealand services to Wellington. General aviation and the South Canterbury Aero Club use separate facilities on the airfield.
Ground Transportation Services to and from Richard Pearse Airport
Transfers
Book private transfers from Richard Pearse Airport to Timaru hotels, the city centre and locations across South Canterbury.
Hourly Chauffeur
Arrange a chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from the airport to business meetings, events or local sightseeing around Timaru.
Car Rental
Rent a car from Richard Pearse Airport for independent travel around Timaru and onward journeys to Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook and other South Island destinations.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organise minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Richard Pearse Airport, hotels, event venues and destinations around South Canterbury.
Frequently Asked Questions
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