Taupo has only one airport, Taupo Airport (TUO).

If you’re basing yourself in the center of Taupo, you’ll be there within moments after landing at TUO. This terminal is just 6 kilometers from the downtown area.

Taupo Airport is the only major airport in Taupo. Before you take off, it’s a wise idea to find out a little about it. It is located 6 kilometers from the center of town.

You have a number of choices if you’re jetting to Taupo. Take your pick of 2 airlines that service this destination from at least 2 airports around the globe.

Air New Zealand operates most of the flights to Taupo. Grabbing an Air New Zealand flight from Auckland is the preferred way of getting there.

Flying to somewhere new is much simpler when there aren’t any lengthy stopovers. If you’re traveling to Taupo, the great news is that there are 25 direct flights every week.

Auckland and Wellington airports are popular departure points for travelers flying to Taupo.

Flights from Auckland to Taupo are typically 50 minutes. Or you could leave from Wellington instead, which would mean you’ll be in the air for around 1 hour.

Don’t leave locking in your flight to Taupo until the last moment. That’s one trick frequent travelers use to get the best deals. Booking in advance means more choices and less expensive flights. Don’t stop there, though. Do some research and check if there are a few airports at your destination. Ticket prices often differ depending on the airport you jet into. Make sure you compare fares across air carriers as well. Last but not least, another simple way to save some money is be ready to book at a moment’s notice. If you see an irresistible deal, don’t hold off — grab it while you’ve got the chance.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your journey to Taupo could be a breeze or it could drag on forever. We’ve rounded up some tips that will help you start your next unforgettable escape on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, official ID, cash and medications. Next, you’ll need some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, squeeze in a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh and ready to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of restricted items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, knives, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sporting equipment like golf clubs, and items that could harm other people, such as firearms and swords, can’t come on board with you either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The long, narrow aisles of an aircraft are no fashion runway. Wear comfortable clothes and take a cardigan as it can get chilly in the cabin on long-haul flights. Slightly roomy, flat shoes are also a wise idea.
• It’s likely you’ve heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There are numerous ways to reduce your risk. Wear a pair of compression socks, drink lots of water and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Wander around the cabin or perform some simple exercises in your seat.

The secret is to be well prepared before you arrive at the airport security gate. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Taupo in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. They’re the first things you’ll be asked to show at airport security.
• After that, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Choosing your footwear wisely can save you several precious minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes usually aren’t.
• Airlines will not allow any pocket knives or other sharp items in your carry-on baggage. If you need to bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.