Ryan's Creek Aerodrome (SZS)

Oban, NZ 🇳🇿 Small Airport

ICAO

NZRC

IATA

SZS

Elevation

62 ft

Region

NZ-STL

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: NZRC

Local Code: Not available

Location: -46.8997° N, 168.100998° E

Continent: Oceania

Type: Small Airport

Terminal Information Not Available
Terminal arrivals and departures are only available for airports with scheduled commercial service and IATA codes.

What Travelers Say

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Online Reviews Summary

Travelers generally have a positive sentiment and high satisfaction with their experiences at Ryan's Creek Aerodrome (NZRC/SZS), particularly appreciating the scenic and smooth flights to Stewart Island. Many find the journey memorable and a preferable alternative to the potentially rough ferry crossing. Stewart Island Flights, the primary operator, was even recognized as New Zealand's "most loved" airline in 2023.

What Travelers Love
  • Scenic Flights: The short 15-20 minute flight from Invercargill offers stunning aerial views of Stewart Island's coastline and lush landscapes, making the journey itself an enjoyable part of the trip.
  • Smooth Travel: Flights are often described as a smooth experience, providing a welcome alternative for those who find the Foveaux Strait ferry crossing uncomfortable or rough.
  • Efficient Shuttle Service: A complimentary shuttle service connects the aerodrome directly with the township of Oban, specifically the Stewart Island Flights Depot (which also functions as the post office) for check-in. This negates the need for travelers to have private transport to the aerodrome.
  • "Family Feel" Experience: The check-in and boarding process with Stewart Island Flights is noted for its personal, family-like atmosphere, with pilots often handling various aspects of the passenger experience.
  • Gateway to Stewart Island: The aerodrome serves as a convenient and direct entry point to explore Stewart Island's natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Common Complaints
  • Limited Aerodrome Facilities: The aerodrome building itself is a small airstrip with virtually no facilities for passengers. Travelers are explicitly advised not to drive or walk to the airport for check-in or waiting.
  • Small Aircraft: The planes, typically Britten-Norman Islanders, are small (seating around 10 passengers) and can feel like a "squeeze" for some, lacking in-flight amenities like entertainment or toilets.
  • Weather-Related Delays: Flights can be subject to delays due to adverse weather conditions, such as fog at Invercargill, which can impact schedules.

Overall, Ryan's Creek Aerodrome provides a highly regarded and unique entry point to Stewart Island, with travelers appreciating the convenience and scenic beauty of the flights, despite the very minimal facilities at the airstrip itself. The seamless shuttle connection to Oban's main facilities effectively manages the lack of amenities at the aerodrome.

Last updated: 60 days ago

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Airport Routes

Popular Flight Routes

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Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
04/22 2625 ft 52 ft bitumen/gravel Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
CTAF - 130.2 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Ground Transportation Information

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Taxis

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Rental Cars

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Public Transportation

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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.