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AKL destination photo
BHE destination photo

AKLBHE

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior sequence of New Zealand's diverse landscapes, including distant views of the Central Plateau volcanoes, the Kapiti Coast, and a stunning perspective of the Marlborough Sounds and Wairau Valley vineyards during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏙️

Auckland City & Gulf

Clear views of the Auckland CBD skyline and the Hauraki Gulf islands shortly after departure from AKL.

🌋

Central Plateau Peaks

On clear days, the volcanic trinity of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro is visible in the distance across the North Island.

🏖️

Kapiti Coast

A beautiful view of Kapiti Island and the long stretch of coastline leading toward the Cook Strait.

🛥️

Queen Charlotte Sound

Deep blue waterways and lush green peninsulas of the Marlborough Sounds appear as the plane crosses the strait.

🍇

Wairau Valley Vineyards

An iconic grid of world-famous Sauvignon Blanc vineyards fills the window during the final seconds of the approach.

Sit on the left for the best morning light as the sun rises over the Pacific. This side is particularly rewarding during the descent into Blenheim, as you'll see the intricate ferry routes through the sounds. If you are flying in autumn, the vineyards turn a beautiful golden hue which is most visible from this side.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Manukau Harbour

Immediately after takeoff, witness the vast tidal sandbanks and the rugged entrance to the harbour.

⛰️

Mount Taranaki

The perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone often rises above the cloud layer mid-flight to the west.

🐚

Farewell Spit & Outer Sounds

Distant views of the northernmost tip of the South Island and the wild Tasman Sea coastline.

🏔️

Richmond Range

The rugged mountains marking the start of the Southern Alps provide a dramatic backdrop to the South Island entry.

🏞️

Pelorus Sound

Stunning aerial views of the western Marlborough Sounds with their secluded bays and steep ridgelines.

The right side is the premier choice for sunset flights, offering a golden glow over the Tasman Sea and Mt Taranaki. Be sure to look for the distinct turquoise water shifts around D'Urville Island. During winter, the snow-capped Richmond Range provides a stark and beautiful contrast to the green valleys below.

Top Activities in Woodbourne
Route Information

Distance: 508 km (316 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 51 min

Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)

Arrival: BHE (-41.5182991027832, 173.8699951171875)

Route Type: Domestic

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