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AKL → CHC
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular front-row seat to New Zealand's dramatic volcanic and alpine spine, featuring the perfectly conical Mount Taranaki and the snow-capped Southern Alps.
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Mount Taranaki
The iconic and near-perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone standing isolated on the North Island's west coast.
Marlborough Sounds
A stunning network of sea-drowned valleys and lush green ridges at the top of the South Island.
Southern Alps
The majestic snow-capped backbone of the South Island, offering incredible mountain panoramas.
Kapiti Island
A prominent nature reserve and bird sanctuary island seen just before crossing the Cook Strait.
Canterbury Plains
A vast patchwork of agricultural fields and braided rivers that signals the approach to Christchurch.
The right side is essential for afternoon flights to see the Southern Alps illuminated by the western sun. Mount Taranaki usually appears 20 to 25 minutes after takeoff from Auckland; ensure you are seated away from the wing for an unobstructed view of its peak. Winter flights offer the most dramatic snow coverage on the mountains.
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Auckland Isthmus
Breathtaking views of the City of Sails and its numerous volcanic cones during the initial ascent.
Central Plateau
Distant but clear views of the active volcanoes Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu in the North Island's heart.
Cook Strait
The crossing over the turbulent body of water that separates the North and South Islands of New Zealand.
Kaikoura Peninsula
A unique geographic feature where the Kaikoura Ranges meet the Pacific Ocean, famous for whale sightings.
Banks Peninsula
The rugged, circular volcanic landform that dominates the coastline just east of Christchurch.
Choose the left side for early morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. During descent, this side provides the best view of the distinctive Banks Peninsula and Pegasus Bay. In winter, keep an eye out for the dusting of snow on the Kaikoura Ranges.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 746 km (464 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Route Type: Domestic
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