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AKL → DUD
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Dunedin Airport (Dunedin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of New Zealand's most dramatic mountain ranges, including the iconic Mount Taranaki and the Southern Alps.
Mount Taranaki
The nearly perfect symmetrical volcanic cone visible on the western horizon of the North Island.
Southern Alps
The spectacular spine of the South Island, stretching continuously with snow-capped peaks.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
New Zealand's tallest peak is often visible as the prominent high point of the Main Divide.
Glacial Lakes
Deep blue vistas of the alpine lakes like Tekapo and Pukaki tucked into the mountain valleys.
Taieri Plain
The lush, rolling green farmlands surrounding Dunedin as the plane makes its final approach.
The right side is essential for seeing the Southern Alps in their full glory. Mount Taranaki usually appears about 20-30 minutes into the flight. In winter, the snow coverage makes the Southern Alps particularly photogenic. Afternoon flights provide excellent golden-hour lighting across the mountain ridges, though window glare can be an issue.
Auckland Cityscape
Panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and the Auckland CBD shortly after takeoff.
Volcanic Plateau
Distant views of the active volcanoes Ruapehu and Tongariro in the center of the North Island.
Cook Strait
Visual crossing of the rugged gap between the North and South Islands near Wellington.
Kaikoura Peninsula
A distinct geographic finger jutting into the Pacific, often surrounded by turquoise waters.
Banks Peninsula
The circular, jagged remains of two massive extinct volcanoes located just south of Christchurch.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to see the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. This side offers better views of the coastline, particularly the dramatic cliffs of the Kaikoura region and the unique shape of Banks Peninsula. Ensure you are seated well clear of the wing for the best downward views of the Canterbury Plains.
Distance: 1,063 km (661 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: DUD (-45.9281005859375, 170.197998046875)
Route Type: Domestic
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