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AKL destination photo
DUD destination photo

AKLDUD

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Dunedin
Route Information

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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