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AKL → HLZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Hamilton International Airport (Hamilton)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the rugged Tasman coastline, the dramatic Waikato River mouth, and the volcanic silhouettes of the western Waikato region.
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Manukau Harbour
Intricate patterns of sandbanks and tidal channels immediately visible after taking off from AKL.
Waikato Heads
The dramatic meeting point where the Waikato River flows into the Tasman Sea amidst black sand dunes.
Whangamarino Wetland
A vast, internationally recognized peat bog and freshwater swamp ecosystem teeming with birdlife.
Mount Pirongia
The prominent, jagged silhouette of an ancient extinct stratovolcano rising to the southwest of Hamilton.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh eastern sun. Since this route uses ATR-72 or Q300 turboprops, choose a seat behind the high-mounted wings for an unobstructed view of the ground.
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Auckland Skyline
A distant but clear view of the Sky Tower and CBD skyscrapers against the Hauraki Gulf.
Hunua Ranges
Vibrant green forested hills and water reservoirs that provide much of Auckland's water supply.
Hauraki Plains
Expansive, flat dairy farming landscapes that stretch toward the base of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Lake Waikare
The largest of several shallow lakes in the northern Waikato, visible as you descend toward Hamilton.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is better for spotting the distant Coromandel Ranges and the rural industrial heart of the Waikato dairy industry.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 107 km (66 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: HLZ (-37.8666992188, 175.332000732)
Route Type: Domestic
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