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AKL → NOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to La Tontouta International Airport (Noumea)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to New Zealand's dramatic west coast beaches upon departure and the breathtaking turquoise waters of the world's largest lagoon when approaching New Caledonia.
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Waitakere Ranges & Piha
Dramatic black sand beaches and lush rainforest ridges immediately after takeoff from Auckland.
Kaipara Harbour
The massive, intricate patterns of one of the world's largest enclosed harbors and its shifting sandbars.
Isle of Pines
In the distance during descent, look for the iconic 'Kunies' surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.
New Caledonian Barrier Reef
Stunning aerial views of the UNESCO World Heritage reef system with its distinct turquoise and deep blue gradients.
Southern Lagoon
Exquisite views of tiny uninhabited islets and sandbanks as the plane aligns for its final approach to NOU.
Sit on the left (Port) side to avoid direct sun glare during northern-bound afternoon flights. The descent into Noumea is spectacular; keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture the reef patterns. Late afternoon flights offer a stunning golden glow over the New Zealand coastline.
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Auckland City & Sky Tower
A clear view of the 'City of Sails' and the iconic Sky Tower if the flight departs toward the east before turning north.
Rangitoto Island
The youngest and most iconic volcanic cone in the Hauraki Gulf, visible shortly after departure.
Grande Terre Mountains
The rugged, mountainous spine of New Caledonia, showing the island's unique geological diversity.
Yaté Red Earth
The distinctive iron-rich red soil of the Great South region of New Caledonia visible during the final descent.
Tontouta Valley
Lush river valleys and nickel mining sites as the plane descends inland toward the runway.
The right side is excellent for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Hauraki Gulf islands. As you approach New Caledonia, look for the contrast between the red earth and green vegetation. This side often provides a clearer view of the mountainous interior of the main island.
Book Hotels in NoumeaDistance: 1,860 km (1,156 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: NOU (-22.01460075378418, 166.21299743652344)
Route Type: International
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