Loading map...
AKL → PMR
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Palmerston North Airport (Palmerston North)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to New Zealand's volcanic heart, including the majestic peaks of Tongariro National Park and the lush Waikato basin.
Search flights from AKL to PMR
Manukau Harbour
Aerial views of the massive tidal flats and the southern Auckland coastline immediately after takeoff.
Waikato River
The country's longest river visible as it meanders through the fertile green plains of the Waikato region.
Volcanic Plateau
Spectacular views of Mount Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro, often snow-capped during winter months.
Ruahine Ranges
The rugged mountain spine of the lower North Island visible during the descent into the Manawatu region.
Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the peaks of the Central Plateau. A seat behind the wing is recommended to avoid engine obstruction when viewing the volcanoes. Keep an eye out about 20-25 minutes into the flight for the best mountain views.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
West Coast Beaches
The wild, black-sand coastlines of the Tasman Sea stretching from Raglan down to the Taranaki Bight.
Mount Taranaki
On clear days, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone of Taranaki is visible in the distance across the water.
Kawhia Harbour
A view of the ancient drowned river valleys and unique coastal geography of the King Country.
Manawatu Wind Farms
Dozens of white turbines of the Te Apiti and Tararua wind farms spinning on the hills during final approach.
Morning flights offer the best lighting for the western coastline and Mount Taranaki. During the descent, look specifically for the wind turbines on the hills—they are a landmark feature of the Palmerston North approach. Taranaki visibility is highly weather-dependent, so check for clear skies to the west.
Book Hotels in Palmerston NorthDistance: 375 km (233 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: PMR (-40.32059860229492, 175.61700439453125)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.