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AKL → PPQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Paraparaumu Airport (Paraparaumu)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides are spectacular, the right side offers a superior view of the iconic Mt Taranaki and a stunning coastal approach toward Kapiti Island.
Manukau Harbour
Aerial perspective of the dramatic sandbars and the narrow entrance at Manukau Heads.
Raglan Coastline
See the world-famous surf breaks and the rugged black sand beaches of the Waikato coast.
Mt Taranaki
The star of the flight: a perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone rising solo from the surrounding plains.
Kapiti Island
A close-up view of this famous bird sanctuary and island reserve during the final descent into Paraparaumu.
Sit on the right for an unobstructed view of Mt Taranaki, which is often visible for a significant portion of the flight. On the descent, you will get a spectacular view of the Kapiti Coast's marine environment.
Waikato River
Follow the winding path of New Zealand's longest river as it snakes through lush green dairy country.
Tongariro National Park
Incredible views of the volcanic trio: Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom), and Mt Tongariro.
Lake Taupo
Glimpse the vast expanse of Australasia's largest freshwater lake shimmering in the distance.
Tararua Ranges
The rugged, forest-clad mountains that form the backbone of the lower North Island.
Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Central Plateau volcanoes. Look for the 'Desert Road' landscape adjacent to Mt Ruapehu for a unique lunar-like view.
Distance: 434 km (270 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: PPQ (-40.90470123291016, 174.98899841308594)
Route Type: Domestic
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