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AKL β WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of New Zealand's volcanic heart, including the three major peaks of the Central Plateau and a spectacular entry into Wellington Harbour.
Search flights from AKL to WLG
Auckland Isthmus
Aerial views of the narrowest part of the country, featuring the Sky Tower and both the WaitematΔ and Manukau harbours.
Tongariro National Park
Unrivaled views of the volcanic trio: the massive Mt Ruapehu, the conical Mt Ngauruhoe, and the rugged Mt Tongariro.
Lake Taupo
A glimpse of Australasia's largest freshwater lake, occupying the caldera of a prehistoric supervolcano.
Tararua Ranges
The dense, cloud-piercing forest ranges that form the spine of the lower North Island.
Wellington City
On a standard Runway 16 approach, you get a close-up view of the central business district and the waterfront.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the best chance to see the volcanoes in the center of the island. Late afternoon flights are ideal as the setting sun illuminates the western faces of the mountains, providing excellent photo opportunities without the morning glare.
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Get eSIMs for New ZealandTasman Coastline
Rugged black sand beaches and the wild surf of the western coastline.
Mount Taranaki
The isolated, near-perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone rising from the Taranaki dairy pastures to the west.
Kapiti Island
A prominent offshore nature reserve and bird sanctuary visible during the descent into Wellington.
Cook Strait
The narrow stretch of water separating the North and South Islands, often filled with ferries.
South Island Peaks
On exceptionally clear days, the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges of the South Island are visible across the water.
The right side is best for spotting Mount Taranaki in the distance. During winter, choose a morning flight for the crispest air and best visibility of the distant South Island snow peaks. Be prepared for bumps on descent, as the 'Windy City' approach is famous for its crosswinds.
Book Hotels in WellingtonDistance: 480 km (298 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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