Loading map...
CHC → BHE
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Woodbourne Airport (Woodbourne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers breathtaking, close-up views of the rugged Seaward and Inland Kaikōura mountain ranges, which provide a dramatic contrast to the coastal plains below.
Search flights from CHC to BHE
Southern Alps
Distant views of the main divide's snow-capped peaks stretching along the western horizon.
Seaward Kaikōura Range
Dramatic, jagged mountain peaks that rise abruptly from the coast, often covered in snow.
Mt Tapuae-o-Uenuku
The highest peak in the Inland Kaikōura Range, standing prominently at 2,885 meters.
Marlborough Vineyards
The geometric patchwork of world-famous Sauvignon Blanc vineyards as you descend into the Wairau Valley.
Wairau River
The wide, braided riverbed that carves through the valley toward the landing strip at Woodbourne.
Choose the left side for the most impressive mountain scenery. Afternoon flights are particularly scenic as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Kaikōura ranges. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing for the best view of the Wairau Valley descent.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Pegasus Bay
The vast, sweeping sandy curve of the coastline immediately north of Christchurch.
Braided River Mouths
The unique aesthetic of the Waimakariri and Hurunui rivers meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Kaikōura Peninsula
A distinct limestone headland famous for its deep-sea canyon and abundant marine life.
Cloudy Bay
The beautiful coastal indentation and lagoons near the mouth of the Wairau River.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean and the curve of the Earth.
The right side is perfect for morning flights to see the sunrise over the ocean. Watch the coastline closely near Kaikōura; on clear days, you can see the shelf where the water color changes to a deep indigo. It is generally a more serene and blue-hued view.
Book Hotels in WoodbourneDistance: 245 km (152 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: BHE (-41.5182991027832, 173.8699951171875)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.