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CHC → HKK
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Hokitika Airfield (Hokitika)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior panoramic view of the Southern Alps' main divide, stretching south toward the highest peaks of New Zealand, including distant glimpses of the Aoraki/Mount Cook region on clear days.
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Canterbury Plains
The intricate mosaic of agricultural paddocks and windbreaks stretching south from Christchurch.
Waimakariri River
View the dramatic braided patterns of one of New Zealand's largest shingle-bed rivers.
Lake Coleridge
A stunning turquoise glacial lake nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps.
Southern Alps Spine
Incredible close-up views of the snow-capped mountain range as the aircraft crosses the main divide.
Hokitika River Gorge
The brilliant blue waters of the Hokitika River winding through dense West Coast rainforest during descent.
Sit on the left for the most iconic mountain views. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Alps without creating glare. In winter, the snow line drops low, making the transition from the plains to the mountains visually spectacular. Keep your camera ready as soon as the plane levels off, as the alpine crossing happens quickly.
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Torlesse Range
The rugged northern foothills that mark the beginning of the high country ascent.
Arthur's Pass National Park
Look down into the deep valleys and steep gorges that the TranzAlpine train traverses.
Mount Rolleston
A prominent and jagged peak often visible near the mountain pass area.
Lake Brunner
The largest lake in the West Coast region, surrounded by ancient podocarp forest.
Tasman Sea Coastline
The wild, rugged West Coast beach and the crashing surf of the Tasman Sea appearing upon arrival.
The right side is excellent for seeing the specific geography of Arthur's Pass. It is often less shadowed in the late afternoon. Watch for the dramatic 'rain shadow' effect where the dry eastern landscape suddenly transforms into the lush, deep green rainforest of the West Coast. This side also offers a better view of Lake Brunner if the flight path tracks slightly north.
Book Hotels in HokitikaDistance: 152 km (94 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: HKK (-42.713600158691406, 170.98500061035156)
Route Type: Domestic
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