Loading map...

CHC destination photo
NPL destination photo

CHCNPL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior approach experience, offering a direct and often close-up view of the perfectly symmetrical Mount Taranaki as the aircraft descends towards New Plymouth.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Southern Alps

Distal views of the rugged backbone of the South Island during the initial climb from Christchurch.

🏞️

Nelson Lakes

Glimpses of the alpine lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa nestled within the northern South Island ranges.

🌊

Tasman Bay

Deep blue waters and the distant golden coastlines of the Abel Tasman National Park.

🌋

Mount Taranaki

The star of the route; a massive, snow-capped volcanic cone that dominates the horizon on the approach.

🌲

Egmont National Park

The distinct circular boundary of the dark green kamahi forest surrounding the mountain.

Book a window seat on the left to capture the iconic view of Mount Taranaki. Morning flights are recommended as the mountain is often clear of its afternoon cloud cap. Ensure your camera is ready about 15 minutes before landing as the descent brings you quite close to the volcanic peak.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

Pegasus Bay

The long, sweeping curve of the Canterbury coastline immediately after takeoff.

🐋

Kaikoura Peninsula

The dramatic limestone peninsula where the deep ocean trenches meet the Seaward Kaikoura Range.

🚤

Marlborough Sounds

An intricate network of ancient sunken river valleys, turquoise bays, and forested ridges.

⛴️

Cook Strait

The narrow body of water separating the North and South Islands, often dotted with ferries.

🏝️

Kapiti Island

A prominent nature reserve island located just off the coast of the lower North Island.

The right side is excellent for viewing the Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikoura coast. It is often the sunnier side during afternoon flights heading north, which can create glare, so mid-morning is the ideal time for photography on this side.

Top Activities in New Plymouth
Route Information

Distance: 517 km (321 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)

Arrival: NPL (-39.00859832763672, 174.1790008544922)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.