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CHC → PPQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Paraparaumu Airport (Paraparaumu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is the winner for this coastal hop, offering unparalleled views of the Kaikoura Peninsula's unique geology and the dramatic turquoise waters where the continental shelf drops away, though the Left Side is essential for those wanting a close-up of Kapiti Island.
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Pegasus Bay
The sweeping curve of the coastline stretching from Banks Peninsula up towards the Hurunui district.
Kaikoura Peninsula
A highlight of the trip, featuring the limestone headland and the deep blue waters famous for whale sightings.
Marlborough Coast
Views of the salt works at Lake Grassmere and the rugged eastern entrance to the Cook Strait.
Kapiti Coastline
The golden sands and coastal settlements of the North Island as the plane crosses the strait.
Sit on the right for the best coastal photography. The Kaikoura Peninsula is best viewed from this side roughly 20-25 minutes into the flight. If the sun is in the east during a morning flight, the sea will shimmer, making for dramatic high-contrast photos of the Pacific Ocean and the Marlborough coastline.
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Southern Alps
Panoramic views of the snow-capped spine of the South Island visible to the west throughout the flight.
Canterbury Plains
The intricate patchwork of agricultural land and braided river systems immediately following takeoff.
Seaward Kaikoura Range
Rugged, towering mountain peaks that rise abruptly from the ocean as you head north.
Kapiti Island
A spectacular bird's-eye view of the predator-free nature reserve during the descent into Paraparaumu.
The left side is mandatory for anyone wishing to see Kapiti Island in detail, as it sits directly off the coast during your final approach. For morning flights, this side receives direct sunlight, which is perfect for highlighting the textures of the Southern Alps but can cause glare on the window.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 351 km (218 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: PPQ (-40.90470123291016, 174.98899841308594)
Route Type: Domestic
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