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CHC → TRG
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Tauranga Airport (Tauranga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the South Island's mountainous spine and the dramatic volcanic plateau of the North Island, including Lake Taupo and the Central Plateau volcanoes.
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Southern Alps
Views of the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges and the distant main divide of the Southern Alps.
Marlborough Sounds
Intricate coastal waterways and forested ridges at the northern tip of the South Island.
Central Plateau
Distant views of the active volcanoes Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Tongariro.
Lake Taupo
New Zealand's largest lake, formed in a massive volcanic caldera, visible during the North Island transit.
Kaimai Ranges
The rugged forest-covered mountain range that separates the Waikato from the Bay of Plenty.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to ensure unobstructed views of the volcanoes. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, providing excellent photographic contrast.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandBanks Peninsula
The volcanic remnants of Akaroa are visible immediately to the southeast after departing Christchurch.
Kaikoura Peninsula
Look down at the deep blue waters of the Kaikoura canyon, a world-famous spot for whale watching.
Wellington Harbour
A clear view of the capital city and its surrounding hills as you cross the Cook Strait.
Bay of Plenty Coastline
Long stretches of white sand beaches as the aircraft approaches the Tauranga region from the south.
Mount Maunganui
The iconic 'Mauao' extinct volcanic cone is a highlight during the final descent into Tauranga Airport.
The right side is best for the final approach into Tauranga, as Mount Maunganui often appears on this side during a standard landing pattern. Keep your camera ready for the coastal transition at the Cook Strait.
Book Hotels in TaurangaDistance: 717 km (446 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: TRG (-37.67190170288086, 176.1959991455078)
Route Type: Domestic
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