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CHC → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds before descending into the capital.
Search flights from CHC to WLG
Southern Alps
Panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Main Divide stretching along the western horizon.
Seaward Kaikoura Range
Dramatic 2,500-meter peaks that rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean coastline.
Lake Grassmere
Bright pink salt evaporation ponds that create a surreal geometric landscape near the coast.
Marlborough Sounds
A stunning labyrinth of sunken river valleys, emerald green hills, and secluded blue bays.
Wellington City
Direct views of the Beehive, CBD, and the steep Victorian hillsides during a Runway 16 approach.
Book a window seat in the front or rear of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the Kaikoura Ranges. During winter, the snow coverage on the mountains is breathtaking. If the plane lands from the north (Runway 16), the left side provides the iconic view of the city and waterfront.
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Pegasus Bay
The vast, sweeping sandy curve of the Canterbury coastline immediately after takeoff from Christchurch.
Kaikoura Peninsula
A distinct limestone headland famous for whale watching and deep-sea marine life.
Cook Strait Ferries
Spot the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries navigating the narrow passage between the North and South Islands.
Wellington Harbour
Wide-angle views of the harbor entrance, Pencarrow Head, and the rugged Eastbourne coastline.
Choose the right side if you enjoy ocean vistas and want to see the North Island coastline early in the flight. This side is particularly scenic during late afternoon flights as the sun sets over the mountains to the west, casting a golden glow on the sea. Keep an eye out for the rugged 'Red Rocks' on the south coast just before touchdown.
Book Hotels in WellingtonDistance: 304 km (189 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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