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DUD → CHC
Which side of the plane to sit from Dunedin Airport (Dunedin) to Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Southern Alps and the iconic braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains.
Southern Alps
Continuous views of the snow-capped mountain range running parallel to the flight path.
Canterbury Plains
A vast, multi-colored patchwork of agricultural fields and livestock paddocks.
Braided Rivers
The Waitaki and Rakaia rivers display unique, shifting gravel patterns from above.
Aoraki/Mount Cook
On clear days, New Zealand's highest peak is visible in the distant northwest.
Choose seat A or B for the best mountain panoramas. Early morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, providing perfect lighting for photography without glare. During winter, the snow coverage on the Southern Alps is most dramatic.
Pacific Ocean
Expansive views of the deep blue sea meeting the horizon.
Timaru Port
Aerial perspective of Caroline Bay and the industrial shipping activity at PrimePort.
Banks Peninsula
The rugged, circular volcanic landform becomes visible as you approach Christchurch.
Otago Peninsula
Great views of Taiaroa Head and the rugged Dunedin coastline immediately after takeoff.
Sit on the right (starboard) for coastal views and the approach into Christchurch. This side is better in the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the setting sun over the mountains. Look out for the Moeraki Boulders coastline shortly after departing Dunedin.
Distance: 328 km (204 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 33 min
Departure: DUD (-45.9281005859375, 170.197998046875)
Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Route Type: Domestic
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