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IVC destination photo
CHC destination photo

IVCCHC

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the Southern Alps, providing spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and the distinctive turquoise glacial lakes of the Mackenzie Basin.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Southern Alps

Continuous views of the South Island's mountainous backbone throughout the flight.

❄️

Aoraki/Mount Cook

New Zealand's tallest peak is often visible in the distance on the western horizon during clear weather.

💎

Glacial Lakes

Spot the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki to the northwest mid-flight.

🚜

Canterbury Plains

The geometric patchwork of agricultural land stretching between the mountains and the sea.

🌄

Hunter Hills

Rolling foothills that mark the transition from the rugged interior to the coastal plains.

Book an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the western faces of the Alps. On a clear day, the contrast between the milky-blue glacial lakes and the white snow is breathtaking. Ensure you have a window seat away from the wing for the best mountain panoramas.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Pacific Coastline

Expansive views of the rugged South Island east coast and the vast Pacific Ocean.

💧

Waitaki River Delta

A massive braided river system entering the sea with intricate silt and sediment patterns.

🌋

Banks Peninsula

The dramatic volcanic landforms of Akaroa and Lyttelton visible during the descent into Christchurch.

🏖️

Canterbury Bight

The long, sweeping shingle beaches stretching hundreds of kilometers north toward the city.

🏙️

Christchurch Urban Area

Aerial views of the 'Garden City' and the Canterbury estuary just before touchdown.

Morning travelers should choose the right side to enjoy the sunrise over the Pacific. This side is particularly rewarding during the final 15 minutes of the flight as the aircraft skirts the edge of the volcanic Banks Peninsula.

Top Activities in Christchurch
Route Information

Distance: 464 km (288 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 46 min

Departure: IVC (-46.41239929199219, 168.31300354003906)

Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)

Route Type: Domestic

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