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IVC → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Invercargill Airport (Invercargill) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the South Island's rugged interior, the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges, and the intricate, emerald-watered Marlborough Sounds before touchdown.
Southern Alps
Distant but majestic views of New Zealand's highest mountain range stretching across the horizon.
Canterbury Plains
A vast, geometric patchwork of agricultural land viewed as the plane cruises northward.
Seaward Kaikoura Range
Dramatic, snow-dusted peaks that drop sharply toward the Pacific coastline.
Marlborough Sounds
A stunning labyrinth of sunken river valleys and forested peninsulas at the top of the South Island.
Wellington CBD
Sweeping views of the capital city's harbor and skyline during the final approach into WLG.
Sit on the left for the most scenic experience. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east. Keep your camera ready roughly 15 minutes before landing to capture the Marlborough Sounds. If the wind is from the south, you'll get a spectacular low-level view of the city center.
Foveaux Strait
Views of the wild waters separating the South Island from Stewart Island immediately after takeoff.
Banks Peninsula
The unique, circular volcanic landforms of Akaroa and Lyttelton jutting into the sea.
Cook Strait
Watch for the Interislander ferries crossing one of the world's roughest stretches of water.
Pencarrow Head
The rugged eastern entrance to Wellington Harbour, featuring New Zealand's first permanent lighthouse.
Otago Coastline
Rugged cliffs and secluded beaches visible during the initial climb out of the deep south.
The right side is best for those who enjoy vast ocean horizons and coastal geography. It is particularly beautiful during late afternoon flights when the sun sets behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the Pacific. If landing from the north, you will see the rugged South Coast of the North Island.
Distance: 768 km (477 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: IVC (-46.41239929199219, 168.31300354003906)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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