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MEL → AKL
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Auckland International Airport (Auckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic scenery, featuring the sweeping Gippsland coastline of Australia and the iconic, perfectly conical peak of Mount Taranaki as you approach the New Zealand coast.
Melbourne Skyline
Views of the Yarra River and the Melbourne CBD skyline immediately after takeoff depending on the departure path.
Gippsland Coastline
The rugged and beautiful eastern Victorian coast as the aircraft transitions from land to the Tasman Sea.
Mount Taranaki
The stunning, snow-capped dormant volcano is often visible to the south when crossing the New Zealand coastline.
Waikato River
New Zealand's longest river winding through lush green dairy pastures during the initial descent.
Manukau Harbour
The vast, shallow waters of Auckland's western harbor visible just before touchdown at AKL.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to have the sun behind you for better visibility. Mount Taranaki is the star of this route; it usually appears about 30 to 45 minutes before arrival. Keep your camera ready as you pass the New Zealand coastline, as the contrast between the Tasman Sea and the green hills is striking.
Port Phillip Bay
A wide view of the bay and the Mornington Peninsula as the aircraft climbs out of Melbourne.
Bass Strait
The turbulent waters between mainland Australia and Tasmania, often dotted with cargo ships.
Piha and West Coast Beaches
The famous black sand beaches of Auckland's west coast are often visible during the arrival circuit.
Auckland CBD
A clear view of the Sky Tower and downtown Auckland if the flight approaches from the north.
Hauraki Gulf
The sparkling waters and islands of the gulf can be seen if the aircraft loops around for a southern approach.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. If the wind dictates an approach from the north, this side provides the best views of the Auckland city center. Watch for the distinctive black sands of the Waitakere Ranges coastline as you descend.
Distance: 2,637 km (1,639 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 31 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Route Type: International
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