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MEL → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the Marlborough Sounds and the rugged northern tip of the South Island during the descent into Wellington.
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Phillip Island
Spot the famous Grand Prix circuit and the rugged Victorian coastline during departure.
Southern Alps
On very clear days, the distant snowy peaks of the South Island may be visible across the water.
Marlborough Sounds
A breathtaking maze of turquoise sea-drowned valleys and emerald peninsulas.
Cook Strait
Watch the Interislander ferries crossing the turbulent waters between the two islands.
Wellington Harbour
A stunning view of the circular harbor and the city nestled into the steep hillsides.
The right side is the clear winner for the descent. As the plane crosses the Cook Strait, you get a front-row seat to the Marlborough Sounds. Try to book a window seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the intricate coastline. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for photography on this side.
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Melbourne Skyline
Clear views of the CBD, Docklands, and Port Phillip Bay shortly after takeoff.
Mornington Peninsula
Vistas of the holiday towns and sandy beaches stretching along the eastern bay.
Tasman Sea
The vast expanse of the Tasman Sea, often featuring impressive cloud formations.
Kapiti Island
A prominent nature reserve island visible just off the coast as you reach New Zealand.
Wellington Hills
The dense, green suburban valleys of the northern Wellington region during final approach.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Melbourne CBD if the flight departs to the south. During arrival, the left side provides a better perspective of the North Island's Kapiti Coastline. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the sun's glare on this side of the aircraft.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 2,589 km (1,609 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 27 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: International
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