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NPE → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Hawke's Bay Airport (NAPIER) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a dramatic perspective of the North Island's central mountain spine and the iconic Kapiti Coast, offering views of the South Island on clear days.
Ruahine Range
The sharp, forested ridges forming the southern backbone of the North Island's mountain chain.
Tararua Forest Park
Dense native bush and high-altitude tussock lands that are often shrouded in dramatic clouds.
Kapiti Island
A prominent offshore bird sanctuary and landmark visible as the plane begins its descent.
Cook Strait
The narrow, choppy stretch of water separating New Zealand's North and South Islands.
Kaikoura Ranges
On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the South Island are visible across the strait.
The right side is superior for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers the best views of the Tararua Ranges and the iconic Kapiti Island. If the flight approaches Wellington from the north over the city, you will get an incredible view of the CBD and the Beehive.
Cape Kidnappers
Famous sandstone cliffs and the world's largest mainland gannet colony visible shortly after takeoff.
Wairarapa Farmland
A patchwork of green pastures and vineyards stretching across the fertile Wairarapa valley.
Lake Wairarapa
The vast, shallow waters of the North Island's third-largest lake system near the southern coast.
Palliser Bay
The rugged, windswept coastline where the southern Wairarapa meets the turbulent Pacific Ocean.
Wellington Harbour
Entry through 'The Heads' showing the Pencarrow Head lighthouse and the harbor entrance.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to see the sun rising over the Pacific. Keep your camera ready immediately after departure from Napier to catch the distinct shape of Cape Kidnappers. During the descent into WLG, you will see the eastern suburbs and the rugged south coast cliffs.
Distance: 271 km (168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: NPE (-39.465801, 176.869995)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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