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NPL → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from New Plymouth Airport (New Plymouth) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic North Island coastline, offering an immediate view of Mount Taranaki followed by Kapiti Island and the approach into the capital.
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Mount Taranaki
The perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone dominates the landscape immediately after takeoff from New Plymouth.
South Taranaki Bight
Scenic views of the rugged coastline and black sand beaches stretching south toward Whanganui.
Kapiti Island
A renowned bird sanctuary island that appears as a distinct, steep silhouette off the coast during descent.
Porirua Harbour
Aerial views of the Pauatahanui Inlet and the intricate residential layouts of the northern Wellington suburbs.
Wellington City
A stunning perspective of the CBD, the Beehive, and the inner harbor as the aircraft turns for final approach.
For the most dramatic views of Mount Taranaki, choose a morning flight to catch the early sun hitting the eastern slopes. If the flight departs to the south, the left side offers an immediate and uninterrupted view of the mountain's crater and snowy peak. Avoid seats directly over the wing to maintain a clear line of sight to the coastline below.
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Tasman Sea
Vast blue horizons and white-capped waves where the Tasman Sea meets the South Pacific.
Marlborough Sounds
Across the Cook Strait, the intricate network of drowned river valleys at the top of the South Island is visible.
Cook Strait
The narrow, often turbulent stretch of water that separates New Zealand's North and South Islands.
Kaikoura Ranges
On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Inland and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges are visible in the far distance.
West Wind Farm
Dozens of large wind turbines spinning on the rugged hills of Terawhiti Station near the Wellington coast.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Tasman Sea. On exceptionally clear days, this side offers the best chance to spot the South Island's mountainous terrain. During the final approach into Wellington (if landing from the south), keep an eye out for the Interislander ferries crossing the strait.
Book Hotels in WellingtonDistance: 263 km (163 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: NPL (-39.00859832763672, 174.1790008544922)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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