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NSN β AKL
Which side of the plane to sit from Nelson Airport (Nelson) to Auckland International Airport (Auckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the iconic Mount Taranaki rising from the Tasman Sea and the stunning golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park immediately after takeoff.
Abel Tasman National Park
Aerial views of the turquoise waters and golden sand beaches along the northern tip of the South Island.
Farewell Spit
The long, curving natural sand spit at the northwestern extremity of the South Island is often visible on clear days.
Mount Taranaki
A breathtaking view of the near-perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone standing alone on the North Island's west coast.
Tasman Sea Coastline
Follow the rugged limestone cliffs and wild surf beaches of the Waitomo and Kawhia regions.
Manukau Heads
The dramatic and narrow entrance to the Manukau Harbour as you approach Auckland Airport from the south.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the slopes of Mt Taranaki. During winter, the snow-capped peak of the volcano is a major highlight. If the flight path takes a more westerly route, you will get a closer look at the intricate coastline of the Waikato region.
Marlborough Sounds
A stunning perspective of the complex network of sunken river valleys and forested peninsulas.
Cook Strait
The turbulent stretch of water separating the North and South Islands, often dotted with inter-island ferries.
Kapiti Island
A prominent offshore nature reserve located just off the coast of the lower North Island.
Tongariro National Park
On clear days, the distant peaks of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe are visible in the island's interior.
Waikato River
New Zealand's longest river as it meanders through the green farmland of the Waikato plains.
The right side is best for seeing the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds shortly after departure. If flying in the late afternoon, this side experiences the 'golden hour' glow over the North Island's interior. As most regional aircraft (ATR/Q300) have high wings, any seat provides a decent view, but window seats behind the wing offer the clearest downward visibility.
Distance: 496 km (308 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: NSN (-41.298301696777344, 173.2209930419922)
Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Route Type: Domestic
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