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NSN destination photo
CHC destination photo

NSNCHC

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular vistas of the Nelson Lakes National Park and the high alpine terrain of the Southern Alps throughout the flight.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🛶

Nelson Lakes

Direct views of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa, two pristine alpine lakes nestled in deep glacial valleys.

🏔️

Spenser Mountains

A close-up look at the northern spine of the Southern Alps, often covered in snow year-round.

🌲

Lewis Pass Wilderness

Expansive views of the dense beech forests and protected alpine tussock lands of the Lewis Pass area.

🏔️

The Main Divide

Panoramic views of the Southern Alps stretching south toward Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance.

💧

Waimakariri River

The spectacular braided patterns of the Waimakariri River bed as the plane turns for its final approach.

The right side is superior for mountain lovers. Book an afternoon flight to see the sun setting behind the Southern Alps. For the best view of the Nelson Lakes, look out within the first 10-15 minutes after takeoff from Nelson.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Richmond Range

The rugged mountains immediately south of Nelson, providing an early look at the region's complex terrain.

🍷

Wairau Valley

Glances toward the Marlborough wine region and the upper reaches of the vast Wairau River system.

🏔️

Inland Kaikoura Range

Stunning distant views of Mount Tapuae-o-Ueneku, the highest peak in New Zealand outside the Main Divide.

🌊

Waiau River

Aerial perspective of the turquoise, braided river channels as the aircraft moves toward North Canterbury.

🚜

Canterbury Plains

The famous agricultural patchwork quilt appearance of the plains during the final descent into Christchurch.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun illuminate the Kaikoura ranges. Watch for the stark contrast between the dry hills of North Canterbury and the lush green irrigated paddocks as you approach Christchurch.

Top Activities in Christchurch
Route Information

Distance: 250 km (155 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: NSN (-41.298301696777344, 173.2209930419922)

Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)

Route Type: Domestic

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