Loading map...
NSN → CHC
Which side of the plane to sit from Nelson Airport (Nelson) to Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch)?
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.
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.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.