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PMR destination photo
HLZ destination photo

PMRHLZ

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the Central Plateau's volcanic giants, including Mount Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro, alongside the vast expanse of Lake Taupo.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Ruahine Range

The steep, forest-covered mountains that form the backbone of the southern North Island.

🌋

Tongariro National Park

A world-class view of the three active volcanoes: Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro.

💧

Lake Taupo

The massive water-filled caldera, New Zealand's largest lake, visible shortly after the volcanoes.

💨

Wairakei Geothermal Field

Look for plumes of steam rising from the geothermal power plants north of Taupo.

🚤

Waikato River

Trace the start of New Zealand's longest river as it exits Lake Taupo and flows north.

The right side is the premium choice for this route. For the best experience, choose a window seat mid-flight to see the 'Lord of the Rings' scenery of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom). Winter flights provide stunning views of snow-capped peaks, while morning flights offer the best lighting on the volcanic slopes.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌾

Manawatu Plains

The expansive, flat patchwork of fertile farmland immediately north of Palmerston North.

🌊

South Taranaki Bight

Glances of the rugged western coastline and the Tasman Sea in the distance.

🏔️

Mount Taranaki

On clear days, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is visible far to the west.

🌳

King Country

The rolling limestone hills and dense native bush characteristic of the Waitomo region.

🐄

Waikato Basin

Lush green dairy country and the winding path of the Waikato River during the descent.

Sit on the left if you are flying in the late afternoon or evening to witness the silhouette of Mount Taranaki against the sunset. This side also offers better views of the rugged King Country terrain and the western edges of the Waikato farmlands as you approach Hamilton.

Top Activities in Hamilton
Route Information

Distance: 274 km (170 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: PMR (-40.32059860229492, 175.61700439453125)

Arrival: HLZ (-37.8666992188, 175.332000732)

Route Type: Domestic

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