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PMR → HLZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Palmerston North Airport (Palmerston North) to Hamilton International Airport (Hamilton)?
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.
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.
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.
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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