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ROT → CHC
Which side of the plane to sit from Rotorua Regional Airport (Rotorua) to Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the North Island's volcanic peaks and the dramatic alpine ridges of the South Island's Kaikoura Ranges.
Search flights from ROT to CHC
Mount Ruapehu
The highest peak in the North Island, often snow-capped, featuring active craters and ski fields.
Mount Ngauruhoe
The perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone famous for its role as Mount Doom in cinema.
Marlborough Sounds
A stunning network of sea-drowned valleys and lush green ridges at the tip of the South Island.
Kaikoura Ranges
The Seaward Kaikoura Range offers dramatic views of 2,500m peaks rising directly from the sea.
Canterbury Plains
The vast, geometric patchwork of agricultural land and braided riverbeds like the Waimakariri.
This is the premier side for volcanic enthusiasts; you will pass directly west of Tongariro National Park. In winter, the snow-covered Kaikoura Ranges are a major highlight. Request a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the mountain peaks. Mid-day flights offer the best overhead lighting for the vivid colors of the Marlborough Sounds.
Book Hotels in ChristchurchLake Rotorua
Immediate views of the circular caldera and Mokoia Island upon takeoff from ROT.
Wellington Harbour
A glimpse of the capital city and its surrounding hills as you cross the Cook Strait.
Kaikoura Coastline
Views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean where the continental shelf drops off close to shore.
Banks Peninsula
The ancient volcanic remnants and deep harbors of Akaroa visible during the descent into CHC.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Pacific coastline. This side provides a better perspective of Wellington city and the intricate geometry of the Banks Peninsula on the final approach into Christchurch. Keep an eye out for the turquoise braided rivers crossing the plains.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 678 km (421 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: ROT (-38.10919952392578, 176.31700134277344)
Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Route Type: Domestic
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