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TIU → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Timaru Airport (Timaru) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a consistent and dramatic panorama of the South Island's mountainous interior, including the Southern Alps and the Seaward Kaikōura Range, offering better geological variety than the ocean-facing right side.
Southern Alps
Distanced but impressive views of the snow-capped spine of the South Island shortly after departure.
Canterbury Plains
A vast patchwork of agricultural fields showing the classic New Zealand rural landscape.
Seaward Kaikōura Range
Stunning limestone and greywacke peaks that rise abruptly from the coast to over 2,500 meters.
Clarence River
The winding path of one of New Zealand's longest rivers as it carves through the rugged inland terrain.
Rimutaka Range
The forested ridges of the lower North Island appearing as the flight crosses the Cook Strait.
Choose an 'A' seat for the best mountain views. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, highlighting the textures of the Southern Alps. Look for Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance about 15 minutes after takeoff if the weather is clear.
Canterbury Bight
The long, sweeping shingle beach coastline stretching north from Timaru.
Banks Peninsula
The distinctive volcanic landform featuring Akaroa and Lyttelton harbours visible out to the east.
Pegasus Bay
The massive sandy arc of the coastline north of Christchurch.
Cook Strait
The iconic and often turbulent stretch of water connecting the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean.
Wellington City
A spectacular bird's-eye view of the CBD, Te Papa, and the hilly suburbs during the final descent into WLG.
An 'F' seat is best for coastal features. This side is particularly good for sunset flights as the light reflects off the Pacific Ocean. If the plane lands from the south (Runway 34), you will get an incredible view of Wellington Harbour and the city center just before touchdown.
Distance: 441 km (274 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 44 min
Departure: TIU (-44.30279922485352, 171.22500610351562)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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