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TUO → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Taupo Airport (Taupo) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an elite viewing experience of New Zealand's volcanic heart, including direct views of the Tongariro National Park volcanoes and the stunning Kapiti Coast.
Mount Ngauruhoe
The iconic, near-perfect volcanic cone of Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Mount Ruapehu
The North Island's highest peak featuring active craters and the scenic Whakapapa ski fields.
Kapiti Island
A steep-sided offshore bird sanctuary that dominates the view as the flight reaches the coastline.
South Island Peaks
On clear days, the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges of the South Island are visible across the Cook Strait.
Wellington CBD
A stunning aerial view of the Beehive, Westpac Stadium, and the city center during the descent.
This is the premier side for photography. The volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park appear within the first 15 minutes of flight; have your camera ready immediately after takeoff. On exceptionally clear days, look further west to see the solitary peak of Mount Taranaki on the horizon. Landing in Wellington can be turbulent due to the 'Windy City' reputation, so secure your devices early.
Lake Taupo
A sweeping view of the massive volcanic caldera and the Taupo township immediately after departure.
Kaimanawa Ranges
Rugged, remote mountains famous for wild horses and dense native beech forests.
Tararua Wind Farms
Hundreds of white wind turbines lining the ridgelines of the southern ranges near Palmerston North.
Wellington Harbour
A perspective of the Petone shoreline and the Hutt Valley as the plane banks for its final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side provides a better look at the inland geography of the Rangitikei and the extensive wind farms that power the region. Watch for the dramatic Manawatu Gorge as you transition toward the southern coast.
Distance: 308 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: TUO (-38.73970031738281, 176.08399963378906)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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