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WLG destination photo
AKL destination photo

WLGAKL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic peaks of Tongariro National Park and the vast waters of Lake Taupo, which are the highlights of the North Island flight path.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Wellington City

Immediate views of the capital's hilly suburbs and the sparkling harbor right after takeoff from WLG.

🏔️

Mt Ruapehu

The highest peak in the North Island, often snow-capped and featuring active volcanic craters.

🌋

Mt Ngauruhoe

The iconic perfectly-shaped volcanic cone famous for its role as Mount Doom in cinema.

🌊

Lake Taupo

Views across Australasia's largest freshwater lake, which sits inside a massive volcanic caldera.

🏝️

Hauraki Gulf

As the plane turns for its final approach, look for Rangitoto Island and the inner gulf islands.

The right side is the clear winner for mountain lovers. Book a morning flight to have the sun at your back, providing the best lighting for photography of the Central Plateau volcanoes. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of Mt Ruapehu and Lake Taupo is not obstructed by the engine or wing surface.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Kapiti Island

A prominent offshore nature reserve and bird sanctuary visible shortly after departing the Wellington coast.

🌋

Mt Taranaki

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

🌊

Waikato Coastline

Rugged black sand beaches and the wild Tasman Sea surf as the plane tracks north toward Auckland.

⚓

Manukau Harbour

Views of the Manukau Heads and the intricate tidal channels of Auckland's second largest harbor on descent.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sun reflecting off the Tasman Sea. It is also the best side for seeing the isolated peak of Mt Taranaki in the distance. When landing from the south, you will get a great look at the rugged West Coast beaches and the entrance to the Manukau Harbour.

Top Activities in Auckland
Route Information

Distance: 480 km (298 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 48 min

Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)

Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)

Route Type: Domestic

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