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WLG destination photo
BNE destination photo

WLGBNE

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of New Zealand's rugged coastline and the Marlborough Sounds immediately after takeoff, followed by a panoramic approach over the Gold Coast and Moreton Bay.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Wellington City & Harbor

Spectacular views of the NZ capital, the Beehive, and the deep blue harbor immediately after departing WLG.

🌊

Marlborough Sounds

An incredible aerial perspective of the intricate waterways and forested peninsulas at the top of the South Island.

🏖️

Gold Coast Beaches

As the plane approaches Australia, look for the long stretches of white sand and the Surfers Paradise skyline.

🐬

Moreton Bay Marine Park

Stunning views of the turquoise waters, sandbanks, and islands just before touching down in Brisbane.

🌉

Brisbane River

Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the winding river and the city's suburban sprawl.

For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Marlborough Sounds. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the Australian coastline isn't obstructed during the descent. This side is consistently better for the initial 15 minutes of the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Kapiti Island

A prominent nature reserve island visible off the coast shortly after the aircraft turns north-west.

🌋

Mount Taranaki

On very clear days, the symmetrical volcanic cone can be seen in the distance to the north.

🌅

Tasman Sunset

On late afternoon flights, this side provides front-row seats to the sun dipping below the ocean horizon.

🏜️

Moreton Island

Dramatic views of the massive sand dunes and the Tangalooma Wrecks if the flight path enters from the north.

⛰️

Glass House Mountains

Unique volcanic plugs rising from the Sunshine Coast hinterland visible during a northern approach.

The right side is the 'sunset side' for afternoon flights. Keep an eye out about 20 minutes after takeoff for a distant glimpse of Mt Taranaki. If the winds dictate a northern approach into Brisbane, the right side becomes superior for viewing the Glass House Mountains.

Top Activities in Brisbane
Route Information

Distance: 2,511 km (1,560 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min

Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)

Arrival: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)

Route Type: International

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