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WLG → HLZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Wellington International Airport (Wellington) to Hamilton International Airport (Hamilton)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of New Zealand's volcanic heart, including the massive peaks of Tongariro National Park and the vast expanse of Lake Taupo.
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Wellington City
A breathtaking aerial view of the capital city, the harbour, and the surrounding steep hills immediately after takeoff.
Mt. Ruapehu
The North Island's highest peak, a massive active volcano often covered in snow year-round.
Mt. Ngauruhoe
The perfectly formed volcanic cone famously known as 'Mount Doom' in the Lord of the Rings films.
Lake Taupo
New Zealand's largest lake, a giant caldera formed by a massive prehistoric eruption.
Waikato River
The winding path of New Zealand's longest river as it snakes through the hydro dams and towards Hamilton.
This is the premier side for geography enthusiasts. The volcanic plateau typically appears 20-30 minutes into the flight. For the best photography of the volcanoes, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the mountains. Look for the steam vents on Mt. Tongariro on particularly clear days.
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Kapiti Island
A prominent bird sanctuary and nature reserve appearing shortly after departure from Wellington.
Tasman Sea Coastline
Stunning views of the rugged west coast beaches and the turquoise waters of the Kapiti Coast.
Mt. Taranaki
The iconic, symmetrical volcanic cone often visible in the distance across the sea on clear days.
Waikato Farmland
The lush, rolling green pastures of the King Country and Waikato region during the descent.
Sit on the left for sunset views over the Tasman Sea during evening flights. Keep an eye out for Mt. Taranaki early in the flight; it is a distant but unmistakable landmark on the western horizon. Morning flights on this side avoid the direct sun glare from the east.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 387 km (240 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Arrival: HLZ (-37.8666992188, 175.332000732)
Route Type: Domestic
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