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WLG → NPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Wellington International Airport (Wellington) to Hawke's Bay Airport (NAPIER)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the rugged Wairarapa coastline, the iconic Cape Kidnappers, and a stunning aerial view of Napier's city center and port during the final approach.
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Cook Strait & South Island
Stunning views across the strait toward the Marlborough Sounds if the plane departs southward before turning.
Lake Wairarapa
The largest wetland system in the lower North Island, reflecting the sky and surrounded by lush pastoral land.
Wairarapa Coastline
Rugged, wave-battered cliffs and remote beaches that define the southeastern edge of the North Island.
Cape Kidnappers
The dramatic, jagged sandstone cliffs and the world-renowned gannet colony visible just before the descent into Napier.
Napier Port & Marine Parade
A bird's-eye view of the Art Deco city, the bustling shipping port, and the distinctive Norfolk pines lining the shore.
The right side is essential for the iconic 'Cape Kidnappers' view. For morning flights, this side will be quite sunny, so bring sunglasses. The approach into Napier is often low over the water, providing a great sense of speed and scale of the Hawke's Bay coastline. Use a window seat behind the wing on the ATR-72 or Q300 to avoid engine obstruction.
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Wellington City & Harbour
Panoramic views of the capital city, the Beehive, and the sparkling inner harbour immediately after departure.
Remutaka & Tararua Ranges
Dense native bush and the rolling ridgelines of the forest parks that separate Wellington from the Wairarapa plains.
Manawatu Plains
Expansive green farmlands stretching toward the western horizon as the aircraft tracks northeast.
Mount Ruapehu (Distance)
On exceptionally clear days, the snow-capped volcanic peak of the Central Plateau is visible far to the northwest.
Sit on the left for the best views of Wellington's urban layout during takeoff. This side is also preferred if you want to catch a glimpse of the distant Southern Alps across the Cook Strait during the initial climb. Late afternoon flights provide excellent lighting on the mountain ranges without the direct sun glare common on the right side.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandDistance: 271 km (168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Arrival: NPE (-39.465801, 176.869995)
Route Type: Domestic
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