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WLG → PMR
Which side of the plane to sit from Wellington International Airport (Wellington) to Palmerston North Airport (Palmerston North)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning visual progression from Wellington's rugged harbour entrance to the iconic Kapiti Island and the sweeping white-sand beaches of the Kapiti Coast.
Search flights from WLG to PMR
Wellington Harbour
A panoramic view of the capital city, the stadium, and the steep hills surrounding the inner harbour immediately after departure.
Mana Island
A clear view of this scientific reserve and its flat-topped profile as the aircraft tracks north along the coast.
Kapiti Island
The most prominent landmark on this route, this predator-free sanctuary rises steeply from the Tasman Sea.
Kapiti Coastline
Stunning vistas of the coastline stretching from Paraparaumu to Levin, featuring long stretches of sandy beach.
Manawatu River Mouth
The winding entrance of the Manawatu River at Foxton Beach, showing distinct sediment patterns in the sea.
Choose the left side for coastal and sea views. Late afternoon flights are particularly scenic as the sun sets over the Tasman Sea, casting a golden glow on the water. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the plane banks north, providing a perfect angle of the Wellington CBD.
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Hutt Valley
An aerial perspective of Lower and Upper Hutt nested between the steep hills of the Akatarawa and Rimutaka ranges.
Tararua Range
The rugged, often cloud-capped mountains that form the backbone of the lower North Island, featuring dense native bush.
Manawatu Plains
The transition from rugged mountains to the highly productive, geometric patchwork of the Manawatu farmlands.
Manawatu Gorge
A glimpse of the famous geological divide where the Manawatu River has carved a path through the mountain ranges.
The right side is best for mountain lovers. In winter, look for snow on the high peaks of the Tararuas. Morning flights are superior here as the rising sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the mountains, though be aware that the sun may be directly in your eyes depending on the exact flight heading.
Book Hotels in Palmerston NorthDistance: 131 km (81 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 min
Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Arrival: PMR (-40.32059860229492, 175.61700439453125)
Route Type: Domestic
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