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WLG → ROT
Which side of the plane to sit from Wellington International Airport (Wellington) to Rotorua Regional Airport (Rotorua)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers an unparalleled view of New Zealand's volcanic backbone, featuring the three major peaks of Tongariro National Park and the distant silhouette of Mount Taranaki.
Search flights from WLG to ROT
Kapiti Island
A glimpse of the rugged offshore nature reserve shortly after the flight turns north along the coastline.
Mount Taranaki
On clear days, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is visible in the far distance to the west.
Central Plateau
Breathtaking close-up views of Mount Ruapehu, the North Island's highest point, and its neighboring peaks.
Mount Ngauruhoe
The distinct, steep-sided cinder cone famously known as Mount Doom in cinema.
Lake Taupo
Aerial perspective of the western bays of the massive lake filling the caldera of the Taupo Volcano.
Choose the left side for the best volcanic scenery. Early morning flights are highly recommended as clouds often cluster around the mountain peaks by mid-afternoon. Watch for the volcanoes roughly 25 minutes into the flight.
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Wellington Harbour
A great view of the capital city and the narrow entrance to the harbor during the initial climb.
Tararua Ranges
The long, rugged mountain spine of the lower North Island stretching northward.
Kaimanawa Ranges
Expansive views of high-country wilderness and dense beech forests to the east of the flight path.
Lake Tarawera
One of the most scenic lakes in the Rotorua district, visible during the final descent.
Geothermal Plumes
Look for rising steam from the Whakarewarewa and Te Puia geothermal valleys as the plane nears the airport.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun over the Tasman Sea. It provides the best view of the Rotorua lakes district and the various geothermal vents during the approach to landing.
Book Hotels in RotoruaDistance: 380 km (236 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Arrival: ROT (-38.10919952392578, 176.31700134277344)
Route Type: Domestic
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