WLG → TRG

Southern Alps Glimpse

Looking back south across the Cook Strait, you can often see the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges.

Tongariro National Park

The dramatic peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom), and Mt Tongariro are the flight's crown jewels.

Lake Taupo

The plane flies almost directly alongside this massive caldera, New Zealand's largest freshwater lake.

Tauranga CBD

On final approach, you get a bird's-eye view of the city, the busy port, and the inner harbor.

Mount Maunganui (Mauao)

Depending on the wind direction and landing path, this iconic volcanic cone is often visible to the right.

Kapiti Island

A prominent bird sanctuary island sitting off the coast of the North Island shortly after takeoff.

Mount Taranaki

On clear days, the perfectly symmetrical cone of Taranaki is visible on the far western horizon.

Kaimai Ranges

Dense native forest-clad mountains that serve as the final geographic barrier before descending into Tauranga.

Matakana Island

A long, narrow island covered in pine plantations that shelters the Tauranga Harbour entrance.