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WLG → WRE
Which side of the plane to sit from Wellington International Airport (Wellington) to Whangarei Airport (Whangarei)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior view of the iconic Mt. Taranaki cone and the rugged western coastline of the North Island, including the massive Kaipara Harbour.
Kapiti Island
A prominent nature reserve and bird sanctuary visible shortly after departing Wellington.
Mt. Taranaki
The nearly perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is the star of the flight on a clear day.
Manukau Harbour
View the intricate sandbars and tidal patterns of Auckland's massive western harbour.
Waitakere Ranges
Lush native rainforest meeting the Tasman Sea on the western outskirts of Auckland.
Kaipara Harbour
One of the largest enclosed harbours in the world, featuring a complex, branching coastline.
The left side is unbeatable for seeing Mt. Taranaki, usually visible about 25 minutes into the flight. Morning flights are best to avoid the afternoon sun glare reflecting off the Tasman Sea. On the descent, look for the unique patterns of the Kaipara mudflats.
Wellington City
A fantastic view of the CBD, the Beehive, and the harbour immediately after takeoff.
Tongariro National Park
Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro volcanoes are often visible in the distance across the island.
Auckland Skyline
A great perspective of the Sky Tower and the dense urban landscape of the Auckland isthmus.
Rangitoto Island
The iconic volcanic shield island sitting prominently in the Hauraki Gulf.
Whangarei Harbour
The approach into WRE often features the dramatic limestone peaks of Mt. Manaia.
Select the right side if you prefer seeing the urban sprawl of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. This side is particularly scenic during the final approach into Whangarei, as you glide over Bream Bay. Afternoon flights offer better lighting for the central volcanoes in the distance.
Distance: 619 km (385 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Arrival: WRE (-35.7682991027832, 174.36500549316406)
Route Type: Domestic
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