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YVR → AKL
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Auckland International Airport (Auckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the premier view of Vancouver's North Shore mountains at takeoff and the spectacular Hauraki Gulf islands during the descent into Auckland.
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North Shore Mountains
Breathtaking views of the Lions and peaks of the Coast Mountains immediately after departing YVR.
Vancouver Skyline
A clear view of the downtown core, Stanley Park, and the Burrard Inlet during the initial climb.
Hauraki Gulf
Emerald waters and dozens of islands like Waiheke and Great Barrier Island on the approach to Auckland.
Rangitoto Island
The most iconic volcanic cone in Auckland, visible just minutes before touchdown.
Pacific Sunrise
As the flight heads southwest, the left side catches the first rays of light over the open ocean.
For the best mountain views at departure, ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing. Since most YVR-AKL flights depart in the late evening, the 'highlights' at the start will be city lights. However, the sunrise over the Pacific and the morning approach into Auckland make the left side superior for scenic arrival geography. Landing usually occurs in the early morning, so the lighting over the Hauraki Gulf is often soft and photogenic.
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Gulf Islands
Scenic views of the islands dotting the Salish Sea between Vancouver and Victoria.
Vancouver Island
A view of the rugged coastline and the southern tip of the island near Victoria.
Tasman Sea Coast
The wild west coast of New Zealand's North Island, including the Waitakere Ranges.
Open Ocean Sunset
Stunning, uninterrupted views of the sun dipping below the Pacific horizon shortly after takeoff.
The right side is excellent if you enjoy watching the sunset over the Pacific shortly after leaving the Canadian coast. On arrival in Auckland, if the wind is coming from the south, you might see the rugged black sand beaches of the west coast. Keep an eye out for the shadow of the plane on the water during the final descent into AKL.
Book Hotels in AucklandDistance: 11,361 km (7,059 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 22 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Route Type: International
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