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ZQN → CHC
Which side of the plane to sit from Queenstown International Airport (Queenstown International) to Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Southern Alps, including New Zealand's highest peaks and the stunning turquoise glacial lakes of the Mackenzie Basin.
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Mount Cook (Aoraki)
Unrivaled views of New Zealand's tallest peak and its surrounding snow-capped giants.
Lake Pukaki
Witness the incredible milky-blue color of this glacial lake as you fly north.
Tasman Glacier
View the largest glacier in New Zealand winding through the high mountain valleys.
Southern Alps Spine
Continuous panoramic views of the rugged mountain range that defines the South Island.
Lake Tekapo
Look for the vibrant blue waters and the small Church of the Good Shepherd on the shoreline.
Sit on the left (usually Seat A) for the best mountain views. Aim for a morning flight for the clearest air and to have the sun behind you, illuminating the peaks. Watch for the dramatic shift from jagged mountains to the flat Canterbury Plains as you begin your descent.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for New ZealandLake Wakatipu
Stunning views of the lake's S-shape and the township of Queenstown immediately after takeoff.
Central Otago Ranges
The golden, rolling hills and deep river valleys of the Otago region.
Canterbury Plains
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields stretching toward the horizon.
Pegasus Bay
On approach to CHC, the coastline and the Pacific Ocean come into view.
The right side is excellent for departure views of Queenstown and the high-country landscape. In winter, the snow-covered rolling hills of Central Otago are particularly beautiful. On the final approach, look out for the unique geography of Banks Peninsula if the flight path swings south.
Book Hotels in ChristchurchDistance: 347 km (216 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: ZQN (-45.0210990906, 168.738998413)
Arrival: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Route Type: Domestic
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