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ZQN → WLG
Which side of the plane to sit from Queenstown International Airport (Queenstown International) to Wellington International Airport (Wellington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the premier choice for this route, offering a spectacular, close-up parade of the Southern Alps and a magnificent view of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand.
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Lake Wakatipu
A stunning perspective of the lightning-bolt-shaped lake immediately following the steep Queenstown ascent.
The Southern Alps
An unbroken chain of snow-capped mountains that forms the dramatic spine of the South Island.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
The crown jewel of the flight, this 3,724-meter peak is clearly visible on the left side roughly 15-20 minutes after takeoff.
Southern Glaciers
Distant glimpses of the massive ice fields and glacial systems flowing toward the West Coast.
Kapiti Coast
As the plane crosses the Cook Strait, the rugged coastline of the lower North Island comes into view.
For the best visibility of the mountain peaks, book a morning flight when the air is generally crisper and less prone to convective cloud buildup. Ensure your seat is in front of or behind the wing (rows 1-8 or 20+) to avoid obstructing the view of the Southern Alps.
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The Remarkables
The iconic, jagged mountain range that borders the Queenstown basin, seen during the initial banking turn.
Central Otago Lakes
Views of Lake Dunstan and the Kawarau River snaking through the world-famous Pinot Noir wine region.
Seaward Kaikoura Range
Where the mountains meet the sea, these snow-dusted peaks line the eastern coast of the South Island.
Marlborough Sounds
A breathtaking network of ancient sunken river valleys and turquoise waterways near the top of the island.
Wellington Harbour
A perfect view of the capital city and the narrow entrance to the harbor during the final approach.
The right side is particularly rewarding during the descent into Wellington. You will have a better view of the Interislander ferries crossing the Cook Strait. If the wind is blowing from the north (the 'Northerly' approach), the right side offers a direct look at the city center during landing.
Book Hotels in WellingtonDistance: 641 km (398 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min
Departure: ZQN (-45.0210990906, 168.738998413)
Arrival: WLG (-41.3272018433, 174.80499267599998)
Route Type: Domestic
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