Auckland to Melbourne is 1,622 miles (2,610 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
Right-side seats offer superior scenery on both legs: volcanic landscapes and harbour views during Auckland departure, plus unobstructed views of the Tasman Sea crossing and approach to Victoria's coastline. Left seats have good landing views but less dramatic takeoff scenery.
Flight Path
Tasman Sea (open water with no landmarks), Cook Strait region (if visible at altitude), New Zealand's North Island western coastline receding behind, Australian coastline approaching with Victorian coastal features including Port Campbell area and limestone cliffs, Bass Strait waters
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AKL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Auckland's urban sprawl and the Waitemata Harbour as the aircraft climbs westward. You'll see the city grid, waterfront, and surrounding volcanic cones receding below.
Landing at MBW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne's urban landscape during descent into Moorabbin. You'll see the bay's distinctive shape, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the city sprawl approaching.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Melbourne. Right-side seats offer superior scenery on both legs: volcanic landscapes and harbour views during Auckland departure, plus unobstructed views of the Tasman Sea crossing and approach to Victoria's coastline. Left seats have good landing views but less dramatic takeoff scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from Auckland International in Auckland?
During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Auckland's urban sprawl and the Waitemata Harbour as the aircraft climbs westward. You'll see the city grid, waterfront, and surrounding volcanic cones receding below. Notable sights include: Waitemata Harbour, Auckland city center and suburbs, Rangitoto Island (volcanic cone), Hauraki Gulf coastline.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne Moorabbin in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne's urban landscape during descent into Moorabbin. You'll see the bay's distinctive shape, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the city sprawl approaching. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges (forested ridgeline), Melbourne CBD and suburbs, Yarra River valley.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Melbourne?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,622 miles (2,610 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Auckland to Melbourne flight path pass over?
Tasman Sea (open water with no landmarks), Cook Strait region (if visible at altitude), New Zealand's North Island western coastline receding behind, Australian coastline approaching with Victorian coastal features including Port Campbell area and limestone cliffs, Bass Strait waters