The left side consistently delivers the flight's signature scenery: the Kaikoura mountains during climb-out and Wellington's harbour and skyline on final approach, while the right side is dominated by open ocean for most of the route.
Flown CHC to WLG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Christchurch to Wellington is 189 miles (304 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
Kaikoura coastline and Seaward Kaikoura Range, Cook Strait, Marlborough Sounds visible to the west before the North Island coast comes into view
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CHC
LEFTDeparting CHC on runway 02 the aircraft climbs north, putting the Canterbury foothills and the snow-streaked Seaward Kaikoura Range on the left, while the right side only shows flat plains fading into open Pacific water. The mountain side offers far more visual drama during the initial climb.
Landing at WLG
LEFTOn the more common northerly-wind approach into runway 34, the aircraft comes up from the south over Cook Strait and banks toward Wellington Harbour, putting the city's CBD skyline, Mount Victoria, and the harbour waters on the left side of the cabin. The right side mainly shows Miramar Peninsula's suburban streets and open Cook Strait.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Christchurch International (CHC) to Wellington International (WLG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Christchurch to Wellington. The left side consistently delivers the flight's signature scenery: the Kaikoura mountains during climb-out and Wellington's harbour and skyline on final approach, while the right side is dominated by open ocean for most of the route.
What can I see during takeoff from Christchurch International in Christchurch?
During takeoff from Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing CHC on runway 02 the aircraft climbs north, putting the Canterbury foothills and the snow-streaked Seaward Kaikoura Range on the left, while the right side only shows flat plains fading into open Pacific water. The mountain side offers far more visual drama during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Seaward Kaikoura Range, Southern Alps foothills, Waipara river valley, Canterbury Plains.
What can I see when landing at Wellington International in Wellington?
When landing at Wellington International (WLG), sit on the Left side for the best views. On the more common northerly-wind approach into runway 34, the aircraft comes up from the south over Cook Strait and banks toward Wellington Harbour, putting the city's CBD skyline, Mount Victoria, and the harbour waters on the left side of the cabin. The right side mainly shows Miramar Peninsula's suburban streets and open Cook Strait. Notable sights include: Wellington Harbour, Wellington CBD skyline, Mount Victoria, Cook Strait entrance.
How long is the flight from Christchurch to Wellington?
The flight from Christchurch International (CHC) to Wellington International (WLG) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 189 miles (304 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Christchurch to Wellington flight path pass over?
Kaikoura coastline and Seaward Kaikoura Range, Cook Strait, Marlborough Sounds visible to the west before the North Island coast comes into view