Right-side seats capture the most distinctive scenery: the Otago Peninsula and harbour during departure, then the Otago coastline and inland ranges during the flight northward, and finally views of the Southern Alps as you approach Christchurch from the east.
Flown DUD to CHC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Dunedin to Christchurch is 204 miles (328 km), a flight of about 1 hour.
The flight path crosses the Otago region heading north-northeast. Notable features include the Lammerlaw Range and Lammermoor Range (inland, visible from altitude as rolling forested hills), the Waitaki River valley (marking the boundary between Otago and Canterbury regions), and the transition from coastal Otago terrain to the flat Canterbury Plains. The Southern Alps remain visible to the west throughout most of the flight, appearing as a distant mountain chain on the horizon.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DUD
RIGHTDunedin Airport departs northbound (runway 03/21, typically 03 for northbound). Right-side seats face west toward the Otago Peninsula and Taieri Mouth estuary as you climb. Left side shows inland terrain with less distinctive features.
Landing at CHC
LEFTChristchurch Airport uses runways 02/20, typically 02 for southbound arrivals. Left-side seats face east toward the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps as you descend. The approach path offers views of the flat agricultural landscape and distant mountain ranges.
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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 Dunedin (DUD) to Christchurch International (CHC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Dunedin to Christchurch. Right-side seats capture the most distinctive scenery: the Otago Peninsula and harbour during departure, then the Otago coastline and inland ranges during the flight northward, and finally views of the Southern Alps as you approach Christchurch from the east.
What can I see during takeoff from Dunedin in Dunedin?
During takeoff from Dunedin (DUD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Dunedin Airport departs northbound (runway 03/21, typically 03 for northbound). Right-side seats face west toward the Otago Peninsula and Taieri Mouth estuary as you climb. Left side shows inland terrain with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Otago Peninsula (distinctive curved landform), Taieri River mouth and estuary, Dunedin city sprawl, Otago Harbour.
What can I see when landing at Christchurch International in Christchurch?
When landing at Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Christchurch Airport uses runways 02/20, typically 02 for southbound arrivals. Left-side seats face east toward the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps as you descend. The approach path offers views of the flat agricultural landscape and distant mountain ranges. Notable sights include: Southern Alps (distant peaks including Mount Cook region), Canterbury Plains (extensive flat farmland), Waimakariri River valley, Christchurch city and surrounding suburbs.
How long is the flight from Dunedin to Christchurch?
The flight from Dunedin (DUD) to Christchurch International (CHC) takes about 1 hour. The shortest flight path between them is 204 miles (328 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Dunedin to Christchurch flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Otago region heading north-northeast. Notable features include the Lammerlaw Range and Lammermoor Range (inland, visible from altitude as rolling forested hills), the Waitaki River valley (marking the boundary between Otago and Canterbury regions), and the transition from coastal Otago terrain to the flat Canterbury Plains. The Southern Alps remain visible to the west throughout most of the flight, appearing as a distant mountain chain on the horizon.