While the takeoff offers excellent Hudson River and Manhattan views on the left, the landing approach into Auckland provides more dramatic and sustained visual interest with Rangitoto Island, Waitemata Harbour, and the city's distinctive geography. Right seats capture the most iconic Auckland arrival scenery.
Flown EWR to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Newark to Auckland is 8,815 miles (14,186 km), a flight of about 17 hours 30 minutes.
The Pacific Ocean dominates the entire flight path. Notable waypoints include: the North American coastline (California coast visible on departure day), the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island's volcanic peaks if routing via Hawaii), the International Date Line crossing, and the approach to New Zealand across the Tasman Sea. The flight crosses multiple time zones and typically follows great circle routing across the central Pacific. No significant landmasses are visible for roughly 12-14 hours of the journey.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from EWR
LEFTNewark typically departs runways 4L/4R or 22L/22R. Westbound departures on runway 22 favor left seats for views of the Hudson River, Manhattan skyline, and the New Jersey Palisades as you climb out over northern New Jersey.
Landing at AKL
RIGHTAuckland typically lands on runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind. Eastbound approaches on runway 03 favor right seats for views of the Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island, and the Auckland isthmus as you descend through 5,000-8,000 feet.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Newark to Auckland. While the takeoff offers excellent Hudson River and Manhattan views on the left, the landing approach into Auckland provides more dramatic and sustained visual interest with Rangitoto Island, Waitemata Harbour, and the city's distinctive geography. Right seats capture the most iconic Auckland arrival scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from Newark Liberty International in Newark?
During takeoff from Newark Liberty International (EWR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Newark typically departs runways 4L/4R or 22L/22R. Westbound departures on runway 22 favor left seats for views of the Hudson River, Manhattan skyline, and the New Jersey Palisades as you climb out over northern New Jersey. Notable sights include: Hudson River (immediate left), Manhattan skyline (left-center distance), New Jersey Palisades (left), George Washington Bridge area (left).
What can I see when landing at Auckland International in Auckland?
When landing at Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Auckland typically lands on runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind. Eastbound approaches on runway 03 favor right seats for views of the Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island, and the Auckland isthmus as you descend through 5,000-8,000 feet. Notable sights include: Waitemata Harbour (right side), Rangitoto Island (right-center), Auckland isthmus and city (center-left), Hauraki Gulf (right horizon).
How long is the flight from Newark to Auckland?
The flight from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 17 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 8,815 miles (14,186 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Newark to Auckland flight path pass over?
The Pacific Ocean dominates the entire flight path. Notable waypoints include: the North American coastline (California coast visible on departure day), the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island's volcanic peaks if routing via Hawaii), the International Date Line crossing, and the approach to New Zealand across the Tasman Sea. The flight crosses multiple time zones and typically follows great circle routing across the central Pacific. No significant landmasses are visible for roughly 12-14 hours of the journey.