Melbourne to Auckland is 1,639 miles (2,637 km), a flight of about 3 hours 35 minutes.
The right side offers Port Phillip Bay views on departure and a genuinely scenic Auckland arrival with Rangitoto Island and the city skyline, while the left side sees mostly open Tasman Sea with a less distinctive approach.
Flight Path
Open Tasman Sea with no visible landmarks for most of the cruise phase
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEL
RIGHTDeparting Melbourne on runway 16, the aircraft climbs south over Port Phillip Bay before turning east toward the Tasman Sea. Right-side passengers get a clear view of the bay's shoreline, the Bellarine Peninsula, and the entrance to Port Phillip Heads.
Landing at AKL
RIGHTArriving into Auckland on runway 23L, flights typically approach from the northeast over the Hauraki Gulf, giving right-side passengers a view of Auckland's skyline, the Waitemata Harbour, and the distinctive volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island before the turn onto final approach.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Melbourne International (MEL) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Melbourne to Auckland. The right side offers Port Phillip Bay views on departure and a genuinely scenic Auckland arrival with Rangitoto Island and the city skyline, while the left side sees mostly open Tasman Sea with a less distinctive approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Melbourne International in Melbourne?
During takeoff from Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Melbourne on runway 16, the aircraft climbs south over Port Phillip Bay before turning east toward the Tasman Sea. Right-side passengers get a clear view of the bay's shoreline, the Bellarine Peninsula, and the entrance to Port Phillip Heads. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Bellarine Peninsula, Port Phillip Heads, Mornington Peninsula coastline.
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. Arriving into Auckland on runway 23L, flights typically approach from the northeast over the Hauraki Gulf, giving right-side passengers a view of Auckland's skyline, the Waitemata Harbour, and the distinctive volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island before the turn onto final approach. Notable sights include: Rangitoto Island, Waitemata Harbour, Auckland Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour Bridge.
How long is the flight from Melbourne to Auckland?
The flight from Melbourne International (MEL) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 3 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,639 miles (2,637 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Melbourne to Auckland flight path pass over?
Open Tasman Sea with no visible landmarks for most of the cruise phase