The right side delivers a more varied and dramatic sequence: the textured Marlborough Sounds on departure, distant central North Island volcanic peaks during cruise, and Rangitoto plus the Hauraki Gulf on arrival. The left side is dominated by open Tasman Sea and Cook Strait water with fewer distinct landmarks.
Flown NSN to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Nelson to Auckland is 308 miles (495 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Cook Strait, Kapiti Island, the central North Island volcanic plateau (Mount Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro) visible in the distance to the east of the flight path, and the southern edge of Lake Taupo
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from NSN
RIGHTDeparting Nelson on runway 02 climbs north over Tasman Bay, and as the aircraft banks toward Cook Strait the Marlborough Sounds' intricate drowned valleys and the Richmond Range mountains unfold on the right side. The left offers mainly open water toward Abel Tasman, which is scenic but less varied.
Landing at AKL
RIGHTOn approach to runway 23L from the northeast, the descent path crosses the Hauraki Gulf, giving right-side passengers a clear view of Rangitoto's volcanic cone and the outer gulf islands before the final turn toward the city. The left side mostly shows open water until very late in the approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Nelson (NSN) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Nelson to Auckland. The right side delivers a more varied and dramatic sequence: the textured Marlborough Sounds on departure, distant central North Island volcanic peaks during cruise, and Rangitoto plus the Hauraki Gulf on arrival. The left side is dominated by open Tasman Sea and Cook Strait water with fewer distinct landmarks.
What can I see during takeoff from Nelson in Nelson?
During takeoff from Nelson (NSN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Nelson on runway 02 climbs north over Tasman Bay, and as the aircraft banks toward Cook Strait the Marlborough Sounds' intricate drowned valleys and the Richmond Range mountains unfold on the right side. The left offers mainly open water toward Abel Tasman, which is scenic but less varied. Notable sights include: Marlborough Sounds, Richmond Range, Tasman Bay, D'Urville Island.
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. On approach to runway 23L from the northeast, the descent path crosses the Hauraki Gulf, giving right-side passengers a clear view of Rangitoto's volcanic cone and the outer gulf islands before the final turn toward the city. The left side mostly shows open water until very late in the approach. Notable sights include: Rangitoto Island, Hauraki Gulf islands (Waiheke, Motutapu), Auckland city skyline, Sky Tower.
How long is the flight from Nelson to Auckland?
The flight from Nelson (NSN) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 308 miles (495 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Nelson to Auckland flight path pass over?
Cook Strait, Kapiti Island, the central North Island volcanic plateau (Mount Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro) visible in the distance to the east of the flight path, and the southern edge of Lake Taupo