The right side offers the volcanic plateau near Rotorua on departure and the snow-capped Southern Alps on arrival, while the left side mostly faces open Pacific Ocean and flat coastal plains with less variety.
Flown TRG to CHC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Tauranga to Christchurch is 445 miles (717 km), a flight of about 1 hour 25 minutes.
Cook Strait, Kaikoura coastline, Southern Alps foothills
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from TRG
RIGHTDeparting TRG westbound before turning south, the right side looks toward the Kaimai Range and the volcanic plateau, giving passengers a glimpse of Rotorua's lake country and the forested ranges rather than open water.

Landing at CHC
RIGHTOn approach to Christchurch from the north, the right side faces west toward the snow-capped Southern Alps and the Kaikoura Ranges, a dramatic backdrop that dominates the final descent into the Canterbury Plains.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
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 Tauranga (TRG) to Christchurch International (CHC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tauranga to Christchurch. The right side offers the volcanic plateau near Rotorua on departure and the snow-capped Southern Alps on arrival, while the left side mostly faces open Pacific Ocean and flat coastal plains with less variety.
What can I see during takeoff from Tauranga in Tauranga?
During takeoff from Tauranga (TRG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing TRG westbound before turning south, the right side looks toward the Kaimai Range and the volcanic plateau, giving passengers a glimpse of Rotorua's lake country and the forested ranges rather than open water. Notable sights include: Kaimai Range, Rotorua lakes district, Mount Ngongotaha.
What can I see when landing at Christchurch International in Christchurch?
When landing at Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach to Christchurch from the north, the right side faces west toward the snow-capped Southern Alps and the Kaikoura Ranges, a dramatic backdrop that dominates the final descent into the Canterbury Plains. Notable sights include: Southern Alps, Kaikoura Ranges, Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri River.
How long is the flight from Tauranga to Christchurch?
The flight from Tauranga (TRG) to Christchurch International (CHC) takes about 1 hour 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 445 miles (717 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Tauranga to Christchurch flight path pass over?
Cook Strait, Kaikoura coastline, Southern Alps foothills