Although takeoff favors the harbour side, the right side dominates for the bulk of the short flight: the Kaikoura Ranges rising near the coast during cruise and the dramatic Southern Alps backdrop on the Christchurch approach give it more sustained scenic payoff than the ocean-facing left side.
Flown WLG to CHC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Wellington to Christchurch is 189 miles (304 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
Cook Strait crossing, Marlborough Sounds, and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range rising near the coastline are visible along the route before the descent into Canterbury
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from WLG
LEFTDeparting WLG on the prevailing runway 34, the climb-out heads north over Wellington Harbour before the aircraft banks around toward Christchurch. That bank gives left-side passengers a sweeping view of the CBD skyline, the harbour basin, and the hills ringing the city.
Landing at CHC
RIGHTOn approach into Christchurch from the north, the aircraft descends over the flat Canterbury Plains toward runway 20, and the western side of the cabin has a clear view of the snow-dusted Southern Alps rising abruptly from the farmland. It's a striking contrast of flat plains meeting sharp mountains that the ocean-facing side simply doesn't match.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Wellington International (WLG) to Christchurch International (CHC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Wellington to Christchurch. Although takeoff favors the harbour side, the right side dominates for the bulk of the short flight: the Kaikoura Ranges rising near the coast during cruise and the dramatic Southern Alps backdrop on the Christchurch approach give it more sustained scenic payoff than the ocean-facing left side.
What can I see during takeoff from Wellington International in Wellington?
During takeoff from Wellington International (WLG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing WLG on the prevailing runway 34, the climb-out heads north over Wellington Harbour before the aircraft banks around toward Christchurch. That bank gives left-side passengers a sweeping view of the CBD skyline, the harbour basin, and the hills ringing the city. Notable sights include: Wellington CBD skyline, Wellington Harbour, Mount Victoria lookout hill, Miramar Peninsula.
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 into Christchurch from the north, the aircraft descends over the flat Canterbury Plains toward runway 20, and the western side of the cabin has a clear view of the snow-dusted Southern Alps rising abruptly from the farmland. It's a striking contrast of flat plains meeting sharp mountains that the ocean-facing side simply doesn't match. Notable sights include: Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains farmland, foothill ranges near Arthur's Pass, Waimakariri River braids.
How long is the flight from Wellington to Christchurch?
The flight from Wellington International (WLG) to Christchurch International (CHC) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 189 miles (304 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Wellington to Christchurch flight path pass over?
Cook Strait crossing, Marlborough Sounds, and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range rising near the coastline are visible along the route before the descent into Canterbury