Is a 3 Minute Hug Long Enough for You at the Airport?

Farewell hugs are a common sight at airports, but travellers at Dunedin Airport in New Zealand will need to keep their goodbyes brief. A newly imposed three-minute limit in the airport’s disembarkation area aims to prevent prolonged farewells from disrupting traffic flow.

Signs outside the terminal now declare, “Maximum hug time: three minutes,” and encourage those seeking “more affectionate goodbyes” to use the airport car park instead.

The rule, introduced in September, is part of efforts to ensure smooth operations in the redesigned passenger arrival area, according to CEO Dan De Bono. “It’s a gentle reminder that this area is intended for quick goodbyes,” he explained.

The initiative has sparked mixed reactions on social media. While some criticised the restriction as an infringement on personal expression, others appreciated the effort to maintain order. De Bono noted that Dunedin Airport chose a light-hearted approach compared to stricter warnings or penalties seen at other airports.

The three-minute limit, De Bono assured, is more than enough time for a meaningful goodbye. “A 20-second hug is enough to trigger oxytocin and serotonin the feel-good hormones,” he said. Anything longer, he added, can feel awkward.

Despite the guidelines, travellers need not fear enforcement. “There are no hug police,” De Bono quipped. For extended goodbyes, visitors can head to the car park, where they can embrace for up to 15 minutes at no charge.

Dunedin Airport’s policy blends practicality with a touch of humour, reminding travellers that even short hugs can leave lasting memories.