New Zealand Airport Takes on Traffic with Hug Timer Rule

Airports worldwide have implemented various strategies to alleviate congestion around terminals, including designated taxi lanes, ride-sharing prohibitions, and police directing traffic. However, Dunedin Airport in New Zealand has taken a unique approach: instituting a hug timer.In October, the airport unveiled signs stating “max hug time 3 minutes” at its drop-off zone, igniting a wave of international discussion and diverse reactions ranging from laughter to disbelief. The signs, featuring illustrations of two people embracing, further advise, “for fonder farewells, please use the car park.” These measures align with Daniel De Bono, the airport’s chief executive, who stated the goal is to inject some humor while encouraging quick goodbyes.The hugs are not just a logistical concern; they have raised questions about emotional wellbeing. De Bono reassured travelers, citing research that even a brief 20-second hug could trigger the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. He suggested that three minutes should provide ample time for a warm farewell.Social media has buzzed with images of similar signs from airports around the globe. Some have even mentioned other affectionate gestures, such as limiting kisses in certain locations. Reactions on Facebook ranged from exaggerated horror, with one user calling the time limit “inhumane,” to lighthearted observations that three minutes might be too long for such public displays of affection.Eager to clarify the enforcement of the new policy, Megan Crawford, the airport's General Manager of Business Development, noted that while there are no designated hug authorities, airport staff encourages travelers to keep farewells short and sweet. Still, questions linger about potential long embraces exceeding the limit.Despite being positioned far from the bustling hubs of air travel like Heathrow and JFK, Dunedin Airport’s hug timer has surprisingly garnered significant attention. In response, Heathrow recently showcased its own humorous signage declaring “Max hug time, unlimited,” though travelers must pay a small fee for drop-offs outside its terminals to enjoy such liberties.Eve Sampson reports on global news trends and is a participant in the prestigious 2024-25 Times Fellowship program aimed at supporting aspiring journalists.