New farewell policy at Dunedin Airport gives hug-time a three-minute limit!

Dunedin Airport has introduced a new policy limiting farewell hugs at its drop-off zone to three minutes, sparking a global debate on social media.

The sign at the airport advises travellers and their families, “Max hug time 3 minutes,” and suggests those seeking "fonder" farewells use the nearby car park.

Credit: Dunedin New Zealand

The airport’s policy has drawn mixed reactions. While some social media users found the restriction “inhumane,” others praised the airport for still offering a free drop-off zone, considering the rising fees at airports globally.

Comments on a viral Facebook post ranged from criticism of the time limit to humorous reflections on the practicality of a three-minute hug. “Life is short,” said one user, who questioned which loved ones deserved a three-minute hug.

Dunedin Airport CEO Daniel De Bono defended the policy during an interview with New Zealand’s RNZ radio. He explained that airports are “hotbeds of emotion” and referred to studies suggesting that even a 20-second hug is enough to release oxytocin, the hormone responsible for bonding.

According to De Bono, the time limit allows more passengers to say goodbye without clogging the drop-off zone.

Social media reactions were divided. Some commenters were surprised that Dunedin still offered a free drop-off zone, given that several major airports around the world have imposed high parking fees or fines.

One user from the UK remarked, "At my local airport, you can’t even stop without risking a fine." Another echoed this sentiment, noting that many airports now impose high fees, adding, “You can't put a time limit on hugs.”

A report by the RAC revealed that in the UK, airports such as Gatwick and Birmingham charge as much as £6 for 10 minutes in drop-off areas, making Dunedin’s free zone a rarity.

One user shared a more reflective take, commenting, “Who would I hug for three minutes? Only a few people, but it makes you think about how precious time is.”

In response to the debate, De Bono noted that the airport’s parking area allows free stays for up to 15 minutes, giving people more time for emotional goodbyes away from the busy terminal.

The policy has prompted discussions around the world on whether time limits on goodbyes should be imposed at airports, with some users suggesting similar rules for airports globally.