Patricia CaleonA unique policy has just been implemented at a New Zealand airport to prevent traffic congestion caused by extended farewell embraces. Dunedin Airport has introduced a 3-minute limit on hugs for passengers being dropped off.
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New Zealand three-minute hug limit aims to maintain smooth traffic flow
Image credit: Dunedin Airport
Dan De Bono, Dunedin Airport’s CEO, explained that this new policy was introduced in September to maintain a smooth flow of traffic. The measure aims to prevent lengthy goodbyes from leading to traffic jams at the provincial hub.
A sign has been placed in the airport’s drop-off area, clearly stating that the maximum hug time is three minutes. Passengers who wish to bid extended farewells to their loved ones are encouraged to head to the airport’s car park instead.
Social media debate erupts
This new move sparked a lively debate on social media, with the image of the sign going viral. While some may have criticized the airport for this rule “infringing” on basic human rights, other have welcomed the measure as it is for a good reason.
De Bono emphasised that the 3-minute hug limit is a more pleasant alternative compared to the stricter measures implemented at other airports, such as wheel clamping or fines for excessive parking. Some airports in the United Kingdom even impose fees for all drop-offs, regardless of their purpose or duration.
Serving a city of about 135,000 people on New Zealand’s South Island, Dunedin Airport opted for this more lighthearted approach. After all, it’s painful to bid goodbye to a loved one and wonder when you’re seeing each other next. The CEO believes that three minutes is enough time for a proper farewell and to maintain a smooth flow of traffic, especially in such a busy area like the airport.
Will there be a hug police?
Image credit: Dunedin Airport
So, you’re hugging your loved one, and you go a little over three minutes. The questions is: will there be hug police to break you apart?
The quick answer is no. The airport clarifies that this 3-minute hug limit will not be strictly enforced. There will be no “hug police” to monitor the duration of all your embraces. Instead, it’s just a light reminder for passengers to keep the farewells short or move to the car park for longer goodbyes.
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This new policy at Dunedin Airport has certainly sparked conversation and debate, raising questions about the balance between convenience and personal freedom. What do you think about it?
Featured and Facebook image credit (R): Tempura via Canva Pro
