Hug Limit at New Zealand Airport Sparks Global Debate
Airport imposes three-minute limit on farewell hugs in car drop-off zone
WELLINGTON: Bosses at an international airport in New Zealand’s southern city of Dunedin have made headlines worldwide by imposing a three-minute limit on farewell hugs in the car drop-off zone. The move has sparked a heated debate over the length of acceptable hugs.
The Background
The airport, known for its quirky approach to handling passenger traffic, has introduced the new signage, including the "Max hug time 3 minutes" sign, to keep things moving smoothly. According to airport chief executive Daniel De Bono, the goal is to "remind people that the drop-off zone is for quick farewells."
The Limitation
De Bono emphasized that a 20-second hug is sufficient to release oxytocin and serotonin, the happy hormones that boost well-being, and that three minutes is plenty of time to say goodbye and get a dose of happiness. He suggested that those who need a longer hug can use the car park, where the first 15 minutes are free.
The Public Response
The move has attracted a mixed reaction from the public, with some welcoming the limit and others condemning it. One commenter on the airport’s Facebook page wrote, "I’m just glad there’s no minimum hug time. A ‘see ya soon’ suffices." Another poster expressed their disapproval, saying, "Hug Police!? This is just weird! Hugs are proven to have many benefits, not to mention mental health."
The Airport’s Reaction
The airport’s marketing and communications executive, Sarah Soper, revealed that the airport started the hug limit in September with little initial reaction, but has since been surprised by the global interest.
Conclusion
The implementation of a three-minute limit on farewell hugs in the car drop-off zone at a New Zealand airport has sparked a global debate on the length of acceptable hugs. While some see it as a quirky approach to handling passenger traffic, others are critical of the limitation, citing the benefits of hugs for mental and physical well-being. As the airport continues to navigate the pros and cons, it remains to be seen whether the three-minute limit will stand the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did the airport come up with the three-minute limit?
The airport’s goal is to keep things moving smoothly, and they believe a three-minute limit is sufficient for a quick goodbye. - What happens if I want a longer hug?
You can take advantage of the free 15-minute parking in the car park, where you can have more time to say goodbye and get a longer hug. - Why did the airport start the hug limit?
The airport initial reaction to the limit was lukewarm, but they have been surprised by the global interest and the strong reactions, both for and against the limit.