New Zealand Airport Imposes 3-Minute Hug Limit, Sparking a Global Cuddle Controversy

By The Malketeer

How Long Is Too Long For A Goodbye Hug?  

Dunedin International Airport’s latest quirky move to limit farewell hugs to just three minutes has sparked a heated worldwide debate, leaving people wondering—how long is too long for a goodbye embrace?

The airport’s decision, intended to keep traffic moving smoothly in the drop-off zone, has ignited both praise and backlash, putting an unexpected spotlight on the science of hugs.

A 3-Minute Hug Limit: Practical or Pointless? 

The airport, nestled in the southern city of Dunedin, introduced the “Max hug time 3 minutes” rule in September.

According to Daniel De Bono, the airport’s Chief Executive, the measure is part of an effort to maintain smooth operations in the drop-off zone.

The signage, he says, is meant to add a quirky touch while gently reminding travelers that quick farewells are appreciated.

For those craving longer cuddles, De Bono reassures that the airport car park offers a 15-minute grace period for extended goodbyes.

The Science Behind Hugs—Is Three Minutes Enough? 

While the rule has caught many off guard, De Bono highlighted the positive effects of even a brief hug.

“Just a 20-second hug is enough to release oxytocin and serotonin, the happy hormones that boost well-being,” he explained.

So, three minutes may not be so stingy after all.

Still, the move has sparked a divided response online, with some applauding the practicality, while others feel it strips the emotional value of an airport farewell.

The Global Debate: Hugging Restrictions or Hug Freedom? 

Since going viral, the hug rule has prompted both amused and critical reactions across social media.

“I’m just glad there’s no minimum hug time. A ‘see ya soon’ suffices,” commented one user.

Others, however, voiced their displeasure, with one poster exclaiming, “Hug Police!? This is just weird!” pointing out that hugs are known to have a range of mental health benefits.

The airport’s Marketing Executive, Sarah Soper, admitted they were taken aback by the global reaction to what was meant as a light-hearted initiative.

What started as a simple move to ease congestion at Dunedin International Airport has turned into a global conversation about the emotional and physical importance of hugs.

While the airport’s three-minute limit may seem restrictive to some, others find it a practical solution in today’s fast-paced world.

One thing is clear—people are passionate about their hugs, and it’s not every day that a farewell embrace becomes a point of international debate.

By the way, our PAS brethren have no issues with hugging limits at their state airports nor presence of any Hug Cops!