A new policy at a New Zealand airport banning long farewells in the drop-off area has gained widespread attention and sparked debate.

In a recent discussion with Radio New Zealand, Dunedin Airport Executive Dan De Bono mentioned that the airport’s newly implemented 3-minute hugging limit has stirred up quite a reaction.

“We have limited space in the drop-off zone. Many people are taking too long to say their goodbyes at the drop-off point, leaving no room for others,” De Bono stated.

This new restriction was introduced as part of improvements to the drop-off zone designed to enhance traffic flow and ensure the safety of visitors, as noted in a news release from September.

A sign at the airport advises anyone wanting to hug for longer to “use the car park.”

No ‘hug police’ will be monitoring

“We’re not enforcing how long you should hug. It’s mainly about encouraging people to keep things moving,” he clarified. “If you need extra time, please go to the car park.”

Individuals who go beyond the 3-minute limit will be kindly asked to shift to the car park, with De Bono humorously noting, “We’re not bringing in hug police.”

The Independent reported that a similar warning is displayed at an airport in Aalborg, Denmark, which reads, “Kiss and goodbye. No Kisses above 3 mins!”