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International departures through Auckland Airport during the September school holidays this year are set to exceed levels for the same period in 2025.
Current projections show overall international traveller numbers are up 7.2 per cent on the September school holiday period in 2025, while international departures are also set to reach 102 per cent of comparable 2019 levels. International arrivals are close behind at 97 per cent of 2019 levels.
Auckland Airport chief customer officer Scott Tasker says the figures highlight the strength of demand for international travel during the September school holiday period.
“We’re seeing international departures growth year-on-year, along with a move above comparable 2019 school holiday levels, which is an encouraging sign for international travel. Airlines are also adding more seats across key destinations, giving travellers more choice as they plan their holidays.”
International airline capacity is up 3 per cent year-on-year across September and October. Airline seats available between Auckland and Australia are set to increase by 8 per cent, with China up 14 per cent and Japan and South Korea up 9 per cent.
Vietnam, China, Japan, the Cook Islands and Australia have been among the destinations growing in popularity with Kiwi travellers during 2026.
Busiest travel days
Saturday September 26, the first day of the New Zealand school holidays, is shaping up to be the busiest day for international departures, with almost 15,500 travellers projected to depart through Auckland Airport. International arrivals are likely to peak on Saturday 3 October, when close to 16,900 travellers are expected to arrive.
Current projections show international departure numbers peaking in the lead-up to the school holidays, with Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays across the break typically attracting the highest international traveller volumes.
“With Australian and New Zealand school holidays falling across different weeks this year, we’re expecting a longer period of elevated travel demand rather than one concentrated peak,” says Scott
“For anyone travelling during this period, our advice is to check your airline’s guidance before you travel, arrive at the time recommended for your flight, and be prepared for some layouts and check-in arrangements to look different from your last visit as Auckland Airport continues to progress the delivery of the integrated terminal.”
International arrivals are likely to be busiest between October 5 and 11, with more than 108,000 arriving travellers expected across the week.
For domestic travellers, Thursdays and Fridays are shaping up to be the busiest days, with both departures and arrivals peaking on Friday September 25.
What travellers can expect
International travellers should plan for a busier airport and a different terminal experience these school holidays, with construction now visible across parts of the international terminal.
Work is underway on Auckland Airport’s new domestic jet terminal, alongside upgrades to check-in, and passport control and security screening.
A new mix of dining options at the international terminal will open progressively this year, with well-known brands and local favourites joining a refreshed food and beverage offering. As well as upgraded retail and duty-free spaces which will offer a more modern retail environment for travellers.
That means some routes through the international terminal may be different, some areas may feel more constrained than usual, and travellers may need a little more time to move between check-in, security and their departure gate.
“We’re asking travellers to come prepared, follow the signs and allow extra time, particularly on the busiest departure days,” says Scott
“There will be more people travelling, and there is a major construction programme underway, so the best thing travellers can do is check their flight check-in times and location on our website before they leave home, follow the signs, and make sure restricted items are not packed in their carry-on bags.”
Practical tips for travellers
Check before you leave home
- Follow your airline’s guidance on when to arrive at the international terminal check which check-in zone you’ll be using on the Auckland Airport website before heading to the airport. Some flights are now using Zone T, the temporary check-in zone alongside the Transport Hub.
Once you’re at the airport
- After checking in, follow signs and the directions of airport staff. Some routes through the international terminal may be different from your last visit.
Pack smart for your flight
- All power banks and spare lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on luggage only, with battery terminals protected. Rules for travelling with battery-powered devices and spare batteries can vary by airline, so check your airline’s requirements before leaving home.
- Checked luggage is also screened. Take a look at Aviation Security guidance to make sure you’re packing smart. Large liquids, aerosols and gels over 100ml must go in checked luggage and sharp items such as scissors or pocketknives cannot be taken in the aircraft cabin.
