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Thousands of loved ones will be reunited this holiday season as Auckland Airport prepares for the 1.8 million travellers expected to move through its terminals over the peak period, from December 9 and lasting up until January 12.
Of this, 1 million travellers are international with nearly half (40 per cent) set to be visiting friends and family; plus 800,000 domestic travellers.
Auckland Airport chief operations officer Chloe Surridge says that’s a whole lot of hugs in the terminals.
“It’s an exciting time at the airport as we head into the busy travel season. The best part about this time of year is helping to re-connect families. We’re proud of the important role we get to play here,” she says.
Auckland Airport is a key connection point for about 26,000 tonnes of goods coming in and out of the country through Auckland Airport across the Christmas and New Year period (December 2024 and January 2025).
“The lead up to Christmas sees some pretty essential air cargo coming and going – most of it in the bellyhold of passenger aircraft. There will be a lot of Christmas gifts winging their way to and from New Zealand with aviation connections from Auckland Airport to 22 countries and beyond making sure they are under the tree in time for Christmas.
“December is a peak time for New Zealand produce to head out across the world, including salmon, snapper, lamb, cherries and honey. Fast and frequent air connections are essential for getting high quality, fresh New Zealand products to global markets in peak condition,” she says.
Auckland Airport’s international seat capacity is expected to increase 18 per cent compared to the previous quarter and 16 per cent for international air cargo capacity.
Between December and February, 26 airlines fly non-stop to 41 international destinations, including eight in Australia, eight in China and seven in North America – New Zealand’s key overseas trade markets.
Top Travel Tips
“The drop off and pick-up areas in the Transport Hub will be particularly busy this time of year, so we’re asking people to be considerate of their fellow travellers coming and going from the airport,” says Chloe.
“So that everyone has a smooth journey, there’s a three-minute dwell time for vehicles at the Transport Hub, with drop-off on the ground floor and pick-up on level 1. For those who arrive early to the precinct there are convenient free wait zones nearby or short stay parking options available.
“For families and tourists leaving the country, keep an eye out for the giant Kiwiana inspired installation after you head through duty free. It’s a 3.8 by 2.4 metre “Love NZ” sign, which will be filled with iconic Buzzy Bee we all know and love. There are several specially decorated bees hidden inside to find – keep an eye out on our website and social channels for more information this month,” she says.
Chloe says Auckland Airport had unfortunately faced some disruption last week due to an external network outage that was beyond its control, but the issue had now been rectified by the network provider.
“We thank travellers for their patience last week as this issue was resolved. Our focus for the festive season remains helping travellers to get where they need to be and doing all we can to ensure people have smooth journeys. We have Auckland Airport team members on hand to support travellers and all airlines, border agencies and aviation security are ready for summer travel, so people should please ask for help if they need it.”
