Queenstown airport expecting a record number of marathon passengers

Queenstown Airport is preparing for one of its busiest weekends of the year as thousands of runners, supporters, and visitors arrive for the Queenstown Marathon.

Up until  Monday [17 November], the airport expects to welcome and farewell about 50,000 passengers, a 15% increase on last year.

Friday will be the peak day for arrivals, with 5,213 passengers expected, while Sunday will be the busiest departure day, with 4,804 passengers expected, up 4% on the Sunday after last year's marathon. Monday will also be a big day, with 4,467 passengers forecast, 17% up compared with last year.

To support the surge in demand created by the marathon and related events, airlines have added 46 extra flights between today and Monday. Air New Zealand has boosted domestic services by 21%.

Queenstown Airport Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace says the team is ready.

"The Queenstown Marathon is a fantastic event for the region, and we're excited to welcome participants and supporters from across New Zealand and overseas.

"We encourage everyone to plan ahead, allow extra time to get to and from the airport, and enjoy the atmosphere of this special weekend."