Queenstown airport expecting 5,000 arrivals a day over Xmas

Queenstown Airport is preparing for daily arrivals of over 5,000 passengers over the Christmas holiday period.

This Saturday will be the biggest day for arrivals, with about 5250 people expected to fly into Queenstown.

More than 5,000 arrivals are also expected on Sunday, 22 December, Friday, 27 December, and Saturday, 28 December.

Departures start to increase after Christmas, with more than 5,000 a day from Thursday, 2 January, to Sunday, 5 January.

“We expect strong passenger numbers right through the school holidays to the end of January,” Queenstown Airport Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace says.

“It’s wonderful to connect people with their friends and family at Christmas, and to see others fly off for a holiday. However, our systems will be operating near capacity and the terminal will be bustling, so please be patient and allow extra time to check in, drop your bag, clear security, and get on your plane.”

The team at Queenstown airport have supplied a list of holiday air travel advice.

• Before you start packing, check what you are allowed to take on a plane. Be especially careful about batteries and items such as wireless ear buds or hearing-aid chargers, as some of these things must be packed in a carry-on bag. If you are flying internationally, there are special rules for powders, liquids, aerosols, and gels.
• Allow plenty of time to get to the airport, as the roads will be busy. If you are travelling far, the NZTA Journey Planner will keep you up to date with road conditions.
• Keep an eye on our website for real-time information about flight arrivals and departures at Queenstown Airport. 
• If you are driving to the airport, consider using our Park & Ride service. It is an affordable parking option located on Brookes Road and a free return shuttle operates 365 days a year. The first trip departs Park & Ride 100 minutes before the first flight is scheduled to depart. The last trip leaves Queenstown Airport 60 minutes after the last flight arrival.
• If you are on pick-up duty, check the flight arrival time before you leave home and take advantage of our P20 zone right in front of the terminal where you may park for 20 minutes for free. Just stay in the right-hand lane as you drive through the roundabout.
• Please be warned, waiting in the drop-off zone is not allowed. This area is monitored and you could receive a traffic infringement ticket if you linger.
• If you are dropping passengers off there, please say a quick farewell, then drive on. Leaving a vehicle unattended in the drop-off zone will be treated as a security threat, so if you need to help with luggage or check-in, please use the P20 zone.
• If it is a while since you last caught a flight, security screening might be a little different. Advances in screening technology mean you no longer need to remove laptops and other electronic devices from your carry-on bag.
• If you are leaving New Zealand, you will need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration when you return. The easiest way to do this is online or on the NZTD app before you get on your flight. It is free and can be submitted up to 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. Doing it in advance will make passenger processing easier when you return home.
• A little patience and kindness go a long way. Our team is here to help you, and a smile can make everyone's day better.
• Finally, from all of us at ZQN, we wish you happy holidays!