Wellington – A New Zealand airport has imposed a three-minute limit on farewell hugs, sparking a global debate over how long you should hold on to a hug. Bosses at the international airport in the southern city of Dunedin say they have been surprised by the viral response to their new car drop-off zone rule.
“To keep things running smoothly, we have installed new signage, including the ‘Max cuddle time 3 minutes’ sign,” said airport director Daniel De Bono. “It’s our way of being a little quirky and reminding people that the drop-off zone is for quick goodbyes.”
“And don’t worry,” De Bono added, “just a 20-second hug is enough to release oxytocin and serotonin, the happy hormones that promote well-being, so three minutes is plenty of time to say goodbye and to get your dose.” of happiness.”
People who want a longer hug can use the parking lot, where the first 15 minutes are free, he added.
The hugging restriction made headlines worldwide – and led to divided reactions online.
“I’m just glad there’s no minimum cuddle time. A ‘goodbye’ is enough,” one woman responded on the airport’s Facebook page.
“Hug police!? This is just weird! Hugs are proven to have many benefits, not to mention mental health,” said another poster.
The small airport, used by fewer than 1 million passengers last year, said it imposed the hugging time limit in September, with little initial reaction.
“We are surprised at how much global interest there is,” said Sarah Soper, the airport’s marketing and communications manager.
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