Wellington International Airport (WLG)

Common Complaints

• Inadequate International Departure Facilities: A frequent and significant complaint is the lack of sufficient seating and limited food and beverage options in the international departure area, particularly during off-peak hours or for delayed flights. Travelers have noted long lines at the single cafe and insufficient amenities.
• Long Security Wait Times: Despite efforts to improve, many recent reviews mention frustratingly long queues at security, with some reporting waits of 30 minutes or more, leading to stress and potential missed flights.
• Customs and Immigration Delays/Issues: While some experience swift processing, others have faced extended customs hold-ups, sometimes exceeding two hours. There are also reports of staff being perceived as unorganized or having inflexible policies, such as strict limitations on baby milk sachets.
• "Shockingly Unorganised" Staff and Operations: Several travelers describe the airport staff and overall operations as "shockingly unorganised," citing issues with check-in processes, a lack of staff awareness, and poor communication, particularly in stressful situations.
• Limited Overnight Stay Options: The airport officially closes between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM, making overnight stays generally impossible unless there are significant flight disruptions.

Wellington International Airport presents a dichotomy for travelers; while lauded for its central location, distinctive design, and sustainability, it frequently falls short in delivering a consistently positive passenger experience, especially within its international departure facilities and through instances of inefficient security and customs processing. Travelers should be prepared for potential congestion and limited amenities, particularly during late-night or early-morning international departures.