Looking for a place to smoke at Christchurch Airport? CHC has two designated outdoor areas outside the terminal, but its Clear Air Policy also bans smoking in the plaza — so you need to reach the specific designated zones.
Smoking at Christchurch Airport – CHC – 2026
Christchurch Airport has a single integrated terminal with domestic and international sections.
Designated Outdoor Areas:
Christchurch Airport’s Clear Air Policy restricts smoking and vaping to two specific outdoor zones:
The Clear Air Policy bans smoking and vaping not only inside the terminal but also in the plaza area outside. You must use the two designated zones.
In addition to NZ’s Smokefree Environments Act, Christchurch Airport enforces its own Clear Air Policy. Smoking, e-cigarettes, vaping, and similar products are not permitted in the terminal or plaza area. Only the two designated outdoor zones are available.
Smoking Areas at Christchurch Airport
Christchurch Airport has a single integrated terminal with domestic and international sections.
Designated Outdoor Areas:
Christchurch Airport’s Clear Air Policy restricts smoking and vaping to two specific outdoor zones:
- Near the NZ Gift shop and Travelex counter area: Exit the terminal and turn right toward the drop-off zone and car park area. A smoking shelter is in this vicinity.
- Outside the international arrivals hall: Near the regional terminal area.
The Clear Air Policy bans smoking and vaping not only inside the terminal but also in the plaza area outside. You must use the two designated zones.
Christchurch Airport Smoking Policy
In addition to NZ’s Smokefree Environments Act, Christchurch Airport enforces its own Clear Air Policy. Smoking, e-cigarettes, vaping, and similar products are not permitted in the terminal or plaza area. Only the two designated outdoor zones are available.
Tips for Smokers at Christchurch Airport
- Only two designated outdoor areas — near NZ Gift shop/Travelex and outside international arrivals
- The plaza area outside the terminal is also smoke-free — walk to the designated zones
- No confirmed airside smoking access
- Vaping is explicitly banned under the Clear Air Policy inside the terminal and plaza
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke inside Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
No. Christchurch Airport has a Clear Air Policy that bans smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes in the terminal building and the plaza area. Only two designated outdoor areas are available.
Where are the smoking areas at Christchurch Airport?
Two designated outdoor areas outside the terminal: one near the NZ Gift shop and Travelex counter area (exit and turn right toward the drop-off zone), and one outside the international arrivals hall near the regional terminal area.
Is there a smoking area after security at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
No confirmed airside smoking area. Christchurch Airport’s official policy mentions only two designated areas outside the terminal building. Once past security, you cannot smoke until you exit at your destination.
Can I vape at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?
Vaping is explicitly banned inside the terminal and plaza under the Clear Air Policy. You can only vape in the two designated outdoor smoking areas.