Fast Track Security/Immigration Outbound at MEL

[tuapekastar]

On a recent trip to NZ I was given a Fast Track card at MEL for security and immigration outbound.

At security the card was checked (or more correctly, noted) and I was directed through a lane that definitely saved me time by having me 'jump' a fair-sized queue.

Coming out the other side of security, the entrance to the Immi desks is on the RHS. The first lane on the right (I think from memory it is the first, I think there was a crew lane and maybe APEC also in the vicinity) is signposted for 'Express Card Holders' but it seemed everyone was joining that first lane. Whilst I don't know, I strongly suspect most did not have Express Cards. There was no-one checking for them, and I'm guessing the sheep principle applied and most people just joinerd the first queue they saw/came to, regardless of signage.

I actually wandered off to the left and through a 'normal' lane as it was somewhat quicker than the express lane. I did however do something silly by having my Express Card in my hand when handing over docs to the Immi officer. Whilst I had intended to hang onto it (for a rainy day, or to give to someone else to use) and it was separate from P/P and Pax card, he took it. I asked for it back and he said no.

Has anyone else noticed this? (the queueing situation for Immi)

 

[serfty]

They have the queue but indeed, policing is limited.

The far right lane is Apec/Crew/Diplomatic, the next to the left is the express lane.

The express cards have been retained for the last few months.

I had an experience recently when in the express lane when about 10 Apec holders rocked down to my right. They were being served before those in my queue - after two had been served and the third called up served I noted the normal queues were now nearly empty so I ducked under the ropes to the left and was processed straight away.

 

[Mwenenzi]

I managed to keep my express card before Xmas at MEL The right side was crowded and went left anyway to fill out the green immigration form. Always store the express card in my backpack before heading for immigration. Have a collection now . May need to use them one day.

 

[tuapekastar]

Always store the express card in my backpack before heading for immigration. Have a collection now . May need to use them one day.

Just what I intended to do (for similar reasons), but just plain forgot.

 

[trippin_the_rift]

I find the APEC card works the same as express cards and when it's policed you're all good without having to give up an express card