What the Sydney terror scare means for security at New Zealand airports

Police guard the passenger security check area at Sydney Airport on July 30. Photo / Getty

Security risks for New Zealand travellers at airports here are unchanged "for now" following the terror scare in Australia.

The Aviation Security Service says security settings could be changed though.

"The level of risk for New Zealand travellers is unchanged for now. Our Mfat (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade) and security officials are constantly assessing potential risks and providing advice for travellers accordingly," an Aviation Security spokesman said.

"New Zealand's overall aviation security settings remain unchanged but will be reviewed if information from Australia or elsewhere suggests this is required."

Passengers through Australian airports face extra security following police raids that uncovered an alleged plot to blow up an international flight out of Sydney using a homemade bomb disguised as a kitchen mincer.

Travellers have been warned to arrive two hours before their domestic flight because of "additional scrutiny". Those flying internationally will need to arrive three hours before their flight is scheduled.

Travellers have been told to limit the amount of baggage they take on flights to help speed up the screening process.

On Monday there were reportedly "crazy lines" at Sydney Airport as a result of the more stringent measures.