Auckland diversion leaves Qantas passengers stuck on plane for over 8 hours

Qantas has apologised to passengers on a flight from Brisbane to Wellington after they were stuck on the plane for more than eight hours because of a diversion to Auckland

The flight QF 281 left Brisbane just before 11:30am this morning (local time) bound for Wellington but was diverted to Auckland because of poor weather in Wellington.

Qantas confirmed the plane landed in Auckland at 4.15pm, but passengers were unable to disembark until about 8.30pm due to "some operational and administrative complexities whilst in Auckland".

Qantas said customers would be reaccommodated on the next available services to Wellington.

"We sincerely apologise to customers for the experience, and our teams are working hard to get them on their way as soon as possible," a Qantas spokesperson said.

Auckland Airport has been contacted for comment.