Christchurch welcomes a world-first in airport security today.

Christchurch International Airport is the first in the world to test a new system that allows families to depart through customs with ease.

The new e-gates will allow for families with children aged below 12 years to pass through - instead of lining up for face-to-face processes.

Customs Minister Nicky Wagner said there are two cameras on the customised gate.

"It's a kiosk that has two cameras in it and those cameras mean that you can be photographed from one metre to 2.1 metres, so depending on how tall your child is you can either crouch down and take your photo with them or hold them up.

"The whole idea of this is that families can be processed through an e-gate together, which means it's generally quicker, more efficient and more effective."

Ms Wagner said the trial will last a few months and is only for those arriving in Christchurch at this stage.