Around six-thousand more will be inconvenienced by unexpected schedule changes.

E tu union aviation spokesman Kelvin Ellis said tensions at the airport are high.

"Our big concern is really at the moment for our airport staff who are on the front line dealing with irate customers who's travel plans have been thrown into chaos."

Ellis said irate customers are unleashing their anger on airport staff.

"Days of constant turmoil and passengers being quite unhappy, it really does take it's toll so we've now got to work with the airlines and make sure those staff are being looked after."

Air New Zealand has also taken the step of restricting ticket sales and stopping all sales on some international flights.

More cancelled flights at Auckland Airport as the fuel crisis drags on, and the economic damage mounts.

Labour MP Stuart Nash said some staff that work for foreign airlines are having their shifts cancelled, as flights are axed.