Category: Foreign Affairs

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel within 30 kilometres north and west of the Berm (a militarised boundary in Western Sahara) and all areas south and east of the Berm due to the threat posed by unexploded landmines (level 4 of 4). Western Sahara is a disputed and non-self-governing territory largely under Moroccan control.

Exercise increased caution in Morocco and elsewhere in Western Sahara due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

Morocco

Terrorism
There is a heightened threat of terrorism in the Maghreb region of North Africa, which includes Morocco. Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Morocco from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in Morocco. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

In December 2018, 2 foreign nationals were murdered while hiking in a remote mountain area near Mount Toubkal.

A number of suspected terrorists have been arrested in recent years and the possibility of future attacks, particularly in areas frequented by foreigners, cannot be discounted. There may be increased security measures in some areas, particularly around tourist sites and border crossings.

New Zealanders in Morocco are advised to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times, particularly in public and commercial areas known to be frequented by Western expatriates or travellers. In the event of an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it is safe to do so.

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur from time to time in Morocco and can commence at short notice. New Zealanders in Morocco are advised to avoid any protests and demonstrations, as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and staying informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media for developments. 

Kidnapping
There is an ongoing threat of kidnapping in remote regions of Morocco and in border areas. Hiking alone in remote mountain regions is not recommended. Kidnappers may be motivated by financial gain or terrorism. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times. 

Crime
Incidents of violent crime, including theft at knifepoint and armed robbery occurs in Morocco, sometimes resulting in death and injuries. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, including from passing motorcycles, is common, especially in tourist areas like the medina quarter (or old part) of towns and cities, on beaches, and on public transportation. 

Aggressive begging at ATMs and harassment of tourists by people posing as official tourist guides is also common. Tourists have been forcibly taken to stores and intimidated into making purchases in popular tourist areas. Stay on major roads, especially in medinas, and exercise caution.

We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. We also advise against travel after dark and to isolated areas. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery. 

Scams
Credit card, commercial and internet fraud (including relationship scams) is common in Morocco. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and Internet dating Scams.

Scams, such as substituting inferior goods for those that were actually bought, is common. Check goods carefully when making purchases. Remain vigilant and alert to potential confidence tricks.

Western Sahara
Western Sahara is a non-autonomous, disputed territory and its political and legal status remains unresolved. A militarised boundary separates the Moroccan-controlled part of Western Sahara from the rest of the territory, Mauritania and Algeria. It is not possible to cross this boundary. A mostly sand wall (‘the Berm’) separates the areas controlled by Morocco and those controlled by the independence movement known as the Polisario. The territory is a former area of conflict that still contains unexploded landmines which have caused death and injury, particularly in remote regions and the militarized zone with reports of landmines shifting away from the border area due to the movement of sand dunes.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Morocco to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. Preaching a religion other than Islam and importing religious material that is not related to Islam is illegal, as is making a critical or defamatory comment about the monarchy. Homosexuality and sexual relations outside marriage are illegal in Morocco. Do not consume alcohol in public places that aren’t licensed, particularly in traditional and rural areas.

You may find hospitals have no English-speaking staff or very limited ability to communicate in English. Some private hospitals may insist on payment prior to being admitted.  If you do not have adequate insurance or are otherwise unable to pay your hospital bill, you may not be allowed to leave the country until your account is settled. We strongly recommend that New Zealanders travelling or living in Morocco take out comprehensive travel insurance, which includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

Female travellers, especially when travelling alone, may receive unwanted attention. To try minimise hassle, you may choose to wear more conservative clothing.

The land border between Morocco and Algeria is closed. Don’t attempt to cross into Algeria by land.

Photography of sensitive locations, such as anything that could be perceived as a military or security interest, may result in problems with authorities. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Carry relevant personal identification and vehicle registration papers with you at all times, checkpoints can be frequent. When entering the country, make sure your passport is stamped. You may experience difficulties leaving the country if your passport bears no entry stamp or you have overstayed your visa.

It is illegal to send passports to Morocco in the post or via a courier.  As there is no New Zealand Embassy in Morocco, we are limited in the assistance we can provide with regards to lost / stolen passports and you may experience a delay in obtaining a replacement full validity passport. 

Morocco recognises dual nationality, but Moroccan citizenship takes precedence. See our advice for travelling as a dual citizen.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Morocco is situated in a seismic zone, and minor earthquakes occur occasionally.

The use of drones is restricted in Morocco and in some cases prohibited. New Zealanders should contact the relevant Moroccan authorities for more information before entering the country with a drone.

New Zealanders in Morocco are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Madrid, Spain is accredited to Morocco

Street Address Calle del Pinar, 7, 3rd floor, 28006 Madrid, Spain Telephone +34 915 230 226 Fax +34 915 230 171 Email madrid@embajadanuevazelanda.com Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/spain Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1400, and 1500-1730, July and August: Mon-Fri 0830-1330 and 1400-1630

See our regional advice for Africa

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

On 7 October 2023, rockets were fired from Gaza across southern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. There is currently a large-scale ongoing conflict occurring in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza and within Gaza. Israel has expanded its ground operations in Gaza and military operations are ongoing.

Regional tensions in the Middle East are high and could escalate quickly, and the security situation could deteriorate further with little or no notice. In an attack or other armed conflict, you should follow the advice of local authorities. Increased tensions may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions and other travel disruptions.

Demonstrations and unrest linked to the situation in the Middle East are occurring in countries worldwide. If you’re travelling overseas, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Monitor local and international media for information about possible safety or security risks.

The security situation remains highly volatile and fluid. We therefore continue to recommend strongly that those who want to leave Lebanon, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Iran do so now, while options remain available. We also recommend New Zealanders in Israel consider whether they need to remain in the country. International borders (air and land) could close at short notice. Your travel may be impacted.

Departures – Israel
New Zealanders who are wanting to leave Israel, but are unable to, can contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.

Flight schedules and operations could change or be interrupted at any time. We recommend strongly to those who want to leave Israel and can, do so as soon as possible.

Departures – Occupied Palestinian Territories
Options to depart the Occupied Palestinian Territories are extremely limited.

If you are a New Zealander in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and wish to depart, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.

Departures – Lebanon
The ongoing conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories has the potential to impact the security situation throughout Lebanon. There are ongoing exchanges of mortar and artillery fire in South Lebanon, on the border with Israel. Tensions are high and the security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. We continue to advise that New Zealanders do not travel to Lebanon. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave now via commercial options.

New Zealanders in Lebanon should be aware that commercial options for departing the country could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice. Airports and airlines may pause or cancel operations at short notice. Road transportation could also be severely disrupted. 

New Zealanders who wish to depart in Lebanon are responsible for their own departure and should ensure they have valid travel documents and, if required, appropriate visas for onward travel.

If you choose not to leave while commercial flights are operating, be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Make sure you have enough supplies including food, water, medicine, radio, torches and batteries. Know where your identity documents are, including your passport.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Lebanon, the ability of the New Zealand Government to provide assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Lebanon should consider.

If you know of other New Zealanders in Lebanon, please encourage them to register their details on SafeTravel and refer to the above advice on contingency planning.

Iran
Regional tensions in the Middle East are high and could escalate quickly. This may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, diversions and other travel disruptions.

The security situation could deteriorate further with little or no notice. In an attack or other armed conflict, support from the New Zealand government may be limited.  

Current advice for New Zealanders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Read our full updated travel advisory here. New Zealanders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories should adhere to any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities, such as curfews and travel restrictions. Areas of military activity should be avoided at all times. If you are in an affected area, shelter in place until it is safe to leave.

New Zealanders throughout the region are advised to remain security conscious. The security situation remains volatile, and violence could escalate at short notice. We advise New Zealanders remaining in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories to monitor the media and stay informed of developments. Please also contact your loved ones back home to let them know that you are safe.

We provide general advice on contingency planning for New Zealanders overseas to consider here.

Advice for New Zealanders considering travel elsewhere in the Middle East
If you are currently travelling in, or considering travel to, other countries in the region, you should read our travel advice before travelling for the latest information. Make sure you register your details on SafeTravel so that you receive any updates to our advice while travelling.

Monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination.

All New Zealanders travelling overseas should take out comprehensive travel insurance.

Consular Assistance
If you require consular assistance, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.

The New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye covers Israel and can be contacted at +90 312 446 3333 or at newzealandembassyankara@gmail.com.

The New Zealand Embassy in Cairo, Egypt covers the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Lebanon, and can be contacted at +202 2461 9186 or at enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg.

The New Zealand Embassy in Tehran, Iran can be contacted on +98 212 273 5962 or at nzembassytehran@hotmail.co.nz

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:30 Aug 2024, 14:27

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

What is Oropouche virus?  

Oropouche virus (OROV) is a vector-borne disease transmitted among people primarily through bites of the midge (Culicoides paraensis). Mosquitoes, monkeys, birds, rodents, and sloths can also be involved in transmission. The midge species C. paraensis is not found in New Zealand but is widely distributed in the Americas. 

 

  Symptoms

Symptoms usually start between four to eight days (but can be from three to 12 days) after the infective bite. Symptoms are usually self-limiting, and include sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff joints, aches, and pains and, in some cases photophobia (sensitivity to light), diplopia (double vision), nausea and persistent vomiting, and occasionally more severe symptoms, such as haemorrhage, neurological symptoms, and meningitis.

 

Symptoms can last from five to seven days. Direct human-to-human transmission of the virus has not yet been documented.  The overall prognosis is good, and deaths are extremely rare. The risk of transmission appears to be highest during the rainy season, during which the breeding of midges is increased.

 

There have been some reports that OROV infection in pregnant women may lead to miscarriage, abortion, developmental problems, and foetal deformities.

 

Vaccines and treatment

There are no vaccines to prevent OROV or specific treatment for OROV disease.

 

Oropouche outbreak in South America and imported cases in Europe

The virus is endemic in Brazil, Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago.

 

In 2024, there has been a significant increase in cases in Brazil and cases have been reported for the first time in Cuba. Although the disease has historically described as mild, two deaths have been reported from Brazil in July 2024. These are the first ever reported deaths due to OROV.

 

Most at risk people and travel advice

Anyone travelling to, or within affected countries in the Americas, especially Cuba and Brazil should take precautions to prevent midge and mosquito bites. The European Centres for Disease Control (ECDC) assess the risk of infection for travellers or residents to affected areas in Americas as low, provided they adopt protection measures against midges and mosquito bites including using fine mesh mosquito nets in beds, wearing clothing that covers legs and arms, and applying repellents containing DEET, IR3535 or icaridin. As midges are much smaller than mosquitoes, traditional mosquito nets will not protect against their bites.

 

People who are pregnant should be particularly careful to avoid being bitten given recent reports of potentially serious outcomes for the foetus/baby.

 

For further information about OROV transmission refer to the  Pan American Health Organization website

 

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:27 Aug 2024, 06:15

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

What is mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease. Symptoms may include fever, rash, headache, muscle aches, and swollen glands. Mpox is most commonly passed on through close physical or sexual contact. Mpox may also be spread through contact with objects contaminated with the virus such as bedding, or body fluids of animals infected wild animals.

For more information about how mpox spreads, people who are most at risk, mpox symptoms, and preventing spread of mpox, please read information on the Health New Zealand, Te Whatu Ora website via this link. People who are at higher risk for severe disease include pregnant women, infants younger than 1 year, people with eczema or active skin conditions, and people who are immunocompromised.

Types of mpox
There are two genetically and clinically distinct clades or subtypes of mpox virus (MPXV), I and II, and they are endemic to central and west Africa respectively. Clade I has previously been observed to be more transmissible and to cause a higher proportion of severe infections than clade II MPXV. The ongoing global mpox outbreak that began in 2022 is caused by clade II MPXV, and sporadic cases continue to be reported worldwide, including New Zealand.

On 14 August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency, its highest form of alert, following an outbreak of clade Ib virus, from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to neighbouring countries including Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Central African Republic, and Kenya.

Prevention advice for travellers
If travelling to mpox-affected countries, persons at higher risk such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, or persons working in affected area health services, should consult with their health care provider regarding extra protective measures. All travellers should take precautions to avoid mpox infections including the following:  

• All travellers to areas where there is a current mpox outbreak should protect themselves by avoiding close physical or sexual contact with people who have skin or genital lesions; avoid contact with dead or live wild animals, avoid contact with materials used by sick people like clothing, bedding, or in healthcare; avoid materials that came in contact with wild animals; and avoid eating or preparing meat from wild animals (bushmeat), or using products made from wild animals in countries where mpox occurs in animals.

• Travellers who are at higher risk of severe disease such as pregnant people, infants younger than 1 year, people with eczema or active skin conditions, and people who are immunocompromised) should take extra care to avoid situations that might increase their risk for mpox.

• It is also important to practice good hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water and alcohol-based sanitiser.

If you have been in DRC or its neighbouring countries in the last 21 days and develop mpox symptoms stay home, self-isolate and seek medical advice. Many illnesses can cause similar symptoms so it may not be mpox, but it is important to get help.

If you need to visit a medical practice or hospital for care, you should call ahead before visiting to let them know you are coming and tell them about your symptoms. To avoid passing on Mpox to others, wear a well-fitted medical mask, cover any rashes or blisters on your skin, and travel via private transport.

More information about mpox virus can be found on the Te Whatu Ora New Zealand Health or World Health Organisation websites.

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:23 Aug 2024, 12:49

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to Libya due to ongoing conflict and the threat of terrorism and kidnapping (level 4 of 4). New Zealanders currently in Libya are strongly advised to depart immediately.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Libya, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited.  We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Libya should consider.

Libya

Ongoing Conflict
The political and security situation in Libya remains extremely fragile. There continues to be increased military presence across Libya. Armed clashes have occurred between rival Libyan forces in Tripoli and to its south and west. Militia continue to operate freely in Libya, and the Libyan authorities have been unable to exert control over the security situation nationwide. Further violent clashes are likely and it is possible that those in the wrong place at the wrong time could get caught in the crossfire.

Significant numbers of unmarked landmines and unexploded ordinances remain in areas where fighting has occurred. 

Tripoli International Airport has been closed since July 2014. A number of other international airports in Libya have closed or become inaccessible as a result of the security situation. A small number of airports, including Benghazi, Mitiga Misrata, Al Labraq (in Baida) and Tobruk airports, offer international flights out of Libya, however, flight schedules can change at short notice. All airports are vulnerable to attack.

The road between Tripoli and Zawiya is vulnerable to attack. If you attempt to cross the border checkpoint with Tunisia, ensure that the crossing is open before you depart and prepare for the possibility of armed conflict on or near the border.

New Zealanders who choose to remain in Libya against our advice should be vigilant and ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times, including a robust contingency plan. We strongly recommend you consult a reputable security company for advice on security arrangements. You should monitor developments closely through the media and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Civil Unrest
Public demonstrations are a frequent occurrence throughout Libya. New Zealanders in Libya are advised to avoid all protests and large public gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. If you are in an area affected by demonstrations or violence, you should find a safe location, remain indoors, follow the advice of local authorities and leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. 

Terrorism
There is an extreme threat from terrorism throughout Libya. Terrorist and extremist groups, including Daesh-affiliated extremists (formerly referred to as ISIL), Al Qaida and other armed militias, continue to conduct attacks frequently. Future attacks are expected. Attacks may be indiscriminate and could occur anytime and anywhere, including in places frequented by foreigners.

Westerners and Western interests continue to be targeted by terrorists in Libya. A number of foreign nationals have been targeted and killed in the past. Further attacks against foreigners are highly likely. Potential targets for future attacks may include Libyan government buildings and security forces, embassies, diplomatic interests, non-governmental organisations and international hotels. 

Kidnapping
There is a significant risk that foreigners will be targeted for kidnapping by criminal and terrorist groups throughout Libya. There’s an elevated risk of kidnap for ransom and arbitrary detention by local militias throughout Libya. The risk of kidnapping is particularly high in the border areas of Algeria, Chad, Niger, Tunisia and Sudan. It is likely that kidnapping attempts against foreigners will occur opportunistically and without warning. A large number of hostages have been killed by their captors.

Crime
Law and order has broken down in many parts of the country and crime levels have increased. There is a high risk of violent crime, including carjackings and robbery by armed groups.

Basic Services
The ongoing political conflict has seriously affected public infrastructure and services causing power cuts, food, water and cash shortages, and a lack of medicines.

General Travel Advice
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment, fines, or the death penalty.

New Zealanders in Libya are advised to respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. We recommend exercising modesty and discretion in both dress and behaviour.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Libya should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel to Libya as exclusions may well apply.

New Zealanders who decide to travel or live in Libya against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Cairo, Egypt is accredited to Libya

Street Address 8th floor, North Tower, Nile City building, Corniche El Nil, Ramlet Beaulac, Cairo, Egypt Telephone +202 2461 9186 Fax +202 2461 9178 Email enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/middle-east/egypt/new-zealand-embassy-to-arab-republic-of-egypt/ Hours Sun-Wed 0900-1500 hrs, Thurs 0900-1330 hrs Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance, please call the Embassy on +202 2461 6000. Outside of business hours you will be redirected to an after-hours duty service.

See our regional advice for Africa

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Luxembourg (level 1 of 4).

 

Luxembourg

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in Europe in the past. 

New Zealanders in Luxembourg are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

Crime
Violent crime isn’t common in Luxembourg and the overall crime rate is low. However, petty crime, such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing, does occur. Thieves typically operate on public transportation, around train stations, at the airport, at youth hostels and in hotel lobbies. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

Incidents of burglary and theft from cars have also occurred. Ensure you take adequate precautions to secure your home, particularly around Christmas and the summer holidays. If you have a car, ensure you keep valuables out of sight, the windows up and doors locked.

There have been reports of individuals posing as police officers attempting to give on-the-spot fines for minor offences. If approached by police, offer to go to the nearest police station in order to verify their identity.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Luxembourg should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

Being drunk and disorderly in public is a criminal offence that can result in arrest for a night and a heavy fine.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

New Zealanders in Luxembourg are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Brussels, Belgium is accredited to Luxembourg

Street Address Avenue des Nerviens 9/31, B-1040 Brussels, Belgium. Telephone +32 2 512 1040 Fax +32 2 513 4856 Email nzemb.brussels@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/belgium Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1300 hrs, 1400-1700 hrs

See our regional advice for Europe

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution in Kazakhstan due to crime (level 2 of 4).

Kazakhstan

Crime
Violent criminals have targeted foreigners in Atyrau and Aktau in western Kazakhstan, and in Astana and Almaty, in the past. Incidents involving tourists typically occur outside of bars and nightclubs after dark, when tourists are leaving the establishments. New Zealanders in Kazakhstan should avoid walking alone and be especially cautious after dark in urban centres, when the risk of crime increases.

Robbery, pickpocketing and assaults can occur in shopping areas, markets, public transport, and restaurants. There have also been reports of travellers being robbed by individuals posing as police officers, or unsolicited ‘meet-and-greet’ drivers at airports. Never voluntarily give your wallet to someone, and always check for identification. Do not use unmarked taxis and avoid entering a cab that already has another passenger in the car. It is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable such as mobile devices and jewellery.

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in Kazakhstan. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations/protests/strikes can occur in Kazakhstan and may disrupt local public services and transport. In January 2022, violent protests erupted in Almaty and other regions in Kazakhstan, resulting in injuries and deaths. The situation has since stabilised. 

New Zealanders in Kazakhstan are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Those who participate in unauthorised demonstrations are at risk of arrest. In the event of demonstrations, comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly.

Terrorism
There is an underlying threat of terrorism in Kazakhstan. New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious in public places, monitor the media for information about threats to safety and security, and follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities.

Local Travel
Crossing the border by road or train to neighbouring countries may not be possible or safe, and access to fuel may be limited.

Avoid public transport due to poor safety standards. Robberies do occur on rail travel, always lock your compartment door if you are on an overnight train.

Use only registered taxis, preferably arranged through your hotel.

Seismic Activity
Kazakhstan is in an active seismic area and there is an ongoing possibility of earthquakes, which increases the risk of avalanches and landslides. Travellers should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions in the event of seismic activity. Familiarise yourself with general safety procedures in the event of an earthquake.

General Travel Advice
Local police often ask to see proof of identity. Foreign nationals are required by Kazakhstan law to carry their passport and visa with them at all times.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Kazakhstan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. There are shortages of even the most basic medical supplies in Kazakhstan.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Photography of and near government offices, airports, military establishments or officials, official residences, and border areas is prohibited, and could result in detention. Notices about restrictions are not always indicated. If in doubt, don’t take a picture. Many of the larger shops and supermarkets also prohibit photography.

New Zealanders in Kazakhstan are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Moscow, Russian Federation is accredited to Kazakhstan

Street Address 44 Povarskaya Ulitsa , Moscow 121069, Russian Federation Telephone +7 495 956 3579 Alternate Telephone +7 495 956 3580 Fax +7 495 956 3583 Email nzembmoscow@mft.net.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/russia Hours Mon – Fri 0900 – 1230, 1330 – 1730 hrs

See our regional advice for Central Asia

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel