Category: Human Rights

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 Venezuela due to the unstable political and economic situation, ongoing high levels of violent crime, the potential for violent civil unrest, and shortages of food, medicine and other basic supplies (level 4 of 4).

There is a risk of kidnapping due to drug traffickers and illegal armed groups operating within 80 kilometres of the border with Colombia, particularly in the States of Zulia, Tachira and Apure.

Venezuela

Violent Crime
There is a very high level of violent crime throughout Venezuela, including in national parks and tourist areas. Murder, armed robberies, kidnappings and carjackings are common, especially in the capital Caracas. Street crime, such as mugging and pickpocketing, is prevalent and often results in violence. Many criminals carry firearms. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Victims are often injured or killed when attempting to resist perpetrators. Sexual assault is also a significant concern.

The capital Caracas has one of the highest rates of violent crime in the world and you should avoid ‘barrios’ (heavily populated slum areas) as violent crime is especially prevalent in these areas.

Travellers have been robbed and assaulted after accepting spiked food and drink. Do not leave food or drink unattended or accept any food or drink from strangers. Criminals have also been known to pose as police officers or uniformed officials to harass and extort money from tourists.

New Zealanders are advised to exercise vigilance at all times, and maintain a low profile as crime in Venezuela can occur at any time. You should avoid walking or driving in isolated areas, especially at night and avoid wearing or displaying valuables such as cameras, phones or jewellery. When travelling by car, keep doors locked and windows up at all times and do not stop to assist with vehicle breakdowns, clear debris from the road or to pick up hitchhikers.

Kidnapping
Kidnapping is of serious concern in Venezuela. Express kidnappings, where criminals abduct a victim for a short amount of time and force them to withdraw funds from their bank account, are common. Express kidnappings are common and occur throughout the country. Tourists may be specifically targeted. To reduce the risk of this, we recommend you use ATMs which are located within bank branches and during daylight hours only. Be discrete when handling money in public. 

Terrorism
Along with criminal gangs, Colombian terrorist groups such as the ELN are active along Venezuela’s border with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana. Kidnapping for ransom in these areas has resulted in the death of hostages, including foreigners.

Local Travel/Transport Safety
The area around Maiqueta Simon Bolivar Airport and the road between the airport and Caracas are particularly dangerous. Criminal groups operate in, and around, the airport and we advise particular vigilance while transiting the airport. Travel after dark on the road to Caracas should be avoided. We recommend staying in an airport hotel if your flight is arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning, ensure you make safe transport arrangements for between the airport and airport hotel.

There have also been reports of muggings and kidnappings by criminals posing as taxi drivers. New Zealanders are strongly advised to exercise caution when using taxis throughout Venezuela. Use radio-dispatched or pre-booked taxis and check the driver’s identification and company information before you enter the vehicle. Avoid all public transport. Seek professional security advice and have effective personal security measures in place.

Border closures with Colombia and Brazil occur frequently, often with little notice.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension
Political demonstrations and protests regularly occur throughout Venezuela, often in major urban centres, and civil unrest has increased since 2019. Protests have taken place in Caracas, Maracay Merida, San Cristobal, Valencia, and other cities. Protests have resulted in many arrests, injuries and deaths in the past. Further protest activity and ongoing unrest is likely and there is the ongoing possibility of violence. The political, economic and security situation remains volatile.

Roads and highways are often blocked during demonstrations which can also disrupt public transport systems. Authorities are heavily armed and often use tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Disruptions to essential services also occur.

New Zealanders in Venezuela are advised to avoid any protests, demonstrations or large public gatherings as even peaceful gatherings have the potential to turn violent. We advise paying close attention to personal security and monitoring local media for information. 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, leave as soon as it is safe to do so.

Basic Services
The economic situation in Venezuela remains extremely fragile. Provision of basic food items and necessities, including water, electricity and medication can be unreliable, leading to shortages and disruptions. These items may be difficult to obtain away from hotels and as precautionary measure, we recommend ensuring adequate supplies of food and water are on hand. Long queues for basic services can lead to riots, fighting and theft.

Piracy
Incidents of piracy have occurred off the coast of Venezuela. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Venezuela, 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 Venezuela should consider.

Tensions have increased between Guyana and Venezuela. The security situation may deteriorate near Venezuela/Guyana border area. If you choose to travel to this area, you should monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

It is unsafe to drink tap water in Venezuela, use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment in harsh and dangerous Venezuelan jails, which are among the worst in the region.

Authorities may ask for proof of your identity at any time, carry a colour photocopy of your passport at all times.

Photography of government buildings, airports, military bases or the Presidential palace is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

New Zealanders in Venezuela should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Mexico City, Mexico is accredited to Venezuela

Street Address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510 Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Fax +52 55 5283 9480 Email nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/mexico Hours Mon – Fri 0930 – 1400

See our regional advice for Central/South America

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 Guyana due to high levels of crime (level 2 of 4).

Guyana

Post Closure
The New Zealand High Commission in Bridgetown (accredited to Guyana) has now formally closed.

New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or email cons@mfat.govt.nz.

Crime
There are relatively high rates of violent crime such as armed robbery, carjacking, shootings, kidnapping and assault in Guyana, particularly in urban areas. Local police often lack the capacity to respond effectively to crimes. New Zealanders in Guyana are advised to be security conscious at all times. Armed robberies and assaults can occur in businesses, shopping districts and hotels. If you’re staying in a hotel or guesthouse, use caution when opening the room doors and secure your belongings and valuables. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a robbery, mugging, or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. 

Crime rates are particularly high in the Stabroek Market, South Georgetown, Agricola, Albouystown, Sophia and Tiger Bay areas of Georgetown. Other high risk areas include East Coast Demerara, particularly near the villages of Buxton, Lusignan Friendship and Annadale, the East Bank Demerara region and New Amsterdam. Violent criminal activity on the coast, in Bartica and in the tourist resorts along the Essequibo River, occurs. There have been violent attacks on the road to and from Cheddi Jagan International Airport, mainly at night, and the Georgetown sea wall has been the site of several violent crimes. Assaults have also taken place in the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown. Visit such sites with an organized tour group.

New Zealanders should avoid walking alone at all times, particularly to isolated areas, and avoid travelling at night. When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. 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, cameras and jewellery. Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing also occurs in Guyana and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Civil unrest
Public demonstrations can occur. New Zealanders in Guyana 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. New Zealanders are also advised to follow local media sources and be aware of their surroundings. 

Transport safety
Buses are generally overcrowded and poorly maintained. Avoid using minibuses due to dangerous driving practices. 

Taxis sourced from a reputable company are generally safe. Ask airport and hotel staff about official taxi services – avoid hailing taxis off the street as robberies and assaults have occurred.

Piracy remains a threat in the coastal waters off Guyana. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

General travel advice
Tensions have increased between Guyana and Venezuela. The security situation may deteriorate near Venezuela/Guyana border area. If you choose to travel to this area, you should monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. 

Homosexual activity is illegal and can lead to arrest and imprisonment.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Guyana should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

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

See our regional advice for Central/South America

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

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 Spain due to the ongoing threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4). 

Spain

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 in Spain and across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. Spanish authorities continue to report the disruption of planned attacks. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

On 17 – 18 August 2017, two terrorist related incidents occurred in Las Ramblas, Barcelona, and Cambrils, approximately 120kms southwest of Barcelona. These events resulted in a number of fatalities and injuries.

The Spanish government maintains a national terrorism alert level in response to terrorist attacks in Europe and elsewhere, as well as information held by its security agencies.  The current alert level is available on the Spanish Interior Ministry’s website  (in Spanish).

The Basque terrorist organisation Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA) announced a ‘definitive cessation of armed activity’ in October 2011, and a full disarmament took place in April 2017. ETA announced its full dissolution effective from 2 May 2018. 

New Zealanders in Spain 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 a high degree of vigilance in public places, particularly at tourist sites, shopping areas and transport hubs, such as airports and railway stations.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pick pocketing is common in Spain, and is particularly common in tourist areas and on public transport, especially in Barcelona and Madrid. Foreign tourists are targeted by professional thieves in Spain, and this regularly includes New Zealanders. We advise New Zealanders in Spain to maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure personal belongings. You may wish to leave your passport and other valuables in a secure place and instead carry a photocopy of your document.

There are a wide variety of scams in operation, involving various forms of distraction to tourists while they are being pickpocketed. These distractions can be elaborate and involve accomplices. For example, an accomplice will “accidentally” dirty your clothing by spilling coffee or food on you to allow a seemingly helpful bystander to offer assistance in cleaning it while they pick the pockets of your clothing. Bags, wallets and purses are frequently stolen from restaurants, street side tables, and other crowded locations, such as beaches.

Thieves have been known to pose as police officers, asking to see wallets for identification purposes – if approached by someone claiming to be a police officer we recommend you show only your ID and not your wallet or other valuables. Thieves have also been known to target hotel rooms and safes.

Thieves are known to target motorists, especially in rental cars. Service stations are a popular area for thieves and they may try to convince you there is damage to the car, or in some cases, tourists have had their cars physically damaged e.g. punctured tyres – then had their belongings stolen whilst investigating. New Zealanders are advised to be wary of anyone who approaches or offers assistance and if you decide to stop and get out of the car to investigate, we advise you to lock all the doors and keep valuables in a safe place.

The Spanish Police provide information and helpful tips for tourists here:

The New Zealand Embassy website  provides advice on what to do if your New Zealand passport is lost or stolen.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations occur regularly throughout Spain and can disrupt traffic and transport, leading to delays and the cancellation of services. There have previously been large gatherings of people in Barcelona and other areas of the Catalonia region in relation to the political developments there. While the majority are largely peaceful some protests can become violent with little warning, including instances of arson and vandalism. New Zealanders in Spain are advised to avoid all demonstrations and protests. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media.

General Travel Advice
Keep your passport in a safe place and only carry a photocopy for identification purposes. Local authorities can request ID at any time and can detain a person until identity is proven. 

Parts of Spain can experience extreme temperatures in the summer months.  This can also increase the risk of forest fires.  Flash flooding can also occur.  We advise checking weather warnings in advance and following the advice of the local authorities.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Spain should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

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

If you enter Spain on a Spanish or other non-New Zealand passport, your access to consular assistance may be limited. Read our advice on dual citizenship here.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Madrid, Spain

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

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Barcelona, Spain

Street Address Camelias, 32/Pasaje Camil Oliveras, Barcelona 08024 Telephone +34 93 209 5048 Email nzconsulatebcn@gmail.com Hours By appointment only

See our regional advice for Europe

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

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

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

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 Viet Nam (level 2 of 4).

Viet Nam

Crime
There is a risk of petty crime against foreign tourists, particularly in public places and in larger cities. Bag slashing can occur in crowded areas such as markets, trains, buses and supermarkets as well as snatch and grab theft from thieves, including those on motorcycles, which can result in injury. Tourists have been robbed after withdrawing money from ATMs. To reduce the risk of this occurring we recommend you use ATMs located inside banks and shopping centres. When walking in public areas and travelling on public transport we recommend that you pay close attention to your personal belongings, and make sure they are secure at all times. 

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and sexual assault reported in Vietnam. 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.

Sexual assault and harrassment, including inappropriate touching and groping, does occur. You should take sensible precautions. Avoiding walking alone, especially at night.

There have been reports of personal or commercial disputes occassionally leading to threats of violence. If you are threatened with violence, report it to the local police.

Civil unrest
Political dissent is rare in Viet Nam and protests are generally not tolerated. We recommend you avoid any protests and demonstrations. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities. Photography of the military, police or demonstrations is prohibited, and could result in detention. 

Landmines
There is a danger from unexploded landmines in former battlefields, particularly in central Viet Nam and along the Laos border. Mined areas may be unmarked. New Zealanders are advised not to stray off well used roads and paths in rural areas.

Scams
There have been reports of taxi scams involving foreigners, upon arrival at airports. Travellers are advised to take airport taxis, prearranged hotel transfer services or taxis from clearly marked ranks with minders. If you pre-book a taxi, make sure that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows your destination, and that the details of the vehicle and driver match those provided by the company

Commercial scams also occur in Viet Nam, offers that seem too good to be true may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.

Transport safety
Road safety is a significant concern in Viet Nam. Traffic accidents occur frequently, often causing death or serious injury. Motorcycle riders and pedestrians are common victims. Consider carefully the safety standards of any vehicle and any accompanying equipment, such as helmets, you may hire. 

Roads are often in a bad state of repair and driving conditions are chaotic.  Pedestrians are at particular risk since sidewalks are often not usable and people have to walk right along the roadside. Visitors should take only genuine taxis with meters, and ride-hailing services like Grab which is considered generally reliable and safe.  Many unofficial taxis are in poor condition and do not have seatbelts.     

Maritime safety has been a concern, including Ha Long Bay. Accidents on waterways occur, and there have been a number of fatalities in recent years from vessels sinking or catching fire. Consider carefully the safety standards of boat/tour operators.

General travel advice
Some border areas are sensitive and travelling through them is restricted. Check before travelling that you can access your route. 

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

We advise carrying a photocopy of the biodata page from your passport for identification and leaving your passport in a safe place such as your hotel safe.

Be aware that there are only basic medical services outside of the main cities in Viet Nam. You may need medical evacuation to a major centre, even for minor operations. New Zealanders travelling or living in Viet Nam should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for high risk adventure activities and medical evacuation by air.

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Ha Noi, Viet Nam

Street Address Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To Street, Ha Noi, Viet Nam Telephone +84 24 3824 1481 Fax +84 24 3824 1480 Email nzembassy.hanoi@mft.net.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/viet-nam Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1200, 1300 – 1700 hrs

New Zealand Consulate-General Ho Chi Minh City , Viet Nam

Street Address Suite 804, Level 8, The Metropolitan, 235 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam Telephone +84 901 80 7770 Fax +84 28 3822 6905 Email nzconsulate.hcmc@nzte.govt.nz Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1130, 1300 – 1700hrs

See our regional advice for South East Asia

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 Chile due to crime and the potential for violent civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

Chile

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur regularly in Chile, particularly in central Santiago and other major cities. Dates of national significance such as 11 September (anniversary of the 1973 military coup), 18 October (anniversary of 2019 civil unrest), 29 March (anniversary of the Young Combatant) and 1 May (Workers’ Day) may be a focus for protesters and are often marked by demonstrations. Police may use tear gas and/or water cannons to disperse crowds.

New Zealanders in Chile are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. You should expect roadblocks and delays to public transport. We recommend monitoring local media for information on upcoming or expected events. New Zealanders who are in an area affected by demonstrations or violence should leave the immediate vicinity and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Following civil unrest and violence across Chile that took place on 25 October 2020 during the national referendum on constitutional reform, there remains the potential for further demonstrations, protests and violent clashes in Santiago and other major cities, including Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, Punta Arenas, Puerto Montt, Concepción and Antofagasta. You should expect to see a significant police presence in major cities. Remain vigilant and avoid protests and demonstrations.

Chilean law prohibits political activity by foreign nationals visiting or living in Chile. Participation in protests or demonstrations may result in detention or deportation.

Crime
There are high rates of petty crime and property theft in Chile, particularly in urban areas frequented by tourists and foreigners such as Santiago, Calama, Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. New Zealanders should be vigilant at all times, due to the risk of mugging, pickpocketing, phone/bag snatching and drink spiking. A common tactic in tourist areas is for thieves to throw mustard or a similar substance on victims and then offer to help clean it off, while an accomplice steals their possessions.

New Zealanders driving in Chile should be alert to scams and thefts from vehicles. There are reports of perpetrators puncturing car tyres while vehicles are stopped at traffic lights or in parking areas, and using this as a distraction to steal items from the vehicle.

Violent crime, such as carjacking, assault and armed robberies have increased in recent years. No resistance should be given if you are a victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

Taxis should be booked in advance by phone, especially late at night, rather than hailed on the street. Confirm you have the correct taxi before entering the vehicle, as there have been reports of people being robbed by fake and unlicensed taxi drivers, including airport taxis.

New Zealanders are advised to take particular care with their belongings, including passports, and maintain awareness of their environment in public places like restaurants, airports, the metro, on buses or at bus stations. The risk of crime increases after dark. Keep your passport in a safe place and only carry a photocopy for identification purposes. Extra caution with belongings is strongly advised on all public transport, including long distance buses, particularly between Calama and Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama or Santiago.

Terrorism
Small-scale bomb attacks and bomb threats occur from time to time in Santiago. These incidents are generally associated with domestic anarchist groups. They can occur any time of day and in some cases, have caused serious injuries. On 4 January 2019, an explosion at a bus stop in Santiago injured five people. Targets may include banks, churches, ATMs, public buildings and public transport facilities

Political Tensions
There is an ongoing conflict between protest groups and government authorities in Araucanía and other nearby provinces in southern Chile. This has occasionally resulted in  politically-motivated violence. Foreigners have not been directly targeted. A state of emergency is ongoing in the provinces of Biobio, Arauco, Cautin and Malleco. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews.

We recommend you exercise particular caution if travelling to this region, seek local advice and make amendments to your travel routes if necessary.

Landmines
Landmine fields are a danger in remote areas of the northern regions of Arica-Parinacota, Tarapaca and Antofagasta in the north and in the southern regions of Magallanes and Antártica, near the border with Argentina. Many landmines are located in border areas.

Although most of these areas are clearly marked and are being demined, some signs and fences are old and damaged, and may be difficult to spot. Travellers should check with local authorities before travelling to these areas, not enter restricted areas, stick to clearly marked roads, use official border crossings only, and observe all warning signs.

Natural Disasters
Chile is located in an active seismic zone and the most common natural disasters are earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Other less frequent emergencies include flooding, forest fires, mudslides and tsunamis.

Chile has a number of active volcanoes, several of which pose a continued risk of eruption. Ashfall from previous eruptions has caused major disruption to air travel in the region.

New Zealanders should monitor local media reports and follow any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities, including evacuations. Chilean civil defence authorities use a series of colour codes to convey the public level of threat involved in any emergency event. Information and current alerts (in Spanish) are available on Chile’s National Emergency Office website.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Chile should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

Authorisation from the Chilean government should be sought at least 90 days prior to your travel for mountaineering or scientific activities in ‘frontier’ regions.

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Santiago, Chile

Street Address Isidora Goyenechea 3000, 12th Floor, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile Telephone +56 2 2616 3000 Fax +56 2 2951 6138 Email embajada@nzembassy.cl Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/chile Hours Mon-Fri 0845-1300, 1400-1715 hrs

See our regional advice for Central/South America

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 South Africa due to violent crime (level 2 of 4).

South Africa

Crime
There is a very high level of violent crime in South Africa, which includes mugging, murder, sexual assault, carjacking, armed robbery and kidnapping. While most travellers are likely to experience a trouble-free visit, there is a serious risk of crime, particularly in city centres and townships. Although crime occurs at all hours, the risk significantly increases at night.  

Carjacking and theft from vehicles is a concern in South Africa, including car windows being broken and valuables taken while vehicles are stopped at intersections. When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times, hide valuables from view and remain vigilant at intersections. Do not stop to assist with vehicle breakdowns, clear debris from the road or pick up hitchhikers. Criminals have posed as police officers asking for identification to rob tourists.

You should investigate your route in advance and check for any disruption before travelling by road. Travellers have been rerouted by their GPS through unsafe areas. You should use major roads where it is safe to do so and verify the safety of any alternate routes recommended by your GPS. Avoid shortcuts through townships due to an increased risk of crime.

Particular care should be taken with luggage and personal belongings in and around all airports. Where possible, luggage should be locked in secure plastic film. Criminals have followed tourists from the airport and later robbed them. Be particularly vigilant around the airport. Unsolicited offers of assistance with baggage and transportation arrangements, other than from official porters, should be declined. Avoid using Numbi Gate at Kruger National Park due to elevated levels of crime in the area.

Automatic teller machine (ATM) and ‘card skimming’ crimes are common. Criminals may loiter near machines to rob people making withdrawals. New Zealanders are advised to maintain security awareness when using an ATM, refuse offers of ‘help’, only withdraw small amounts, and avoid using them outside business hours. It may be safer to use ATMs located within a bank or shopping mall.

New Zealanders are advised to be conscious of personal safety at all times. We recommend you avoid travel after dark and to isolated areas and avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices, cameras and jewellery. If you are confronted by an armed individual, immediately comply and avoid resisting, as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in South Africa. New Zealanders in South Africa 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.

Civil unrest
Strikes and demonstrations occur from time to time in South Africa. There have been outbreaks of violence primarily directed toward refugees and other African migrants throughout South Africa. Violence could occur again at short notice and bystanders could be caught up.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent. You should not attempt to cross roadblocks. We recommend you monitor the local media to keep up to date with local events and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Scams
Commercial and internet fraud is common in South Africa. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam.

Fake internet relationship schemes operate from some African countries. Be wary, do not meet up with or send money to any person you have any doubt about.

For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.

Hiking
Attacks against hikers have occurred at reserves, hiking trails, national parks, including Table Mountain, and other tourist attractions. To help prevent attacks, hike in a group and be aware of your surroundings and circumstances.

Public transport
Avoid using public transport, including buses, trains and minibuses. The ‘Gautrain’ high speed commuter train service which runs between Johannesburg, Pretoria and the Oliver Tambo International Airport, as well as the Blue Train and Ravos Rail, are, however, considered to be generally safe for tourists.

Travelling on foot is inadvisable in most areas. If walking is unavoidable, walk in busy and brightly lit streets and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking after dark.

Road conditions are generally good, but roads in the rural and more remote areas may be less maintained. Road safety is an issue due to poor driving habits and poorly maintained vehicles. Avoid driving after dark and be vigilant when the vehicle is stationary, including traffic lights, stop signs and motorway off-ramps. Ensure that the vehicle doors and locked and windows are closed at all times.

Outages 
Scheduled power outages regularly occur in South Africa, known locally as “load shedding”. These nationwide outages can take place at short notice, and can result in up to six hours or more without power per day.

Load shedding can affect private residences, hotels and businesses, as well as key infrastructure such as municipal lighting, traffic lights, water provision, fuel provision, ATMs and telecommunications. Load shedding can also result in interruptions to the supply of water. Load shedding may increase the existing risk of criminal activity, for example smash and grab crime during traffic jams or the targeting of residences when lights are out and security systems are not functioning.

Prepare in advance for load shedding, including:

• Check with your accommodation provider about the measures they have in place to manage the impact of power outages and be prepared for issues that may arise as a result of outages.
• Check planned municipal power outages on the Eskom website or via “load-shedding” apps.
• Identify safe areas around the city, including hotels, hospitals or police stations that may not lose power. 
• Have a communications plan for when there is no or limited power. This includes having power banks and additional charging cords and hard copies of important numbers.
• Maintain several days’ worth of non-perishable food, drinking water, and other essential items, including medicine and first aid supplies. 
• Have a supply of cash available in the event that electronic transaction systems are affected.
• Store torches, batteries, radios and basic tools in quick-access locations.  
• Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
   

General travel advice
The South African Department of Home Affairs has updated travel regulations relating to travel with children. For more information on these changes please see the South African Department of Home Affairs website.

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

New Zealand/South African dual citizens should be aware of the requirement for all dual citizens to enter South Africa on their South African passport. If you are not sure about your citizenship status, you should contact the nearest South African High Commission or Embassy, or the South African Department of Home Affairs.  

New Zealanders living or travelling in South Africa should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand High Commission Pretoria, South Africa

Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa Postal Address Private Bag X27, Brooklyn Square 0075, Pretoria, South Africa Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa Hours Mon – Fri 0800 – 1630hrs

See our regional advice for Africa