Category: New Zealand Government

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 areas bordering Somalia due to the significant threat of terrorism, kidnapping and cross-border attacks. This includes Garissa county, Mandera county and Wajir County (Level 4 of 4).

Do not travel to the border areas with Ethiopia and South Sudan. Cross-border kidnapping and armed banditry make these border areas extremely unsafe. (Level 4 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel to Lamu county, coastal areas of Tana River and Kilifi counties north of Malindi due to the threat from terrorism and violent crime (level 3 of 4). 

Avoid non-essential travel to the Eastleigh and Kibera neighbourhoods of Nairobi due to the threat from terrorism and violent crime (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

Kenya

Terrorism
There is a heightened risk of terrorism throughout Kenya. The Somalia based terrorist group Al Shabaab has carried out a number of past attacks in Kenya and continues to publicly threaten to carry out further attacks. Credible information indicates that Westerners may be targeted by extremists in Nairobi, coastal areas of Kenya, Naivasha and Nanyuki.

The majority of attacks occur in coastal regions and in the north-east of the country near the Somali border and have included shootings, bombings and grenade attacks.

An ongoing threat remains in Nairobi and Mombasa. In January 2019, a terrorist attack on the DusitD2 Hotel complex in Nairobi resulted in 21 deaths. In 2013, an attack on the Westgate Mall in Nairobi resulted in 68 deaths, including foreigners. There have been multiple terrorist incidents in Lamu, Mandera and Garissa counties in recent years.

Methods of attack include the use of improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, roadside bombs, shootings, kidnappings, and knife attacks.

Future attacks are highly likely, and could happen at any time. Such attacks could be directed at foreigners or places frequented by travellers, including Government buildings (including Embassies), places of worship, transport hubs and networks, public areas, international schools and United Nations facilities.

New Zealanders in Kenya are advised to be security conscious at all times and follow any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities. Particular care should be taken in crowded and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners, as well as on and around public transport, and during religious holidays and sporting events. Additional security measures such as avoiding areas with large crowds should be considered.

Kidnapping
There is an ongoing risk of kidnapping in areas close to the border with Somalia, Garissa county, Mandera county, Wajir county and coastal areas and towns in north-eastern Kenya, particularly Lamu county. Westerners and aid workers have previously been the target of kidnappers in these areas, including in the Dadaab refugee camp, and further attacks are considered likely. New Zealanders in Kenya are advised to be particularly vigilant about their personal security in these areas and keep a low profile in public places.

Violent crime
There is a high crime rate in Kenya, particularly in the major cities of Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu. Violent crime, including carjacking, mugging and armed robbery is common especially in urban areas. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery, mugging or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Police regularly confront criminal suspects in criminal places, bystanders have sometimes been get caught up in the crossfire, resulting in death or injury. 

Foreigners travelling to or from the international airports in Nairobi and Mombasa have been targeted, and advice for Jomo Kenyatta Airport is to use Mombasa road, rather than the old airport road (Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road. In the past, foreigners have been the target of home invasions in Nairobi. Slum areas have higher crime rates – New Zealanders should exercise extreme caution in the slum areas of Nairobi, the old town of Mombasa and on and around the Likoni Ferry, particularly at night. There is increased criminal activity at night, including robberies and street attacks. Stampedes and overcrowding on the ferry have resulted in multiple injuries. New Zealanders in Kenya should avoid walking or travelling alone, particularly at night and to isolated areas.

Violent incidents involving herders is common in central and north central Kenya, herders are often armed. These incidents are usually aimed at either private ranches or wildlife conservation parks, tourists have not been targeted. If you plan on travelling to this area, check with your accommodation or tour provider about conditions on the ground.

There are reports of bandit groups and robbers at unauthorised border crossing points with Uganda and Tanzania.

Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and robberies, occurs and is common in transport hubs and on trains. Crime tends to increase during holiday periods. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. Avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery.  

When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times, hide valuables from view and do not stop to assist with vehicle breakdowns, clear debris from the road or pick up hitchhikers. Travel in remote areas should be undertaken in convoy. If travelling to Lamu Town or Manda Island, it is advised to do so by air rather than by road travel.

Civil unrest
There is the potential for escalated tensions and civil disorder in the lead up to election periods as well as after the declaration of results. Demonstrations and clashes are possible throughout the country, particularly in the Western region and at all political gatherings including those at county level. Demonstrations can cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.  

New Zealanders in Kenya 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. Avoid areas where an event may take place, such as government buildings, universities, political party headquarters and electoral commission offices. 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.

Banditry, tribal clashes and sporadic violence have occurred in parts of north and north-eastern Kenya. Foreigners are not normally involved or targeted but could be incidentally caught up in violence. 

Scams
Beware of thieves acting as Police Officers, Security Guards or Government officials, and always ask for ID. 

Internet romance scams and commercial and internet fraud is common in Kenya. 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 International Scams and Internet Dating Scams. 

Local Travel
Public transport options such as long distance buses and minivans (matutus) are dangerous. They are often poorly maintained, ill-insured and badly driven. There are also frequent reports of them being hijacked and passengers being robbed. Always check the bus operator’s safety standards. 

Most visits to game reserves and other tourist areas are trouble free. Serious incidents are rare but crime can occur. Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly if on foot and at close range. If you plan to visit a game reserve or national park, only use reputable tour operators. Always follow park regulations and instructions from the park wardens.

Piracy
Piracy remains a significant threat in the coastal waters off Kenya. In the past, Somali pirates have attacked vessels as far as 1000 nautical miles from the Somalian coast. 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
It is a legal requirement to carry a form of identification with you at all times. Failure to produce them could result in a fine or arrest. 

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Kenya to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. Homosexual activity is illegal and could result in arrest and imprisonment. We would advise against taking photos when visiting poorer neighbourhoods, as there has been incidents of stone throwing.

The Kenya Tourism Federation operates a 24/7 Safety and Communication Centre, which provides information on tourism, road conditions and regional assistance in an emergency.

Taking photographs of official buildings (including embassies) and airports can lead to detention. If in doubt, seek advice from an official before taking photographs.

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

Drought is the primary natural hazard in Kenya, primarily affecting the North Eastern and Eastern area. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Kenya should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for adventure activities and medical evacuation by air. The safety standards of some transport and tour operators can vary.

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is accredited to Kenya

Street Address Bole Sub City, Woreda 03, House No 111, Behind Atlas Hotel/close to Shala Park, (Namibia Street), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Postal Address New Zealand Embassy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Private Bag 18-901 Wellington Mail Centre 5045, Wellington Telephone +251-11-515-1269 Fax +251-11-552-6115 Email aue@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/ethiopia Hours Open to the public: Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm by appointment Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance after hours, please call the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24/7 Consular Emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Nairobi, Kenya

Street Address 15th Floor Absa Towers, Loita Street Nairobi, Kenya. Postal Address PO Box 41272 – 00100 Nairobi Kenya Telephone +254 20 2300166, + 254 20 2711645 Mobile +254 720 630 100 Email contact@nzconsulinkenya.com

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 increased caution in Bolivia due to the potential for civil unrest and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

Bolivia

There are media reports of an attempted coup and military movement in and around La Paz, Bolivia; this could quickly spread to other cities. Protests and demonstrations may develop in response to this attempted coup, and protests can turn violent quickly.

Civil Unrest
Protests may occur at short notice and turn violent without warning. Roadblocks can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation, and could last for several days. Previous demonstrations have resulted in the deaths of some protesters.

New Zealanders in Bolivia should exercise a high degree of caution, avoid all protests, strikes and demonstrations, monitor the local media and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. No attempt should be made to pass or go around roadblocks as this may aggravate the situation and lead to violence.

Crime
Violent crime against foreigners, including armed robbery and assault occurs in tourist areas like La Paz and Santa Cruz. Petty crime is common in urban areas and around tourist sites and public transport facilities.

“Organised” robberies are common and have involved attempts by individuals or groups to distract or deceive tourists. Criminals sometimes pose as police officers or fellow tourists. Be aware that under Bolivian law, you are not obliged to follow a police officer unless he or she has a formal written request from a judge with your name on it, and any search or seizure must occur at a bona fide police station in the presence of the prosecutor.

Drug traffickers and other criminals in the border region present a serious danger to travellers. Particular care should be taken at land border crossings with Chile, Peru, and Brazil.

Local authorities caution people to avoid Coronilla Hill, the area adjacent to the main bus terminal in Cochabamba due to a high incidence of crime.   

When travelling on the inca trails or near Rurrenabaque, remain in large groups and only join tours organised by reputable tour operators as criminals have targeted tourists in this area.

Beware of individuals offering help, as thieves often work in teams to distract their victims. Tourists frequently report having liquid thrown on them and or their belongings and a person nearby offering to help them clean up.  

“Express kidnappings” are when criminals abduct a victim and force them to withdraw funds from automatic teller machines (ATMs) to secure their release. There has been an increase in express kidnappings and robberies involving taxis and is common in the major cities of Cochabamba, La Paz and Santa Cruz. Overland border points with Chile, Peru and Argentina are also high risk areas. For your personal safety and to reduce the risk of this occurring, we recommend you use ATMs located within bank branches.

Throughout the country, care should be taken when using public transport. Use only well-known radio taxi companies that can be easily identified by the telephone number displayed on the vehicle’s roof. Do not get in a taxi that already has passengers in it. If travelling by bus, try to use direct routes and arrive during daylight hours whenever possible, especially along the popular route from Copacabana to La Paz, and avoid transferring at the Desaguadero border crossing with Peru.

The telephone number for the tourist police with English speaking operators is 800 140 081. Please note this number only works from within Bolivia.

Local laws
Bolivian drug laws include a zero tolerance policy. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, and may include lengthy prison sentences in local jails and heavy fines. You should refer to the list of controlled substances that are considered narcotics in Bolivia. (in Spanish)

There are strict rules relating to the import and export of prescription medication. Foreign nationals have been detained on arrival for possession of medicines that would not normally be problematic in other countries. New Zealanders are advised to carry a letter from a doctor describing their medical condition and any prescribed medication. Any medicines should be in their original containers and clearly labelled.

You must register your home or hotel address online with Bolivian migration authorities. If you don’t register, you can receive a fine when you depart from the country. Consult your accommodation provider for more information or access the registration system online (Spanish). 

Natural Disasters
Bolivia’s rainy season is from December to March. Flooding and landslides are common during this period and have caused widespread damage and loss of life in the past.

General Travel Advice
Bolivia offers a number of adventure activities, including mountain biking, salt flat tours and jungle expeditions. There are no official minimum standards for tour operators. Seek local advice and only use reputable companies. Check your travel insurance policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. Avoid prison tours, which are illegal and can be unsafe.

Travellers should be aware that there are risks of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Yellow fever, Zika virus, malaria, Chagas disease and dengue, as well as other infectious diseases such as hepatitis, tuberculosis and rabies. It is unsafe to drink tap water in many areas of Bolivia, use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. There is also a risk of altitude sickness for travel above 2500m altitude; many areas of Bolivia are above 2500m, including La Paz, Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca. Speak to a medical professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your travel plans.

Medical care can be very expensive, facilities outside of the major cities can be very limited, and some medical treatments may not be available, including access to rabies treatment. New Zealanders travelling or living in Bolivia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air, noting that many air ambulance services are unable to fly directly into locations such as La Paz due to the high altitude. 

Keep your passport in a safe place and only carry a coloured photocopy of your passport and visa for identification purposes.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Bolivia 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 is accredited to Bolivia

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.

Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion and ongoing military aggression (level 4 of 4). There is a real risk to life.

New Zealanders currently in Ukraine are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so. The New Zealand Government is severely limited in its ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens in Ukraine.

Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing, with heavy fighting on the frontlines in northern, eastern and southern Ukraine and missile and drone strikes possible across the country. Civilians are being impacted and foreigners have been killed. There is a real risk to life. There are large amounts of unexploded ordnance and landmines present in conflict and post-conflict areas. There is also concern about military activity and shelling around Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. We advise New Zealanders in Ukraine to seek shelter in a secure place until you judge it is safe to depart. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times and always prioritise your immediate safety. Monitor advice from reputable local and international media as well as the SafeTravel website. Where you judge it is safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine.

Ukraine’s airspace is closed. Land border crossings are open but expect some congestion. As a result of the invasion, roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Electricity blackouts are possible across the country due to damaged energy infrastructure. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel.  Bring hard copies of important documentation, as well as any other essentials you may need. Check the entry requirements of your intended destination regularly before arrival as many neighbouring countries are adjusting them. Book accommodation in the country you are travelling to in advance if you can. Under martial law, Ukrainian “military-aged” males (aged 18-60 years), including dual nationals, are being stopped from leaving Ukraine. There are limited exemptions, including for people who have completed certain types of military service already or are sole parents of young children or disabled persons. Anyone claiming an exemption will need to provide extensive documentation.

A nationwide state of emergency is in force and martial law has been imposed. Other local restrictions could be implemented with limited warning. Follow the instructions of the Ukrainian authorities, including responding to air raid sirens, and check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary across the regions.

If you’re in Ukraine, please register with SafeTravel if you have not already done so and keep your details up to date so we know of your situation and can keep you updated with the latest information. If you are in Ukraine in need of assistance, you should email nzwsw@nzembassy.pl or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand). Please note that New Zealand’s ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is extremely limited in these circumstances. You should not rely on the New Zealand Government to evacuate you from Ukraine.

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. The Ukrainian authorities have disrupted a number of planned attacks in the past, including in Kyiv. Small scale targeted attacks (assassinations and bombings) including car bombs occur in Ukraine every year, some involving casualties. Further attacks could happen anywhere at any time, including in areas frequented by foreigners. New Zealanders in Ukraine are advised to exercise vigilance in public places, and stay alert.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing is increasing, particularly in Kyiv at night. Incidents are increasingly occurring on public transport. Muggings, street scams and drinks spiking have also been reported. We recommend taking extra care to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended and being cautious about accepting drinks from strangers and recent acquaintances.

We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to ensure their safety and secure their personal belongings. 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. Avoid travelling alone and at night.

Credit card fraud, including skimming, and internet fraud is common in Ukraine. We recommend New Zealanders take extra care when using credit cards and ATMs and carefully check credit card statements for fraudulent charges. 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 International Scams.

Don’t hail a taxi on the street – order one from your hotel or a taxi company. Only use official taxis, and agree the fare before you get in. At airports, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations and protests occur occasionally in Ukraine, particularly in Kyiv, and may disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders in Ukraine 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.

General Travel Advice
Carry your passport at all times, as local authorities may stop foreigners and ask them to present their passport and visas. Keep a photocopy in a safe place.

Under Ukrainian law it is illegal to enter internationally recognised Ukrainian territory through a border point that is not currently controlled by Ukrainian authorities.

We advise against entering into new surrogacy agreements, as consular assistance in Ukraine is extremely limited in these circumstances.

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

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

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

 

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Warsaw, Poland is accredited to Ukraine

Telephone +48 22 521 0500 Emergency Telephone 24/7 Consular emergency line: 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) Email nzwsw@nzembassy.pl Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/poland

See our regional advice for Europe

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

Travelling overseas with moko, permanent markings or tattoos

Travelling with moko (facial tattoo)
Tā Moko (Māori tattoo), in particular mataora and moko kauae are an important expression of culture, identity and whakapapa for Māori. Travellers with moko should be cognisant of the fact that permanent markings of this nature could be viewed differently overseas. Views and reactions may include curiosity, either positive or negative.

Bars and restaurants in some countries may have a dress code that bars visible tattoos (moko/mataora). Travellers are advised to check dress codes regarding entry.

Stigma attached to tattoos
In some countries tattoos, particularly facial tattoos, are associated with crime and carry some stigma.

As tattoos in some countries are uncommon and often associated with organised crime, those with moko may be denied entry to some places such as restaurants, gyms or swimming venues, or be asked to cover up their cultural markings. Travellers are advised to check entry rules with a venue in advance of visiting and consult guides that some national tourism authorities, such as Japan (below), have made available.

Useful websites
Japan National Tourism Organization – 7 tattoo-friendly onsen (hot springs) in Japan

Japan National Tourism Organization – An Insider’s Guide to Kagaya Ryokan (Inn)

Posted:24 Jun 2024, 10:48

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

Travelling overseas with taonga (culturally or religiously significant items) – Tō haerenga me ngā taonga

This advice relates to personal items only.

Perception as weapons
Some taonga can be viewed as weapons and be confiscated by customs or security officials with no ways for items to be recovered. Check the customs restrictions for each country you are travelling to or through. Pack these taonga in checked baggage rather than in carry-on baggage, or wearing them. 

Useful website
Travelling with culturally or religiously significant items (aviation.govt.nz)

Endangered species
Taonga made with bone, feathers, shells and so on may be subject to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and require a permit to be taken across a border. Before travelling, check the permitting requirements of the country you’re travelling to. If you are travelling to multiple countries, you may need a permit for each country. 

The CITES website lists all CITES national authorities) who can also help to make sure you have the correct documentation for when you arrive.

The New Zealand government has very limited ability to help in having items returned once they have been seized in another country, so make sure to travel with the correct permits.

Useful website
Travelling with taonga: CITES (doc.govt.nz)

Biosecurity prohibitions
Taonga made with wood, bone, shells, feathers and fibres may be subject to biosecurity prohibitions. Check the biosecurity rules for each country you are travelling to or through.

Protected New Zealand objects
If your taonga, artwork or craft is over 50 years old you may need a Certificate of Permission from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage to take it out of Aotearoa New Zealand. If your taonga, artwork or craft looks over 50 years old, request a letter from the Ministry confirming exemption of the item and carry it with you to show border officials.

Contact the Ministry for Culture and Heritage Protected Objects team to check if you will need to apply for a certificate to travel with your personal taonga.

Useful website
travelling-with-taonga-2019.pdf (doc.govt.nz)

Posted:24 Jun 2024, 10:40