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Pakistan

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

  • Reviewed: 12 March 2024, 12:07 NZDT
  • Still current at: 12 March 2024

Related news features

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 Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (except for Chitral district), and Pakistan-Administered Kashmir due to the high risk of kidnapping, terrorism and the unpredictable security situation (level 4 of 4).

Do not travel to the border areas with Afghanistan and India, including the line of control, due to the volatile security situation (level 4 of 4). This does not include Lahore, Wagah, Kasur, Narowal, Sialkot (except for areas within 15km of the border) and the Wagah official border crossing point.

Avoid non-essential travel elsewhere in Pakistan due to the threat of terrorism, the risk of kidnapping, potential for civil unrest, sectarian violence and the unpredictable security situation (level 3 of 4). New Zealanders in Pakistan with concerns for their safety should consider leaving the country.

Pakistan

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

Terrorism
 There is an ongoing and significant threat from terrorism throughout Pakistan. Future terrorist attacks are expected, could be indiscriminate and could occur throughout Pakistan. We continue to receive information that terrorist groups are planning attacks in Pakistan, including against Western targets.

Numerous terrorist groups are present and operate in Pakistan. While terrorist attacks frequently target Pakistani Government institutions, security and military personnel, foreigners and foreign interests have also been targeted. The provinces of Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are particularly volatile. There is an increased risk of attack during religious holidays and days of national significance. Security forces may cut mobile phone services and internet access until a threat has passed.

Potential targets across Pakistan could include Government, military institutions, security and law enforcement personnel, public places, sporting events, live music venues, hospitals, courts, hotels, transport hubs (including airports), markets, shopping malls, educational institutions, embassies, religious sites and identifiably Western interests, premises and symbols, including businesses and NGOs.

Methods of attack have included shootings, grenades, and bombings (including improvised explosive devices, roadside bombs and suicide bombs).

Sectarian violence is common in many parts of Pakistan and places of worship and religious sites associated with religious sects are also at risk of terrorist attack. The city of Karachi has high levels of political, sectarian and criminal violence.  Protests and demonstrations by religious and political parties have at times led to significant disruptions in the city and regularly result in violent civil unrest. There is a higher level of public security across much of Karachi, police and paramilitary rangers occasionally conduct counter-terrorism operations.

Pakistan has suffered a significant number of terrorist attacks. Recent attacks include:

  • On 17 February 2023, three police officers and one civilian were killed in an attack on the police headquarters in Karachi, claimed by the Pakistan Taliban.
  • On 30 January 2023, at least 92 people were killed and more than 170 injured in a suicide attack targeting a mosque in Peshawar, claimed by Jamaat ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Pakistan Taliban.
  • On 29 January 2023, four security forces personnel and two civilians were killed in coordinated attacks in Balochistan province, claimed by the Balochistan Liberation Army.
  • On 26 April 2022, 4 people were killed and 4 injured in a suicide IED attack at Karachi University in Karachi, Sindh.
  • On 4 March 2022, 63 people were killed and 198 injured in a suicide bombing at a Shia Muslim Mosque in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
  • On 20 January 2022, 3 people were killed and 29 injured when an IED detonated outside a bank in Lahore, Punjab.
  • On 8 January 2022, 6 people were killed during an exchange of gunfire in Quetta, Balochistan.
  • On 30 December 2021, 4 people were killed and 15 injured when an IED detonated in Quetta, Balochistan.
  • On 5 September 2021, 4 people were killed and 19 injured in a suicide bombing in Quetta, Balochistan.
  • On 15 July 2021, 13 people were killed and 28 injured in an IED detonation in Kohistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

New Zealanders in Pakistan are advised to exercise extreme caution in public places, maintain very high levels of personal security awareness and take all possible security precautions to protect their safety. Discuss security issues with tour providers or business partners before travelling. We recommend monitoring the media and local information sources for new information on potential threats to safety and security. You should follow the advice of the local authorities and keep a low profile.

Kidnapping
 There is a significant threat of kidnapping for ransom throughout Pakistan, especially in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Foreigners are particularly at risk. Foreign nationals have been kidnapped in the past and killed or held captive for long periods of time. On 26 December 2023, a South African national was abducted in Sohrab Goth, Lahore. On 17 April 2021, two foreign nationals were kidnapped in Lahore.

New Zealanders in Pakistan are advised to seek professional security advice and ensure appropriate personal security measures are in place at all times. Travel routes and times should be varied and the use of public transport should be avoided.

Military Activity
 The Pakistan military is conducting ongoing operations against militant groups within Pakistan, largely in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. We strongly advise that New Zealanders do not travel to areas where there are reports of militant or military activity.

New Zealanders in Pakistan should also be aware that any increase in violence between Pakistani security forces and militant groups or terrorists is likely to increase the possibility of reprisal terrorist attacks, which may not be limited to the geographic area of confrontation.

Border Areas
 There is a volatile security environment along the border with India which could deteriorate without warning. With the exception of official border crossings, foreigners are prohibited from travelling within 15 kilometres of the entire border area with India, including the Kashmir Line of Control. Foreigners are also prohibited from travelling within 50 kilometres of the border with Afghanistan in Gilgit-Balistan. We strongly advise that New Zealanders do not travel to these areas.

If you must travel to Chitral district or Gilgit-Balistan despite this warning, do so by air rather than by road due to significant safety and security risks.

Violent and Petty Crime
 Violent crime, including armed car-jacking, assault and robbery, occurs in many parts of Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, Balochistan, rural Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. There is a high level of lawlessness in some of these areas requiring a high level of vigilance. Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing occurs and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. Credit card fraud is common, be aware of scams. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

There have been incidents across Pakistan of people posing as police officers with fake police ID cards, including in Islamabad.

Celebratory gunfire is illegal but common. While the likelihood of being hit is remote, it has occasionally resulted in injury and death. If you’re in Karachi on New Year’s Eve, we recommend you stay indoors from 11pm until 4am the following day (New Year’s Day), to limit exposure to celebratory gunfire.

Women should consider additional gender based risks associated with traveling, particularly if they are alone, such as harassment and verbal abuse. Honour killings and forced marriages affecting foreigners have also been reported.  Standards of domestic violence support are far lower than similar services in New Zealand.

Be aware that same-sex relations and heterosexual couples living together in Pakistan is illegal. Many hotels and similar establishments may only allow “married couples” to stay together.  Same sex couples should be prepared to stay separately while travelling.

Avoid travelling alone and outside urban areas after dark. When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times. Photo identification should be carried for presenting at police checkpoints.

Civil Unrest
 With ongoing political demonstrations since 2022, the security situation in Pakistan remains unpredictable. Civil disorder is common and can develop into violence quickly. Authorities may suspend mobile networks and close roads at short notice in response.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests, political rallies and large public gatherings in Pakistan given the potential for these to turn violent with little warning. If you are in an area affected by demonstrations or violence, you should leave the area if it is safe to do so, or find a safe location, remain indoors and follow the advice of local authorities.

Transport Safety
 Avoid using taxis and public transport (including buses and trains) due to security concerns. Only use transport services provided by hotels and accredited tour operators.

We advise against travelling on the section of the Karakoram Highway from Mansehra to Chilas, via Battagram, Besham City, Dasu and Sazin due to security risks.

General Travel Advice
Access to certain areas of Pakistan may be restricted by authorities. New Zealanders in Pakistan should be aware of, and adhere to any restrictions in place on travel.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Pakistan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Strong Islamic codes of dress and behaviour exist in Pakistan. Wearing shorts or short- sleeved clothes is not recommended.  

Blasphemy is illegal in Pakistan, and can attract severe penalties, including the death penalty. New Zealanders who have made public  comments on social media that could be construed as blasphemous should not travel to Pakistan. Those accused of blasphemy are also at risk of significant violence from the public.

Air pollution is a problem across Pakistan, especially during winter months and those with pre-existing medical conditions, the very young, or the elderly may be particularly vulnerable. If you intend to travel or live in Pakistan, you may wish to seek medical advice in advance of your trip.

The monsoon season in Pakistan is normally from late June to early October. During this time, there is a heightened risk of severe flooding and landslides. Check local weather forecasts and in the event of a flood, always follow the instructions of local authorities.

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

Photography of government buildings or installations, airports, military establishments or officials, is illegal, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture. Flying unregistered drones, importing pig products and alcohol is also illegal in Pakistan.   

New Zealanders in Pakistan 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 Pakistan – exclusions may apply.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Pakistan are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Tehran, Iran is accredited to Pakistan

Street Address No.15, Manaee St. Shahid Bahonar Ave (Niavaran), Tehran Telephone +98 919 554 0130 Email nzembassytehran@hotmail.co.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/iran Hours By appointment.

New Zealand Consulate-General Karachi, Pakistan

Street Address Suite 214-5, Glass Tower 2 Ft 3, Adjacent to PSO House Main Clifton Road Karachi 75530 Telephone + 92 21 3565 6993 Alternate Telephone +92 21 3565 6994 Email nzcgpk@gmail.com

See our regional advice for South Asia

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12 March 2024 YouTube, emojis and surfing the web – Neta is queen of them all Senior customer Neta has become a confident queen of emojis since taking part in a digital literacy course at her Kāinga Ora complex in South Auckland.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Neta and nine of her neighbours were invited by Kāinga Ora to join a free, 8-week digital literacy course run in partnership with 360 Tautua Trust, an organisation supporting elderly Pasifika.

“It’s very relaxed and friendly, we were all learning together and we had lots of fun along the way,” says Neta.

Before the course, Neta had only basic technology skills and felt overwhelmed when she tried to use websites or apps. Her children and grandchildren were agile users of smartphones and laptops, but Neta was out of the loop.

The course aims to educate participants about how to use the internet safely, steer clear of scams, email and browse websites, take and store photographs, and use apps – particularly banking apps, MyKaingaOra and MyMSD.

“The programmes are specifically designed to suit our elderly whānau, to help build their knowledge and enhance their lives when using technology,” explains trainer Fa’aulu from 360 Tautua.

To celebrate completing the course, a graduation ceremony was held and Neta was proud to receive a certificate – “the first certificate of my life,” she says.

The course was led in both Sāmoan and English, and at the end each participant could buy a Chromebook for just $50 so they could stay connected from home.

Neta says her newfound skills in technology have helped unlock the digital world – she particularly enjoys watching YouTube videos and chatting with her grandchildren by video call.

And her daughter Florence says it’s plain to see how Neta’s confidence has improved since the course.

“She used to say, ‘Oh, I don’t know how to do this’ but now she’ll say, ‘OK, I can do that’ and ‘I wonder what this is? Let me have a look’. And she’s very good with emojis!”

At Kāinga Ora, we’re proud to support the wellbeing of our customers by offering opportunities for learning to stay connected in the digital world.   

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Ramadan 2024

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

Ramadan 2024

Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, will be observed from approximately 10 March to 8 April 2024. The exact timing depends on sightings of the moon which will vary from country to country.

 

In some Muslim countries it is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan. This may attract the attention of local authorities.

 

New Zealanders are advised to respect the religious and social traditions of the country they are in to avoid offending local sensitivities, and should seek local advice on appropriate behaviour during this time. People who are not fasting are recommended to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in the presence of those who are fasting.

 

Roads can be busier and traffic more unpredictable than usual during Ramadan, particularly during the afternoon and early evening, so greater caution and patience is encouraged at this time.

 

During this period some restaurants, businesses and tourist facilities may be closed between sunrise and sunset, or operate with amended opening hours. Seek local advice and plan accordingly.

 

This article should be read in conjunction with our country-specific travel advisories.

Posted:11 Mar 2024, 13:09

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International Women’s Day Fair Food High Tea

Source: New Zealand Governor General

E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

 

A warm welcome to you all, and I specifically acknowledge 

  • Michelle Blau, General Manager of Fair Food, and
  • Aroha Hudson, Chief Executive of HealthWest

In my message to UN Women Aotearoa to mark International Women’s Day this year, I made particular mention of their assistance to women in crisis around the world.

Today, I am very pleased to mark International Women’s Day with wāhine of Tāmaki Makaurau, and to acknowledge the help you give to people living in crisis situations in this region.

Kindness can sometimes seem like an under-rated virtue, but this whakatauki would suggest otherwise:

He taonga rongonui te aroha ki te tangata – goodwill towards others is a precious treasure.

However, we know kind regard is not enough. What matters are kind deeds. 

I am not surprised Fair Food has its origins in West Auckland. Having grown up there – with some of you who are here today – I remember people who worked tirelessly to make things better for other people in their community. 

When they saw a societal need, they didn’t sit back and wait until things got better. They got stuck in and did something about it.

Food rescue groups around Aotearoa were started in the same way, by people who couldn’t sit by and do nothing about food insecurity. 

What makes your kaupapa so special is that in addition to extending manaakitanga to people who can’t feed themselves and their families, you have also diverted so much food from landfills.

It’s a kaupapa that absolutely aligns with my own strategic goals while I am Governor-General: to do what I can to promote the wellbeing of my fellow citizens and the environment; to celebrate our diversity and our common humanity; and to promote the pursuit of expert knowledge, so that our decision-making is informed and effective.

I know from my visit to Fair Food last year what a complex logistical operation it is. It cannot function without food donors, funders, supporters, volunteers and staff members, or the partner organisations that distribute the food in the community. You all play a vital part in supporting Fair Food’s operations.

It must be very satisfying to know that the many tons of food you have rescued over the years have nourished so many thousands of people across Tamaki Makaurau. 

I understand there are plans to make sure mothers have a special meal on Mothers’ Day, particularly those who may often go without in order to feed their children. I am sure it’s a gesture that will be very much appreciated. 

This afternoon, I hope you can step aside from your routine responsibilities and enjoy connecting with other wāhine who have become part of the Fair Food story. 

On International Women’s Day, when we take time to celebrate the strength, contributions and achievements of women in our communities, I thank you again for your aroha, your commitment, and the positive impact of your work on the lives of your fellow New Zealanders – and on the environment that sustains us all. 

I realise you may be much more comfortable extending manaakitanga than being on the receiving end – but today is your day. 

Please enjoy the hospitality of Government House, and I look forward to meeting you all shortly.

 

 

 

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8 March 2024 New homes welcomed in Ruakākā Neighbours, local hapū, community leaders, build partners and contractors, all joined Kāinga Ora, to celebrate six newly completed homes in Ruakākā.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Delivered by Kāinga Ora in partnership with Landforce Developments, the single-level, stand-alone homes, with outdoor space and a car park, were welcomed with open arms by the community.

The homes have a 6-Homestar rating, meaning they are highly energy efficient and were built to full universal design standards, meaning they have features such as wider doors and level entry access that make them accessible to everyone.

Jo Haunui, Regional Placements Manager for Kāinga Ora in Northland, said the new homes will help meet demand for public housing in the Whangarei District region, in line with the Public Housing Plan.

“Following a formal karakia whakawātea (blessing ceremony) carried out by local hapū Patuharakeke, we were proud to open these beautiful homes with a hapū led ceremony and a moving performance by the amazingly talented children from Ruakākā Primary School’s Kapa Haka Group.

“We know the stability and positive impact these homes will have on the whānau matched to these homes and we’re really excited to hand over the keys. Five of the six homes have already been tenanted to locals, and the first customers will start moving in this weekend,” she said.

Karl Bryant, Development Design Manager at Landforce Developments, said they were proud to deliver these quality modern homes alongside local contractors for the Ruakākā community.

“These homes, constructed to HomeStar Level 6 standards, represent our commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive housing solutions that cater to diverse needs within the community. We believe that accessibility is not just a feature but a fundamental aspect of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and empowered.

“I also wish to extend our sincerest gratitude to Kāinga Ora for their collaboration and support throughout this project and all our contractors for their tireless mahi on the job,” he said.

Ruakākā Primary School’s kapa haka group

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2024 Caring Families Aotearoa Excellence in Foster Care Awards

Source: New Zealand Governor General

E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

I specifically acknowledge: Hon Karen Chhour Minister for Children; Hon Matt Doocey, Minister for Youth; Arran Jones, Chief Executive, Independant Children’s Monitor; Dr Claire Achmad, Chief Children’s Commissioner, Children and Young People’s Commission.

My warmest welcome to everyone here today. This event is a highlight in the Government House calendar, and it’s a great privilege to host the recipients of this year’s Excellence in Foster Care Awards.

I welcome this opportunity to recognise selfless caregivers, our unsung heroes, who see children in need and give them a chance to heal and experience a secure and supportive home environment.

It’s a sad reality that children have absolutely no control over the circumstances of their birth, home life and upbringing – and when those circumstances are difficult, they live with the lasting impacts into their adult years.

Thanks to the Dunedin Longitudinal Study, we now have clear proof of those impacts. 

The Study has been closely monitoring the progress of a group of people, from their birth in Dunedin 50 years ago through to the present day. 

An extraordinary wealth of data has been gathered. It shows clear links between deprivation in childhood and poor outcomes in neurological development, education, employment, relationships, and physical and mental health. These outcomes are tragic for the individuals concerned, and they also come at great social and economic cost to our communities.

Fortunately, we also know that positive intervention in childhood can and does make a difference. 

I know this from my professional experience as a health researcher and former Children’s Commissioner. And now as Governor-General, I see evidence of it through my engagement with schools, social agencies and communities.

Last year, a young man I was interviewing for selection as a Rhodes Scholar made a particular point of crediting his foster parents for his confidence and success in life. The kindness and support he experienced in their home has encouraged him to be an outstanding scholar, as well as a passionate advocate for children in care. 

Today we will have an opportunity to hear stories of years of devotion and commitment to excellence in foster care.

These stories can only scratch the surface, but they give some indication of the aroha and manaakitanga extended to the children in their care. 

As a society, we are indeed fortunate to have such good people who are prepared to take on the 24/7 duty of care for a child, and all the responsibilities that entails. I acknowledge some children will arrive with complex issues, and not every story can have a happy ending. Nevertheless, these caregivers will have done their very best to empower children to become more secure, confident and hopeful for their future. 

I thank you, on behalf of all New Zealanders, for choosing to take that path in your lives. Thank you for healing hurt, for building esteem, for helping children make meaningful connections, and bringing the possibility of joy and hope to their lives.  

Please enjoy this special time in Wellington, and this rare break from your responsibilities. You justly deserve the recognition you are receiving today. I am delighted to be able to acknowledge your humanity, compassion and care, and to extend Government House manaakitanga to you.

No reira, tēna koutou, tēna koutou, tēna koutou katoa.

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7 March 2024 New apartments mark completion of 34 home development in Christchurch 16 new 1-bedroom apartments have now been delivered by Kāinga Ora in Bryndwr, Christchurch, marking the completion of a significant redevelopment at Clyde and Aorangi Roads and Bevin Place.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

This adds to the 18 new homes completed on the 8,124m2 site last year, which are a mix of 2, 3, 4 and 5-bedroom homes, bringing the total number of homes delivered by this project to 34.

Canterbury Regional Director Liz Krause says the completion of this development will help meet some of the demand for more public housing in the city.

The playground at the centre of the development

“Redeveloping this site and making better use of the land has enabled us to provide more homes for people and whānau in an area of the city that has good access to transport, schools, shops and recreational facilities.

“The whānau that get to call this development home are able to make use of a communal garden, a play area and plenty of green space – which are stand-out features of the site.

“Whānau who moved into the homes completed last year have given us great feedback about living in their new homes.

“The feedback has focused on how well the homes and their modern designs work for them and their whānau, and how there is a real sense of community amongst neighbours.

Kāinga Ora customers will be moving into the final 16 new homes over the coming weeks.

“It’s so good to see our customers settling into this wonderful community now this development has been completed,” says Liz.

The Clyde, Aorangi and Bevin project is one of many planned for Bryndwr and Burnside over the next two years.

Cantabrians can now keep up to date on our projects in their neighbourhood by visiting our new Canterbury interactive maps..

Some of the other homes completed at the development

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Nepal

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

  • Reviewed: 7 March 2024, 11:42 NZDT
  • Still current at: 7 March 2024

Related news features

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 Nepal due to the potential for political rallies and protests to result in civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

Nepal

Civil Unrest
Political rallies and demonstrations are common in Nepal. On occasion demonstrations have turned violent with clashes between protestors and security forces. In the past these protests have resulted in a number of deaths and injuries.

New Zealanders in Nepal are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as there is an increased risk of violence at such events. We recommend monitoring local media for information on developments, following the instructions or advice of local authorities, including adhering to any curfews issued. 

Bandhs (large scale shutdowns) are a form of protest which occur from time to time in Nepal. These are usually peaceful however sometimes result in violence between demonstrators and security forces. You should note that bandhs can occur at short notice, be highly disruptive and involve the closure of business, schools and transport routes. Both domestic and international transport is often severely affected. Essential supplies can be difficult to obtain. We recommend avoiding unnecessary travel during these periods.

Crime
Crime against foreigners in Nepal includes sexual offences, harassment and theft. Foreigners have been targeted at tourist sites, airports, hotel rooms and buses. Pickpocketing is common particularly around the tourist spots in Kathmandu and during festival gatherings. We advise New Zealanders to exercise security awareness and guard personal belongings carefully. Women travellers should take particular care and avoid travelling alone, especially at night.

Terrorism
There is a threat from terrorism in Nepal. New Zealanders in Nepal 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.

Trekking
If you decide to trek in Nepal you should keep your family and friends regularly updated regarding your location and intended route. Notify them if you intend to enter an area with limited telephone or internet coverage, as unexplained breaks in usual communication patterns can cause concern.

Altitude sickness is a risk in all trekking regions above 9000 feet (2700 metres). Trekking in Nepal should be done with a group using an experienced guide from a reputable company. Ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a danger to your safety.

Trekkers must go through an authorised trekking company and a licenced trekking guide. Trekkers cannot solo trek and you must comply with mandatory guide routes which are well maintained and monitored. Do not trek alone. Solo trekkers have been robbed and/or assaulted and female trekkers should be particularly vigilant due to the risk of sexual assault.  

Seismic Activity
Nepal is in an active seismic area and earthquakes are common. There is an ongoing possibility of further earthquakes, which increases the risk of avalanches and landslides. Familiarise yourself with general safety procedures in the event of an earthquake.

Road Travel
Travel on public buses and vans can be dangerous and there are frequent accidents resulting in fatalities, some of which involve foreign tourists. Poor road conditions, driving standards as well as overcrowded and under-maintained vehicles all contribute to the risk. We recommend avoiding travel on overloaded or crowded vehicles and overnight buses.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Nepal should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation by air, as well as cancelled flights. You should ensure that your insurance policy provides cover for all of the activities you intend undertaking while in Nepal, such as trekking, rafting and mountain climbing.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Nepal are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

The New Zealand High Commission New Delhi, India is accredited to Nepal

Street Address Sir Edmund Hillary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India Telephone +91 11 4688 3170 Fax +91 11 4688 3165 Email nzhcindia@mfat.net Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/asia/india/new-zealand-high-commission/ Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1700 hrs

New Zealand Consulate Kathmandu, Nepal

Street Address Ms Lisa Choegyal, Honorary Consul Postal Address 31 Chundevi Marg, Maharajgunj Telephone +9771 472 0580 Alternate Telephone +977 9849786967 (After hours) Mobile +977 9851025690 Email nzconsulate@tigermountain.com.np

See our regional advice for South Asia

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6 March 2024 Feeding our wild friends at the zoo When two Kāinga Ora sites were cleared in West Auckland recently, we were delighted to be able to donate vegetation to the very hungry residents of Auckland Zoo.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Sites earmarked for clearance can be rich sources of kai for animals. Edible foliage such as twigs, branches, shoots and leaves, is known as “browse” and is in hot demand at Auckland Zoo.

“Browse is an important and nutritious part of an animal’s diet,” explains Ruth Nielsen, from the browse team at Auckland Zoo. “From the tallest mammal on earth, the giraffe, to Aotearoa New Zealand’s giant wētāpunga, browse benefits so many species here.”

Adored elephant Burma eating banana palm from a Kāinga Ora site

Given the voracious appetites of wild animals, the zoo needs a constant and plentiful supply of browse, so Kāinga Ora leapt at another opportunity to contribute to a good cause.

“Being able to support the zoo is a privilege,” says Liz Ellis, a Stakeholder Relationship Manager for Kāinga Ora. “Any tree trimming and clearing is done in line with our commitment to improving biodiversity and urban ngāhere outcomes(external link), and we are always looking for new ways to work with the local community while reducing waste in our projects. This initiative makes our hearts sing.”

Kaimahi from the zoo’s browse team joined Kāinga Ora staff onsite to choose suitable plants, then worked directly with our arborist, Treetops, to collect the browse.

“Treetops gave us access to the site on the day, saving us a lot of time and energy by felling and removing the plants, then loading up our trucks. It was the easiest collection we have ever had. We ended up filling three truckloads to capacity!” says Ruth.

Browse also has uses beyond kai for animals. One of the ways zookeepers use browse is to encourage an animal’s natural foraging behaviour. For example, in the wild, orangutans are known to make tools from items they find around them. They can strip down leafy branches to create instruments to extract kai such as lentils or pureed vegetables within a frozen pinecone.

“The wide variety and large volume of vegetation covered half a week’s worth of browse needed for the zoo. We collect at least 140 bushy, 2-metre long branches for our giraffes each week.

“Banana is a fantastic plant for the primates and elephant Burma will munch through many plants each week. Bottlebrush flowers are a favourite for birds and primates; they love the sweet nectar and Burma will eat the branches and leaves. And our big cats love the lavender; new, fragrant vegetation is great enrichment for them.”

Happy munching to our wild friends at Auckland Zoo(external link)!

Squirrel monkeys at Auckland Zoo munching on pōhutukawa and Burma the elephant eating banana palm

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Haiti

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

Haiti

On 3 March 2024, prisoners escaped after gangs overwhelmed security forces at the main prison in Port au Prince, Haiti’s capital. The government has declared a state of emergency for 72 hours, with a curfew from 6pm to 5am each day.

If you are currently in Haiti, you should consider leaving via commercial options, if you can do so safely.