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Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Kyrgyzstan
Border Areas
Tensions exist over recognition of the Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan borders. There have been violent clashes along the borders involving shelling and the exchange of gunfire.
Border regions with Kyrgyzstan are known to be used as a transit point for smuggling and cross-border criminal activity.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Kuwait
Terrorism
Terrorism is an ongoing threat in Kuwait. There is a continued threat of attacks in the Gulf region, including on Western interests, residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests. Places of worship have been attacked in the past. Further attacks are possible and could be indiscriminate.
New Zealanders in Kuwait are advised to maintain a high level of personal security awareness, particularly in public places known to be frequented by foreigners.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 hurricane is expected to impact the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula with dangerous hurricane-force winds, life-threatening storm surges, and heavy rainfall in the coming days.
The National Water Commission of Mexico (CONAGUA) and the Mexican Civil Defence agency are issuing advice on their X accounts @conagua_mx and @CNPC_MX.
You can also track the information in English on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website: HURRICANE MILTON (noaa.gov).
Hurricane Milton is then expected to make landfall in Florida on Wednesday 9 October as a Category 4 hurricane or stronger. The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) is issuing advice on their website: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ and additional information is available on the State of Florida’s website:
https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide
We also advise New Zealanders in the affected areas to follow the advice of local authorities at all times (including any evacuation orders) and seek suitable shelter. Visitors and tourists staying in travel accommodation should follow the guidance of hotel/resort management. It is considered sensible practice not to venture outdoors during a hurricane and remain well away from the sea and rivers. We recommend you stay informed of developments by monitoring local news and weather reports.
Please also ensure you keep your family and friends in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being, including after the hurricane has passed.
New Zealanders in Mexico or the United States requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services by calling 911.
If you require consular assistance, please contact:
New Zealand Embassy in Mexico City on: +52 55 5283 9460 or nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz
New Zealand Embassy in Washington DC on: +1 202 438 4800 or WSHinfo@mfat.govt.nz
For consular emergencies only after-hours on +64 99 20 20 20.
Associated Advisories:
Posted:8 Oct 2024, 11:50
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Severe flooding is currently impacting parts of Central and Eastern Europe, particularly Czech Republic, Slovakia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
New Zealanders are advised to follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (including evacuation orders), and to international media and other sources of information, including social media, to stay informed of the latest developments and advice. New Zealanders should stay in contact with family and friends to keep them informed of your plans and well-being.
In the event of an emergency, dial the European-wide emergency number: 112.
New Zealanders requiring consular assistance should contact the relevant New Zealand Embassy or Consulate. Details of New Zealand’s diplomatic representation in Europe can be found here: New Zealand Embassy locator | SafeTravel.
For consular emergencies, contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 or +64 99 20 20 20.
For all New Zealanders either living or travelling overseas, you can register your details with SafeTravel. If you register with us, we’re able to relay important information to you, as part of New Zealand’s consular response to an overseas emergency.
Associated Advisories:
Updated:8 Oct 2024, 11:49
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
The security situation in Lebanon continues to be volatile. There are ongoing Israeli military airstrikes in southern Beirut and southern Lebanon. Israeli military ground operations in southern Lebanon are likely to continue. Tensions are high and the conflict could deteriorate quickly or spread to other areas in Lebanon with little warning. Your ability to move to safety could be impacted. We continue to advise that New Zealanders do not travel to Lebanon. If you are currently in Lebanon, our advice remains that New Zealanders should leave now.
New Zealanders in Lebanon are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to receive the latest advice and information.
Flight availability is now limited, and increasingly expensive. We encourage New Zealanders in Lebanon to continue working with airlines and their travel agent to secure departure bookings as soon as they become available. When we become aware of flight opportunities for New Zealanders we are communicating these via the SafeTravel registration system.
New Zealanders who wish to depart Lebanon should ensure they have valid travel documents and, if required, appropriate visas for onward travel.
Be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Make sure you have enough supplies including food, water, medicine, radio, torches and batteries. Know where your identity documents are, including your passport.
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Lebanon, the ability of the New Zealand Government to provide assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Lebanon should consider.
New Zealanders in Lebanon requiring consular assistance can contact the New Zealand Embassy in Cairo (accredited to Lebanon) on +202 2461 9186 or at enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg and for consular emergencies after-hours on +64 99 20 20 20.
Associated Advisories:
Reviewed:4 Oct 2024, 16:35
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
On 7 October 2023, rockets were fired from Gaza across southern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. There is currently a large-scale ongoing conflict occurring in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza and within Gaza. Israel has expanded its ground operations in Gaza and military operations are ongoing.
There are also ongoing Israeli military airstrikes in southern Beirut and southern Lebanon as well as regular exchanges of mortar and artillery fire. We are providing more information on the security situation in Lebanon here.
The security situation remains highly volatile and fluid. New Zealanders should leave Israel, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lebanon and Iran now, while options remain available. International borders (air and land) could close at short notice. Your travel may be impacted.
Regional tensions in the Middle East are high and could escalate quickly, and the security situation could deteriorate further with little or no notice. In an attack or other armed conflict, you should follow the advice of local authorities. Increased tensions may also result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions and other travel disruptions.
Demonstrations and unrest linked to the situation in the Middle East are occurring in countries worldwide. If you’re travelling overseas, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Monitor local and international media for information about possible safety or security risks.
Departures – Israel
New Zealanders who are wanting to leave Israel, but are unable to, can contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.
Flight schedules and operations could change or be interrupted at any time. We strongly recommend that New Zealanders in Israel depart now, while options remain available.
Departures – Occupied Palestinian Territories
Options to depart the Occupied Palestinian Territories are extremely limited.
If you are a New Zealander in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and wish to depart, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 consular emergency line on + 64 99 20 20 20.
Iran
Regional tensions in the Middle East are high and could escalate quickly. This may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations, diversions and other travel disruptions.
The security situation could deteriorate further with little or no notice. In an attack or other armed conflict, support from the New Zealand government may be limited.
Current advice for New Zealanders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Read our full updated travel advisory here. New Zealanders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories should adhere to any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities, such as curfews and travel restrictions. Areas of military activity should be avoided at all times. If you are in an affected area, shelter in place until it is safe to leave.
New Zealanders throughout the region are advised to remain security conscious. The security situation remains volatile, and violence could escalate at short notice. Should New Zealanders wish to remain in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories against our advice, we advise you to monitor the media and stay informed of developments. Please also contact your loved ones back home to let them know that you are safe.
We provide general advice on contingency planning for New Zealanders overseas to consider here.
Advice for New Zealanders considering travel elsewhere in the Middle East
If you are currently travelling in, or considering travel to, other countries in the region, you should read our travel advice before travelling for the latest information. Make sure you register your details on SafeTravel so that you receive any updates to our advice while travelling.
Monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination.
All New Zealanders travelling overseas should take out comprehensive travel insurance.
Consular Assistance
If you require consular assistance, please contact the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.
The New Zealand Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye covers Israel and can be contacted at +90 312 446 3333 or at newzealandembassyankara@gmail.com.
The New Zealand Embassy in Cairo, Egypt covers the Occupied Palestinian Territories and can be contacted at +202 2461 9186 or at enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg.
The New Zealand Embassy in Tehran, Iran can be contacted on +98 212 273 5962 or at nzembassytehran@hotmail.co.nz
Associated Advisories:
Reviewed:2 Oct 2024, 18:01
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
Typhoon Krathon is expected to impact Taiwan from Wednesday 2 October. You should expect strong winds, heavy rain and storm surges during this time.
Up to date information on Typhoon Krathon can be found on the Central Weather Administration website: Home | Central Weather Administration (cwa.gov.tw) We also recommend that you stay informed of developments by monitoring local media.
We advise New Zealanders in Taiwan to follow the advice of the local authorities at all times and seek suitable shelter. Visitors and tourists staying in travel accommodation should follow the guidance of hotel/resort management. It is considered sensible practice not to venture outdoors during a typhoon and remain well away from the sea and rivers.
Please also ensure you keep your family and friends in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being, including after the typhoon has passed.
If you require emergency assistance, local emergency services can be contacted via the following numbers: Fire and Ambulance (119) and Police (110).
New Zealanders requiring consular assistance can contact the New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office in Taipei between 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and between 9am and 12.30pm on Friday on +886 2 2720 5228 or email nzcio.tpe@msa.hinet.net. For after-hours emergency consular assistance for New Zealanders please call +64 9 920 2020.
Associated Advisories:
Posted:2 Oct 2024, 08:57
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
New Zealand citizens planning on travelling to the UK or within Europe and the Schengen Zone should be aware of upcoming changes to border controls.
UK Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
From 8 January the UK government is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
New Zealand passport holders travelling to the UK visa free will need to apply for an ETA. New Zealanders will be able to apply for an ETA from 27 November 2024.
More information including how to apply for a UK ETA, is on this UK government website.
Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Further guidance is available here Electronic travel authorisation (ETA): help videos – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Entering and exiting the Schengen Area
New Zealand travellers should be aware that from November 2024, the EU will introduce a digital border system to strengthen the security of its external Schengen border.
The new registration process is called the Entry/Exit System (EES). The EU has not yet confirmed a specific date in November for the introduction of the EES.
The EES will register when non-EU nationals cross external borders of Schengen countries and will more accurately identify overstayers. It will require most citizens of countries outside the EU to create a digital record and register biometric details, such as fingerprints and photos, when then enter the Schengen area. The EES will replace passport stamping.
New Zealanders travelling to Europe can still enter visa-free, but the length of time you can stay may vary depending on where you are travelling. You need to know what the visa-free travel rules are to ensure you don’t overstay. Read the visa/entry information on the websites of the Embassies of the relevant EU/Schengen countries you intend to visit or transit (e.g. the French Embassy in Wellington if you are intending to travel to France. You may also like to consult with a travel agent.
More information can also be found on our Safe Travel page here: Travel tips – travel to Europe | SafeTravel.
In addition, from sometime in the first half of 2025 travellers will also be required to complete an European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorisation before travelling. Further information about the ETIAS can be found on the EU’s official travel website here.
As the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not issue visas for foreign countries, we cannot provide definitive advice on the requirements to enter or exit countries within Europe and the Schengen area. Our New Zealand Embassies and High Commissions overseas also cannot advise on your right to enter or stay in a foreign country.
Associated Advisories:
Updated:20 Sep 2024, 12:57
Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora
Kāinga Ora homes in the little town just south of Auckland are amongst the hundreds of older state houses across New Zealand being extensively refurbished as part of our Retrofit Programme. The programme is designed to make our homes warmer, drier and healthier, places that tenants are proud to call home.
“When we walked in, we were like ‘Wow!’” recalls Eteta. “We already love living in Tuakau because it’s quiet and safe, the kids can walk to school, and I can walk to work. Now the house looks brand new – and we love it!
Eteta and her partner Alexander are especially happy that their kitchen-dining area has been opened up because now there’s space for the young family to eat together. The bathroom has been reconfigured too, and the home has new windows, doors and a heat pump, making it cosy for winter. In addition, the house has fresh paint, new carpets and improved layouts in the kitchen and bathroom.
Just along the road from Eteta’s whānau is customer Beverly. She loves her renovated home so much that she wants to buy it.
“If I won the lottery, I’d buy this house. It’s beautiful now and I’m so proud of it.”
Beverly’s home, a three-bedroom weatherboard and tile house, dates back to 1983 before open-plan living was popular and it’s been reconfigured to create a more spacious kitchen-dining area.
“I absolutely love the kitchen; there’s more storage space and it’s very easy to clean. That means a lot to me because I have heart problems and limited mobility.”
Amazingly, it’s the third time Beverly has lived in this particular house. The first time was when it was new and she was a young mother; the next time was when she returned to the area with older children, and most recently she moved back after the retrofit.
“All my family’s memories are in this home. We know all our neighbours and we just love it here. I’m so happy about how smart my house looks now.
“It’s also a big relief to know the power bills will be lower now. We used to bring our mattresses into the lounge at night to save on the heating, but we don’t have to do that anymore. The house is much warmer.”
Retrofitting includes full insulation, double glazing and improved air tightness, making homes fit for a further 50 years’ use.
It can be more efficient and sustainable to retrofit rather than build new, making use of existing materials rather than demolishing and building new homes.
And it supports tenants’ wellbeing by enabling them to stay in their homes and communities, in warmer and drier conditions.
Beverlys new kitchen is light and spacious
Page updated: 7 October 2024
Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora
“We’re going to dig a garden out back. I bought a lemon tree the other day and I have a couple of camellia trees. We’re also going to have to paint our picnic table. It’s a beautiful garden,” Michelle says.
The couple, both of whom live with significant health conditions, recently moved to their new home with their 10-year-old and 13-year-old sons, Sparkle the dog and Simon the cat from another Kāinga Ora home in Greymouth, where they had lived for 20 years.
Michelle and Ché’s new home was significantly improved and upgraded as part of the Kāinga Ora retrofit programme, which aims to make older homes warmer, drier, healthier and more energy efficient.
After waiting for a larger home that would better suit their family for some time, Michelle says she’s over the moon to now live in an upgraded three-bedroom home.
“We can actually breathe. The kids have their own space and we have a much bigger area that suits us,” Michelle says.
The family is also excited about exploring their new neighbourhood after moving from central Greymouth to Cobden. “The neighbours are lovely and we’re close to the beach. We’re going to the beach at the weekend. Letting the waves just wash over our feet is great for our mental health. My son loves collecting stones and sticks so he’ll do that,” Michelle explains.
Keen fisherman Ché is also looking forward to surfcasting off the beach. “I do a lot of fishing around here. Whitebaiting, kawai fishing and I do trout fishing in the Grey River,” he says.
Michelle says they are already counting down to Christmas with extended family in their new, more spacious home. “I can’t wait to put up the Christmas tree and I can decorate it any time. I’m so thankful for this house. This is a home that I’m happy to live in.”
Page updated: 3 October 2024