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.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

United Kingdom

Terrorism
There is a heightened threat of terrorism across Europe, including in the United Kingdom.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to take account of the terrorism threat level assigned by the United Kingdom Security Service when making travel decisions. There is also an enduring threat of Northern Ireland-related terrorism.

The UK has a long history of terrorist attacks which have caused multiple deaths and injuries.

On 14 November 2021, there was an explosion outside a hospital in Liverpool, killing one person.

On 29 November 2019, a stabbing attack took place near London Bridge killing two people and injuring three others.

On 14 August 2018, a vehicle drove into the barriers outside the Houses of Parliament in London, injuring two people.

On 15 September 2017, there was an explosion at Parsons Green Underground Tube Station in London, causing a number of injuries.

On 3 June 2017, a terror attack took place on London Bridge and nearby Borough Market killing seven people and injuring a number of others.

On 22 May 2017, an attack at a music concert held at the Manchester Arena killed 22 people with over 100 others injured.

On 22 March 2017, an attacker drove a vehicle through pedestrians before stabbing a police officer near the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London, also killing three people and injuring a number of others.

Terrorist groups, individuals returning to the United Kingdom and Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in the United Kingdom and across Europe. There is also a threat from domestic-based violent extremists. Groups adhering to various violent extremist ideologies have conducted attacks in the past, some have been indiscriminate; targeting places of worship, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs, major events and tourist areas.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to be vigilant, particularly in public places. Follow any instructions issued by local authorities and stay informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. United Kingdom security personnel maintain an increased presence in public places as a precautionary measure.

Northern Ireland
Although the political situation in Northern Ireland has improved since the 1998 peace agreement, incidents of violence continue to occur. Attacks primarily target Northern Ireland security forces and law enforcement, but banks and other commercial entities have also been targeted in the past.

From late March 2021, there have been a number of incidents including street violence, rioting, and attacks on police that have occurred in west and south Belfast, Londonderry and areas of County Antrim.

The annual summer marching parades which occur during the period April to August, and particularly on and around 12 July, have the potential to turn violent. We recommend you avoid them.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag and mobile phone snatching, pickpocketing and mugging is common, especially in urban centers, tourist locations and on public transport. Thieves sometimes impersonate undercover police officers. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard their personal belongings. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles are known to occur, particularly in tourist areas and roadside rest areas.  Knife-related crime and drink and drug-spiking is prevalent across the United Kingdom and can lead to sexual assault. The Met Police has advice on personal safety.

Only use licensed taxi or transport services. There have been reports of travellers being sexually assaulted and mugged in unlicensed taxis and minicabs. Transport for London maintains a website with additional information on how to travel safer within London.

Beware of ATM and credit card fraud. Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks. When using ATMs and credit cards, keep your card in sight, conceal your PIN and check your bank statements.  Visit Action Fraud for more information about fraud and cybercrime in the United Kingdom.

Civil Unrest
We recommend you avoid all protests and demonstrations as civil disorder can quickly escalate and result in property damage and violence. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.  Keep aware of your surroundings and monitor media to keep up to date with any developments.  Expect an increased security force presence in areas where demonstrations are taking place.  Follow the instructions of local authorities.

General Travel Advice
Immigration regulations are strictly enforced in the United Kingdom. For more information, see the official UK Visa and Immigration website.

New Zealanders travelling or living in the United Kingdom should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

The devolved nations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland provide their own advice and guidance.  Refer to local authorities for the latest information. 

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand High Commission London, United Kingdom

Street Address 1 Pall Mall East, London, SW1Y 5AU, United Kingdom Telephone +44 20 7930 8422 Fax +44 20 7839 4580 Email enquiries@nzhc.uk Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/de/countries-and-regions/europe/united-kingdom/new-zealand-high-commission/ Hours Mon – Fri 0900 – 1700 hrs

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Belfast, United Kingdom

Postal Address Glendinning House, 6 Murray Street, Belfast BT1 6DN Telephone +44 (0) 7712 188773 Email nzconsulbelfast@nzhc.uk

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Telephone +44 (0)20 7930 8422 Email nzconsulscotland@nzhc.uk

See our regional advice for Europe

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

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

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

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

Morocco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Madrid, Spain is accredited to Morocco

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

See our regional advice for Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:30 Aug 2024, 14:27

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

What is Oropouche virus?  

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

 

  Symptoms

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

 

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

 

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

 

Vaccines and treatment

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

 

Oropouche outbreak in South America and imported cases in Europe

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

 

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

 

Most at risk people and travel advice

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

 

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

 

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

 

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:27 Aug 2024, 06:15