Multimedia Investments Ltd
Auto Added by WPeMatico
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 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 the eastern and northern regions of Mauritania, or to Mauritania’s border areas with Algeria, Mali and Western Sahara due to the risk of military activities, the actions of extremist groups, and the risk of armed banditry and kidnapping. Anyone entering the border area could be considered a legitimate military target. Land mines are also present along the border with Western Sahara (level 4 of 4).
Do not travel to the provinces of Tiris Zemmour, Adrar, Tagant, Hodh ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, Assaba, and Guidimaka due to the risk of armed banditry and kidnapping (level 4 of 4).
Avoid non-essential travel elsewhere in Mauritania, including the Nouakchott to Nouadhibou corridor, due to the threat of kidnapping, terrorism and the unpredictable security situation (level 3 of 4).
Mauritania
Kidnapping
There is an ongoing threat of kidnapping against foreigners throughout Mauritania. Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and other groups have specifically targeted and kidnapped foreigners in parts of North Africa and pose a significant security threat in Mauritania. There is a heightened risk of kidnapping in border and remote desert areas of North Africa. There remains a strong possibility that kidnapped foreigners could be on-sold to terrorist groups.
New Zealanders should maintain a low profile and a high level of vigilance at all times. Ensure appropriate personal security measures are in place and avoid unnecessary travel in remote areas. Travel routes and times should be varied to avoid establishing a predictable routine.
Terrorism
There is a high threat from terrorism in Mauritania. Terrorist attacks could be directed against any locations known to be frequented by foreigners, as well as premises and symbols associated with the Government of Mauritania. The porous nature of borders in the region means terrorist groups are able to operate across borders and carry out attacks anywhere in the region.
New Zealanders are advised to monitor the media for information about threats to safety and security in Mauritania and to follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities.
Violent Crime
Violent crime is common in Mauritania. There have been reports of carjackings, burglaries, armed robberies and other crime affecting foreigners in the capital Nouakchott. We recommend you avoid the beach at Nouakchott and Le Cinquième district at night. Bandits are active across Mauritania, particularly in remote areas.
New Zealanders are advised to avoid travelling alone, after dark, and to isolated areas and to avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery.
When travelling by car, keep doors locked and windows up at all times and hide valuables from view. If you plan on travelling beyond Nouakchott, we advise seeking reputable local advice, travelling in convoy with adequate security and registering your plans with local police. Armed thieves have attacked cars in the north and on roads between Mauritania and Mali.
Civil Unrest
Demonstrations occur from time to time in Mauritania, particularly in Nouakchott. Most are peaceful although some have involved clashes between security forces and demonstrators.
New Zealanders in Mauritania are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as these may turn violent with little warning. These can cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Mauritania, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited.
Carry ID, especially when travelling outside urban areas (where you may encounter many police road checks). You should comply promptly with directions from the police and other Mauritanian security forces.
Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour in Mauritania to avoid offending local sensitivities.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Mauritania should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should also check your travel insurance covers travel to Mauritania – exclusions may apply.
New Zealanders in Mauritania are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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 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
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
Postal Address Glendinning House, 6 Murray Street, Belfast BT1 6DN Telephone +44 (0) 7712 188773 Email nzconsulbelfast@nzhc.uk
Telephone +44 (0)20 7930 8422 Email nzconsulscotland@nzhc.uk
See our regional advice for Europe