Category: Pacific Region

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 South Sudan due to ongoing armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime (level 4 of 4).

New Zealanders currently in South Sudan are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so.

South Sudan

Armed Conflict/Civil Unrest
Pockets of armed conflict between government and various opposition forces remain and the security situation in Juba has the potential to deteriorate with little or no warning. Land routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked and flights may be cancelled at short notice. The political and security situation throughout South Sudan remains volatile.

Inter-ethnic violence and cattle raiding continues to occur throughout the country, with significant loss of life. There is a complete absence of rule of law outside of the capital Juba and even in Juba, the capacity of the authorities to uphold law and order is very limited.

Areas within 40 kilometres of South Sudan’s northern border with Sudan are also particularly dangerous and vulnerable to armed incursions and violence.  Parts of the border remain disputed and military forces are deployed in these areas.

The border areas with South Sudan’s other neighbouring countries, including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, the Central African Republic, and Uganda are extremely dangerous due to armed conflict, military activity and other violence. There are regular reports of attacks by armed groups on vehicles travelling on the main road connecting Juba to Uganda (Jiba-Niomule road).

We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings in South Sudan as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

Violent Crime
Violent crime, including kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, home invasions, car-jacking, and sexual assault is a significant problem throughout South Sudan, both in urban and rural areas. The economic situation has led to a significant increase in both petty and violent crime. Criminals are often armed as weapons are readily accessible.

The government has limited capacity to deter crime and maintain law and order throughout South Sudan. Banditry and lawlessness is an issue in rural areas. Humanitarian workers have been the targets of killings and violence in the past.

New Zealanders in South Sudan should exercise a very high degree of personal security awareness at all times. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. For security reasons we recommend against travelling alone, at night, or to isolated areas.

Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, also occurs and is often accompanied by violence. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

Road Travel
We strongly advise against using public transport due to safety concerns.

If travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up.

Official checkpoints are frequently set up by security forces and have been known to become hostile or violent. Individuals staffing checkpoints have been known to solicit bribes. Criminals who pose as police officers have also set up roadblocks. At checkpoints, remain in your vehicle and produce requested documents through a raised window. We recommend carrying colour photocopies of your passport and identity documents and producing these when requested, not the originals.

Landmines
There is a risk from landmines, which are reportedly present throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in South Sudan, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to South Sudan should consider.

We advise New Zealanders in South Sudan to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety, including by seeking professional security advice. You should have a contingency plan in place for departure, monitor developments closely through the media and other local information sources. As a precautionary measure, we recommend ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, fuel, cash and essential medications are always on hand and travel documents are kept up to date.

New Zealanders travelling or living in South Sudan 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 South Sudan – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in South Sudan. 

The rainy season typically runs from April to November, during which flooding often occurs. Flooding impacts transport and communications infrastructure, as well as lead to shortages of drinking water and food. Severe flooding has led to displacement, property damage and loss of life.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in South Sudan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion is recommended for both dress and behaviour.

Photography, including from a mobile phone, without a permit from the Ministry of Information in South Sudan is illegal. Taking photographs without a permit will immediately attract suspicion, and could lead to detention. Even with a permit, it is illegal to take photos of airfields, military installations or personal, government buildings and infrastructure.

New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in South Sudan against our advice are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

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

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.

We advise New Zealanders to exercise increased caution in the Slovak Republic (level 2 of 4).

Slovak Republic

Widespread military action is underway in neighbouring Ukraine. You should not attempt to cross into Ukraine from the Slovak Republic. If you have arrived in the Slovak Republic from Ukraine and are in need of consular assistance, contact the New Zealand Embassy in Austria which is accredited to Hungary at nzviennaconsular@aon.at or on +43 1 505 3021, or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand).

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. Groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. 

New Zealanders in the Slovak Republic 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.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketingoccurs and is more common in tourist areas, in larger cities and in and around transport hubs, particularly in Bratislava. Thieves often work together, sometimes involving children, and may distract victims and rob them while their attention is diverted. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Car thefts and break-ins also occur. Do not leave belongings in view in your car, make sure it is locked and be wary of others offering help. Criminals sometimes puncture tyres when they are stopped and proceed to follow the vehicle to offer ‘help’ and then rob the target while they are distracted.

Some clubs and restaurants overcharge. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food, and check your bill carefully before paying. Avoid disputes about overcharging, as they can lead to violence. 

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in the Slovak Republic. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

Civil unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur on occasion in the Slovak Republic and may disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Follow any advice from local authorities.

General travel advice
You should carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identification at all times.

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

Same-sex relationships are legal but public displays of affection may be frowned upon or attract unwanted attention.

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

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Vienna, Austria is accredited to Slovak Republic

Street Address The ICON Vienna, Tower 24, Level 15, Suite 15.02, Wiedner Gürtel 13, 1100 Vienna, Austria Telephone +43 1 505 3021 Email nzconsular-vienna@mfat.net Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/austria Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and from 1400-1600 Note Notarial Services (by appointment only): 0900-1200 Monday & Friday; 1230-1400 Wednesday

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Bratislava, Slovak Republic

Street Address Dvořákovo nábrežie 10, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovak Republic Telephone + 421 2 5941 8211 Email nzconsulate-slovakia@nzconsulate.sk

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 to the border area with Eritrea. A long-running border dispute has caused tensions between Djibouti and Eritrea. The security situation remains fragile and further conflict is a possibility (level 4 of 4).

Do not travel within 10km of the border with Somalia (Somaliland) due to the threat of kidnapping (level 4 of 4).

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Djibouti due to the threat from terrorism (level 2 of 4).

Djibouti

Terrorism
There is an ongoing threat from terrorism in Djibouti. The Somalia-based terrorist group Al-Shabaab has previously issued public threats against Djibouti. Past attacks have resulted in foreign fatalities and the possibility of future indiscriminate attacks, particularly in areas frequented by foreigners, cannot be discounted.

New Zealanders in Djibouti 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 and in areas known to be frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Civil unrest
Demonstrations occur from time to time in Djibouti, mostly linked to domestic political developments.  New Zealanders in Djibouti are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from vehicles occurs in Djibouti and is common in tourist areas. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings, be security conscious at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

New Zealanders in Djibouti are advised to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery.

New Zealanders should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas, such as Dorale and Khor Ambado beaches and to avoid all public transportation, including taxis as these are considered unsafe. Hotel, airport shuttle services, or privately hired transport are a safer alternative.

Kidnapping
There is a threat of kidnapping throughout Djibouti, especially within 10kms of Djibouti’s border with Somalia (Somaliland). Kidnappers may be motivated by financial gain or terrorism. See our page on hostage taking and kidnapping for more advice.

Piracy
Piracy remains a significant problem in the coastal areas of Djibouti. Attacks against all forms of shipping are common in and around Djibouti’s waters and the Gulf of Aden. Mariners are strongly advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

General travel advice
There is a danger from unexploded landmines in Djibouti along the border with Eritrea, Somalia and Ethiopia. Mined areas may be unmarked. New Zealanders are advised not to stray from well-used roads and paths in rural areas.

Djibouti is a mostly Muslim country and the Islamic holy month of Ramadan is one of Djibouti’s most important religious dates.  

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Djibouti to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Djibouti, but not widely accepted. See our advice for LGBTQI+ travellers here.

Photography of any official infrastructure is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Modern medical services in Djibouti are very limited, so we advise New Zealanders travelling or living in Djibouti to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Djibouti, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.

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

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

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

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 Brunei Darussalam (level 2 of 4).

Brunei Darussalam

Crime
Petty crime such as theft and burglary can occur in Brunei Darussalam. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Civil unrest
Civil unrest is extremely rare in Brunei Darussalam, but protests and demonstrations could have the potential to result in violence. We advise monitoring local media and following any instructions from local authorities.

General travel advice
New Zealanders in Brunei Darussalam are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with and observe local laws and customs, which can be very different to New Zealand. This includes in relation to alcohol and tobacco, and public expression of political views.

Brunei Darussalam has a dual legal system with both civil law and syariah (sharia) law. Both laws include provisions for corporal and capital punishments. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty, physical punishment, and lengthy imprisonment.

Further information about the Syariah Penal Code can be found on Brunei Darussalam’s Attorney General’s Chambers website. A non-exhaustive list of illegal activities under syariah law includes blasphemy, sodomy, and adultery. Syariah law applies to Muslims, non-Muslims, and foreigners.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Brunei Darussalam to avoid offending local sensitivities (including around members of the Royal Family and during religious occasions). Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

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

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

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The New Zealand High Commission Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is accredited to Brunei Darussalam

Street Address Level 21, Menara IMC, 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 50250 Telephone +60 3 2078 2533 Fax +60 3 2078 0387 Email klinfo@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/malaysia Hours Mon-Fri 0830am to 1230 hrs (reception); Mon-Thurs 0800-1630 hrs, Fri 0800-1600 hrs (telephone enquiries and pre-arranged appointments)

See our regional advice for South East Asia

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 Niger due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping, the presence of armed militants and the unpredictable security situation (level 4 of 4).

Niger

Terrorism
There is a high threat from terrorism in Niger. Terrorist groups are active across Niger, particularly, in the western, northwestern and southeastern parts of the country, Since 2013, there have been a number of retaliatory attacks against the Niger government for its participation in regional interventions in Mali and Nigeria to repel armed rebels.

The Nigerian-based terrorist group Boko Haram has a strong presence in neighbouring areas of northern Nigeria and has conducted cross-border attacks in Niger, near the Nigerian border, particularly in the Diffa region. State of Emergencies and curfews may be in place in regions of concern. Comply with any instructions issued by local authorities.  

Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and may be directed at locations known to be frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, as well as security forces and premises associated with the Government of Niger. The security situation across the Sahel continues to deteriorate, and regions previously considered to be less at risk may now be subject to terrorism and related security threats.

New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious at all times, particularly in public areas. We recommend monitoring media reports and local information sources for possible threats to your safety and security.

Kidnapping
There is a high threat of kidnapping against foreigners in Niger, including in the capital Niamey. The risk increases substantially outside Niamey, in the north of the country and in border areas. Terrorist groups active in Niger have been known to specifically target foreigners. In October 2020, a US citizen was kidnapped in the village of Massalata in southern Niger, about 10km from the border with Nigeria. In the past, foreigners have been kidnapped from their vehicles, homes and places of work.

Violent Crime
Crime levels in Niger are high, and foreigners are frequently targeted. Muggings are common in Niamey around the Gawaye Hotel, the National Museum, Kennedy Bridge and the Petit Marché, particularly at night. New Zealanders are advised not to walk alone or after dark in these areas. Other common types of crime include home invasions, carjackings assault and theft.

Armed bandits operate throughout eastern and southern Niger, the border area with Nigeria south of Zinder, and large parts of northern Niger are off-limits to tourists.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs in Niamey and  throughout Niger. You should take steps to secure your personal belongings and avoid wearing or displaying valuables such as mobile devices and jewellery or leaving them visible in vehicles.

Local Travel
New Zealanders who decide to travel outside Niamey should ensure they put in place appropriate personal security protection measures, and take official warnings seriously. We recommend travelling in convoy of at least two vehicles, with a local guide and only during daylight hours. Attacks have occurred on the Agadez-Arlit, Agedez-Tahoua, and Tillabéry-Niamey roads and within the city of Zinder. You should prepare well in advance and ensure all vehicles are fully equipped with essential supplies, including a satellite phone. 

We advise against the use of public transport in Niger. There have been incidents of armed robbery resulting in deaths on buses in Niger. Taxis are often under-maintained and dangerous and should be avoided. It is recommended that you hire a private car with a driver. Lock car doors and keep windows shut at all times.

Local authorities are sensitive about foreigners travelling out of Tahoua to the east or north of Niger. If you travel in the Agadez region without obtaining prior authorisation, you risk arrest or deportation.

Civil Unrest
Niger frequently experiences protests and demonstrations, usually near government buildings and university campuses, some of which have turned violent in the past. Mobile phone and internet access may be disrupted during civil unrest.

Since the military takeover in July 2023, there has been political instability in Niger. New Zealanders in Niger should remain vigilant and monitor the media for further information.

New Zealanders are advised to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, including curfews, and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Landmines
There is a danger from unexploded landmines in some parts of Niger, including in Niamey and in the northern region of Agadez. We recommend you remain on well-used roads and paths.

Scams
Commercial and internet fraud is a common problem in many African countries. New Zealanders in Niger should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Niger, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.

We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Niger should consider.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Niger to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Photography of public buildings and military facilities is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Medical facilities are limited and of poor quality, including in the capital Niamey. New Zealanders travelling or living in Niger should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

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

 

Travel tips

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

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 Iraq including the Kurdistan region due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation, the ongoing threat of terrorism, violent extremism and organised crime (level 4 of 4).

New Zealanders currently in Iraq despite our advice who have concerns for their safety are strongly advised to depart as soon as possible.

Iraq

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Iraq, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens requiring consular assistance is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Iraq should consider.

Security Situation
The security situation in Iraq remains highly volatile and could deteriorate further, with little or no warning. The terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant remains active in parts of the country, as do other violent extremist groups engaged in sectarian, ethnic and tribal violence and organised crime. Political instability, crime and corruption, and civil unrest are also common in Iraq.

Terrorism
There is a continuing threat of violent attacks across Iraq from terrorist groups. Suicide bomb attacks, roadside bombs, car bombs, rocket attacks, drone attacks and small arms attacks occur frequently. Thousands of people have been killed and injured in these attacks throughout Iraq.

Attacks can occur without warning at anytime, anywhere in Iraq. Terrorists, violent extremists and both pro and anti-government militias continue to conduct frequent and lethal attacks on a wide range of targets in Iraq.

Targets include Iraqi Security Forces, government offices, large public gatherings, places of worship, airports, sites frequented by foreigners and residential areas to maximise casualties. While attacks can happen at any time, there is a heightened threat during religious and public holidays. There is also a heightened threat of attacks against Western interests.

While the security situation in the Kurdistan region is slightly different to the rest of Iraq, there remains a risk of attacks by terrorist groups. Terrorist groups remain active close to the Kurdish region and the security situation in the region could deteriorate quickly.

Kidnapping/Crime
Violent crime, kidnapping and corruption are widespread throughout Iraq. Organised criminal groups, militia and tribal groups pose a significant threat. Although violent crime does occur during the day, security conditions get much worse after dark.

Kidnapping for ransom and hostage taking by extremists and militant groups for ideological reasons, political gain or ransom is a significant threat throughout Iraq. Over the past decade a large number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Iraq, including aid workers, security contractors, journalists and soldiers.  Many hostages have been killed or remain missing.

Women and girls in particular may be subject to harassment or mistreatment. Some sectors of Iraqi society and institutions have been known to overlook allegations of domestic violence against women when it is committed by close family members.

Civil Unrest
Political rallies and protests happen frequently in Baghdad and Basra and to a lesser extent Erbil. They can turn violent quickly and have led to injury and death in the past. Political rallies and protests also present viable targets for terrorists.  Police may use tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition to disperse crowds. 

New Zealanders in Iraq are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews or vehicle bans. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly, find a safe location, remain indoors and follow any local advice.

Security Forces
Iraqi Security Forces and international coalition forces are engaged in an ongoing terrorist counter insurgency across central and northern Iraq. They also have a strong presence across the rest of Iraq and conduct targeted airstrikes against militants.

Security restrictions like curfews and vehicle bans can be imposed at short notice.

Security checkpoints are common place and often ad hoc, however false checkpoints have also been used to launch attacks, kidnapping, robbery and murder.

Iraq has a large number of diverse security forces. They do not all enjoy cooperative relationships with one and other.

Turkish and Iranian security forces have also been known to conduct military incursions targeting terrorist or militia groups across Iraq’s northern borders.

Local travel
Travel across Iraq can be extremely dangerous and there continue to be fatal attacks involving roadside bombs and small arms fire.

There is also an ongoing threat from armed carjacking and robbery. Attacks happen during the day, but travelling at night is more dangerous.

Domestic and international border crossings and Iraqi airports may close with little or no notice. Avoid travel to border areas as clashes, air strikes and other violent incidents are common. Sensitive border areas, especially with Syria and Turkey, are military targets.

Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For more information, view the International Maritime Bureaus’ piracy report. 

Mosul Dam
The Government of Iraq has taken and continues to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam. A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. 

General Travel Advice
Although homosexuality is not explicitly illegal under Iraqi law, people of the same sex who engage in consensual sexual acts may be prosecuted under other provisions of law, such as public indecency, and local attitudes towards LGBTQI+ people may be hostile. Violence, harassment and discrimination against LGBTQI+ people does occur, you are advised to exercise discretion.

New Zealanders who decide to travel to Iraq are strongly encouraged to: 

• Consult a reputable security company (with experience in Iraq) for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely.
• Ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times including a robust contingency plan. The New Zealand government will not be arranging an evacuation for New Zealand citizens, should commercial options for departure cease.
• Avoid areas of military activity at all times including border areas, as these areas are dangerous, often the target of military operations and not always clearly defined.
• 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 in Iraq – exclusions may well apply.
• Be highly security conscious at all times, particularly in public places when travelling by road and close to government offices.
• New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Iraq to avoid offending local sensitivities. 
• Follow restrictions imposed by the local authorities and seek local advice on any changes to curfews. Exercise particular caution at checkpoints, a uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is acting in an official capacity.
• Monitor local developments closely through media and other information sources on possible new safety and security risks. Follow instructions from local authorities. Remain vigilant and alert to your surroundings.

New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in Iraq against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is accredited to Iraq

Street Address Level 25, Suite 2503, International Tower, Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Postal Address PO Box 62292, Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 496-3333 Fax +971-2-496-3300 Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/united-arab-emirates Hours Mon-Wed 0900-1600, Thu 0900-1530, Fri 0900-1130 Notarial Services: By appointment only, please email to arrange Note Facebook: @nzembassyuae Twitter: @nzinuae

See our regional advice for the Middle East

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

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 50 kilometres of the border regions with Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Tunisia due to a heightened threat from terrorism and kidnapping (level 4 of 4).

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Algeria, due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping (level 2 of 4).

Algeria

Terrorism
There is a high threat from terrorism in Algeria. While the threat is greatest in remote mountainous regions and rural areas, attacks can occur indiscriminately anywhere, at any time.

In recent years, there have been several attacks, primarily against Algerian government interests and security forces, but civilians have been killed or injured also. On 16 January 2021, two four-wheel drive vehicles triggered two Improvised Explosive Devices, killing 5 civilians. On 14 January 2021, a roadside bomb killed 5 Algerian citizens in Telidjane, Tebessa province, on the border with Tunisia. Al Qaeda claimed responsibility for placement of the landmine, but denied that they were targeting civilians.

Al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and similar groups have signalled an intent to target foreigners and Western interests. There have been attacks on foreign oil and gas operations in the Sahara resulting in foreigners being taken hostage and killed. Further attacks are possible.

New Zealanders in Algeria are advised to maintain a high degree of personal security awareness at all times, keep a low profile and stay alert to local developments. We recommend adhering to any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities.

Kidnapping
There is a risk of kidnapping outside of the main cities, particularly in the Kabylie region in north east Algeria, border areas in the south and east and remote regions in the Sahara. Foreigners have been taken hostage, and in some cases executed. Further kidnappings are possible.

We strongly advise against unnecessary travel to remote areas and against all travel to the border regions near Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Tunisia due to the heightened risk of kidnapping. New Zealanders in Algeria are advised to seek professional security advice before travelling to areas of particular risk and ensure appropriate personal security protection measures are in place. 

Civil Unrest/Political Tension
Protests and demonstrations are a frequent occurrence and can be triggered by political and economic developments, and events in both Algeria and the wider region. New Zealanders in Algeria are strongly advised to avoid any political gatherings, protests and demonstrations, as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly.

Local Travel
New Zealanders in Algeria should ensure they put in place appropriate personal security protection measures. Local police are able to provide further advice on the security situation and necessary security arrangements. It is advisable to notify police of travel to any remote locations, accept any security escort you may be offered and co-operate with authorities.

New Zealanders travelling in Algeria should avoid travelling outside the major cities by road, due to security concerns, particularly at night when there is a heightened risk. Authorities will likely want to know your travel plans when travelling outside major cities and may assign police to protect you. Take particular caution after dark. Where possible, avoid public transport and travel by air. Accommodation should be prearranged and at a place where a high level of security is provided.

Crime
The crime rate in Algeria is moderate. Street crime is prevalent in Algeria and foreigners may be specifically targeted due to their perceived wealth. Bag-snatchings, muggings and theft from hotel rooms and cars are common in larger cities. Only stay at international hotels that provide a high level of security.

New Zealanders are advised to exercise particular vigilance in crowded or public areas. Avoid showing signs of affluence and keep personal belongings secure at all times. Avoid walking in isolated areas or alone at night, as risks increase after dark.

There is a threat of banditry, particularly in the Tamanrasset and Illizi provinces in southern Algeria, and other areas away from major highways. Bandits have used illegal blockades to stop and rob vehicles.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Algeria to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Homosexuality is illegal in Algeria and convictions can result in prison sentences.

Algeria does not recognise dual nationality. This limits our ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand/Algerian dual nationals.

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

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

 

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Cairo, Egypt is accredited to Algeria

Street Address 8th floor, North Tower, Nile City building, Corniche El Nil, Ramlet Beaulac, Cairo, Egypt Telephone +202 2461 9186 Fax +202 2461 9178 Email enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/middle-east/egypt/new-zealand-embassy-to-arab-republic-of-egypt/ Hours Sun-Wed 0900-1500 hrs, Thurs 0900-1330 hrs Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance, please call the Embassy on +202 2461 6000. Outside of business hours you will be redirected to an after-hours duty service.

See our regional advice for Africa