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 Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion and ongoing military aggression (level 4 of 4). There is a real risk to life.

New Zealanders currently in Ukraine are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so. The New Zealand Government is severely limited in its ability to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens in Ukraine.

Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing, with heavy fighting on the frontlines in northern, eastern and southern Ukraine and missile and drone strikes possible across the country. Civilians are being impacted and foreigners have been killed. There is a real risk to life. There are large amounts of unexploded ordnance and landmines present in conflict and post-conflict areas. There is also concern about military activity and shelling around Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. We advise New Zealanders in Ukraine to seek shelter in a secure place until you judge it is safe to depart. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times and always prioritise your immediate safety. Monitor advice from reputable local and international media as well as the SafeTravel website. Where you judge it is safe to do so, you should depart Ukraine.

Ukraine’s airspace is closed. Land border crossings are open but expect some congestion. As a result of the invasion, roads may be crowded, exposed to military action or damaged. Electricity blackouts are possible across the country due to damaged energy infrastructure. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel.  Bring hard copies of important documentation, as well as any other essentials you may need. Check the entry requirements of your intended destination regularly before arrival as many neighbouring countries are adjusting them. Book accommodation in the country you are travelling to in advance if you can. Under martial law, Ukrainian “military-aged” males (aged 18-60 years), including dual nationals, are being stopped from leaving Ukraine. There are limited exemptions, including for people who have completed certain types of military service already or are sole parents of young children or disabled persons. Anyone claiming an exemption will need to provide extensive documentation.

A nationwide state of emergency is in force and martial law has been imposed. Other local restrictions could be implemented with limited warning. Follow the instructions of the Ukrainian authorities, including responding to air raid sirens, and check the measures in place in your location, as they may vary across the regions.

If you’re in Ukraine, please register with SafeTravel if you have not already done so and keep your details up to date so we know of your situation and can keep you updated with the latest information. If you are in Ukraine in need of assistance, you should email nzwsw@nzembassy.pl or phone the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand). Please note that New Zealand’s ability to provide consular assistance in Ukraine is extremely limited in these circumstances. You should not rely on the New Zealand Government to evacuate you from Ukraine.

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. The Ukrainian authorities have disrupted a number of planned attacks in the past, including in Kyiv. Small scale targeted attacks (assassinations and bombings) including car bombs occur in Ukraine every year, some involving casualties. Further attacks could happen anywhere at any time, including in areas frequented by foreigners. New Zealanders in Ukraine are advised to exercise vigilance in public places, and stay alert.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing is increasing, particularly in Kyiv at night. Incidents are increasingly occurring on public transport. Muggings, street scams and drinks spiking have also been reported. We recommend taking extra care to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended and being cautious about accepting drinks from strangers and recent acquaintances.

We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to ensure their safety and secure their personal belongings. 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. Avoid travelling alone and at night.

Credit card fraud, including skimming, and internet fraud is common in Ukraine. We recommend New Zealanders take extra care when using credit cards and ATMs and carefully check credit card statements for fraudulent charges. 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.

Don’t hail a taxi on the street – order one from your hotel or a taxi company. Only use official taxis, and agree the fare before you get in. At airports, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations and protests occur occasionally in Ukraine, particularly in Kyiv, and may disrupt local public services and transport. New Zealanders in Ukraine 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.

General Travel Advice
Carry your passport at all times, as local authorities may stop foreigners and ask them to present their passport and visas. Keep a photocopy in a safe place.

Under Ukrainian law it is illegal to enter internationally recognised Ukrainian territory through a border point that is not currently controlled by Ukrainian authorities.

We advise against entering into new surrogacy agreements, as consular assistance in Ukraine is extremely limited in these circumstances.

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

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

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

 

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Warsaw, Poland is accredited to Ukraine

Telephone +48 22 521 0500 Emergency Telephone 24/7 Consular emergency line: 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) Email nzwsw@nzembassy.pl Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/poland

See our regional advice for Europe

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

Travelling overseas with moko, permanent markings or tattoos

Travelling with moko (facial tattoo)
Tā Moko (Māori tattoo), in particular mataora and moko kauae are an important expression of culture, identity and whakapapa for Māori. Travellers with moko should be cognisant of the fact that permanent markings of this nature could be viewed differently overseas. Views and reactions may include curiosity, either positive or negative.

Bars and restaurants in some countries may have a dress code that bars visible tattoos (moko/mataora). Travellers are advised to check dress codes regarding entry.

Stigma attached to tattoos
In some countries tattoos, particularly facial tattoos, are associated with crime and carry some stigma.

As tattoos in some countries are uncommon and often associated with organised crime, those with moko may be denied entry to some places such as restaurants, gyms or swimming venues, or be asked to cover up their cultural markings. Travellers are advised to check entry rules with a venue in advance of visiting and consult guides that some national tourism authorities, such as Japan (below), have made available.

Useful websites
Japan National Tourism Organization – 7 tattoo-friendly onsen (hot springs) in Japan

Japan National Tourism Organization – An Insider’s Guide to Kagaya Ryokan (Inn)

Posted:24 Jun 2024, 10:48

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

Travelling overseas with taonga (culturally or religiously significant items) – Tō haerenga me ngā taonga

This advice relates to personal items only.

Perception as weapons
Some taonga can be viewed as weapons and be confiscated by customs or security officials with no ways for items to be recovered. Check the customs restrictions for each country you are travelling to or through. Pack these taonga in checked baggage rather than in carry-on baggage, or wearing them. 

Useful website
Travelling with culturally or religiously significant items (aviation.govt.nz)

Endangered species
Taonga made with bone, feathers, shells and so on may be subject to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and require a permit to be taken across a border. Before travelling, check the permitting requirements of the country you’re travelling to. If you are travelling to multiple countries, you may need a permit for each country. 

The CITES website lists all CITES national authorities) who can also help to make sure you have the correct documentation for when you arrive.

The New Zealand government has very limited ability to help in having items returned once they have been seized in another country, so make sure to travel with the correct permits.

Useful website
Travelling with taonga: CITES (doc.govt.nz)

Biosecurity prohibitions
Taonga made with wood, bone, shells, feathers and fibres may be subject to biosecurity prohibitions. Check the biosecurity rules for each country you are travelling to or through.

Protected New Zealand objects
If your taonga, artwork or craft is over 50 years old you may need a Certificate of Permission from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage to take it out of Aotearoa New Zealand. If your taonga, artwork or craft looks over 50 years old, request a letter from the Ministry confirming exemption of the item and carry it with you to show border officials.

Contact the Ministry for Culture and Heritage Protected Objects team to check if you will need to apply for a certificate to travel with your personal taonga.

Useful website
travelling-with-taonga-2019.pdf (doc.govt.nz)

Posted:24 Jun 2024, 10:40

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 Central African Republic (CAR) due to the unstable security situation, activities of armed rebel groups and the high level of violent crime (level 4 of 4).

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

New Zealanders who remain in CAR against our advice should avoid any unnecessary travel, keep a low profile, maintain a high degree of personal security awareness and take all possible security precautions to protect their safety. We recommend ensuring you have adequate stocks of essential supplies on hand, and monitor media reports and local information sources closely to keep up to date on the security situation. 

Central African Republic

Civil Unrest/Political Tension
There is sustained violence in CAR and the security situation is unstable and dangerous. Rebel activity, inter-communal tensions and lawlessness is prevalent throughout the country and despite the presence of international peacekeeping forces the potential for sectarian violence remains high. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews.

The security situation in the capital, Bangui, remains fragile and there continue to be reports of violence, killing and looting.

Violent Crime
In the absence of effective law and order, levels of violent crime in CAR, including armed robbery, banditry and sexual assault, are very high. Foreigners, including aid workers and peacekeepers, have been the targets of violence and kidnapping in the past. We strongly advise against travelling after dark or walking alone in isolated areas.

Travel outside Bangui is dangerous. Armed patrols operate in many areas and there have been attacks on travellers, vehicles and convoys, resulting in deaths. Illegal road blocks are used in some areas to extort money from travellers through bogus fines or intimidation. Road block operators may resort to violence in attempts to obtain money or possessions.

The security situation in border areas, especially with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), is particularly dangerous. Land borders and crossings may not be open to tourists and may close at short notice.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in CAR, 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 the CAR should consider.

New Zealanders travelling or living in CAR 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 CAR as exclusions are likely to apply.

Photography of government offices, airports, military establishments or officials, official residences is prohibited. Always ask for permission before photographing a location or individuals.

Due to the ongoing situation in CAR, access to medical treatment is limited and there are shortages of even the most basic medications and medical supplies. 

New Zealanders who decide to travel or live in CAR 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.

Do not travel within 25 kilometres of the border areas with Sudan, Ethiopia and Djibouti, including the town of Teseney and areas north and west of Barentu, Ak’ordat and Nakh’fa due to ongoing tensions in Eritrea’s relations with these countries, the presence of landmines and the risk of violence, including armed banditry (level 4 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel elsewhere in Eritrea due to the unpredictable security situation which has the potential to deteriorate with little warning should tensions between Eritrea and neighbouring countries escalate (level 3 of 4).

Eritrea

Violent Crime
Street crime is rare but is increasingly happening in cities and towns, including Asmara, particularly pickpocketing against foreigners. Armed banditry is common near the border with Sudan, and Djibouti along the coast north of Massawa, and on some rural roads.

New Zealanders in Eritrea are advised to be security conscious at all times and should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly 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.

Landmines
There are extensive minefields in Eritrea, particularly in border areas which continue to cause occasional injury or death. Some may not be marked and travelling or walking in rural or remote areas can be dangerous. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

Piracy
Piracy has been reported in the coastal waters off Eritrea in the Gulf of Aden, and remains a significant threat. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

Civil Unrest
In 2020, there were several explosions reported in Asmara following armed conflict in the Tigray region. While the situation has calmed since, there continue to be skirmishes along the Ethiopian border. Additional security measures could be introduced at short notice.

On 31 October 2017, many protesters took to the streets in Asmara and there were reports of gunfire from local security forces to disperse the crowd. Whilst such incidents are rare, New Zealanders in Eritrea 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. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

Terrorism
Terrorist attacks in Eritrea can’t be ruled out, and could occur at any time. Be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places.

General Travel Advice
All foreign nationals are required to apply in advance for travel permits from the Government to leave the capital Asmara. Processing can take up to 24 hours. New Zealanders in Eritrea should be aware of and adhere to all laws, regulations and any restrictions in place on travel to certain areas of Eritrea, as they are strictly enforced by Eritrean authorities.

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

Telephone and internet networks are unreliable and may only work for limited amount of hours in a day, even in larger towns and cities.

Photography of government buildings and military establishments or officials, is prohibited – if in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Homosexual activity is illegal and could result in arrest and imprisonment.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Eritrea, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who require consular assistance is severely limited. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Eritrea should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Medical facilities may be limited outside Asmara.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Eritrea 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

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

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

Saudi Arabia: Hajj Pilgrimage 2024

The Hajj is one of the world’s largest annual mass gatherings, is expected to occur between 14 June – 19 June 2024. Due to the vast numbers of attendees, who are generally in very close proximity, this event has previously been associated with unique public health risks.

Approximately two million Muslims from more than 183 countries make Hajj each year to Saudi Arabia. Most international pilgrims fly into Jeddah or Medina and take a bus to Mecca. Pilgrims travel by foot or bus approximately five miles (8 km) to the tent city of Mina, the largest temporary city in the world, where most stay in air-conditioned tents.

The Saudi government requires pilgrims to complete all Hajj Health Requirements page at least 10 days before the start of the Hajj season. The Hajj vaccination requirements along with other travel precautions to reduce disease risk are available on the Ministry of Heath of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia website, Hajj Health Requirements page.

Safety and security

As there is an ongoing threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia, New Zealanders considering making the pilgrimage are advised to read our travel advisory for Saudi Arabia. If you decide to travel, we recommend registering your details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and ensuring you have comprehensive insurance coverage before you go.

New Zealanders performing the Hajj are advised to follow any instructions issued by the local authorities, avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras and jewellery and obey all bans on filming or photography, or risk having equipment confiscated and/or being arrested.

Health

Travel to new areas may cause an upset stomach from contaminated food or water. Diarrheal disease is common during Hajj, caused by bacteria or viruses. Pilgrims should always wash hands with soap and water thoroughly after using a toilet and before handling food and eating.

Due to the large number of people from many different countries attending, infectious diseases may easily spread. In addition to vaccinations required and/or recommended by the Hajj Health Requirements page, ensure you are up to date with all routine vaccinations before you go, especially measles (MMR vaccine). A travel doctor may recommend additional vaccinations, such as hepatitis A vaccine to help reduce your risk of illness.

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

Between 10 to 17 April 2024, the Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reported three cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus, including one death, to the World Health Organization (WHO). All cases were  from Riyadh, aged between 50 and 60 years, with underlying health conditions.

Hajj travellers are advised to avoid contact with live animals (especially camels) and avoid consuming raw or uncooked animal products (including milk and meat). MERS was identified first in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The virus has been isolated in camels in this region and is spread to humans by contact with camels.

General information

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is the Saudi government department with overall responsibility for managing the annual pilgrimage. You’ll need to book your travel through a Saudi-Government approved  travel agent. Ensure you use a reputable agent who will provide accommodation, transport, and an entry visa. Using a non-approved Hajj operator may be punishable under Saudi law and could include deportation, jail, financial penalty, and a ban on future travel to Saudi Arabia. If in doubt, contact the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah . For further information, we recommend contacting the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Saudi Arabia. 

After returning to New Zealand from the Hajj

After returning from the Hajj, travellers are advised to self-monitor for symptoms for 21 days. If symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, sore throat, diarrhoea, weakness, vomiting, stomach pain or unexplained bleeding or bruising are experienced, phone ahead to your local health provider or call Healthline on 0800 611 for advice. 

Consular assistance in Saudi Arabia is provided by the New Zealand Embassy, Riyadh:

New Zealand Embassy, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Street Address Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Postal Address PO Box 94 397, Riyadh 11693, Saudi Arabia
Telephone +966 11 488 7988 
Email nzembassyksa@gmail.com
Website www.mfat.govt.nz/saudi-arabia 
Office Hours Sun – Thurs 0800-1200, 1230-1500hrs

Associated Advisories:

Reviewed:29 May 2024, 09:45