Category: 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

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

Yellow Fever

About yellow fever
Yellow fever (YF) is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It is endemic in tropical areas of Africa (34 countries) and Latin America (13 countries). Vaccination is the most important and effective measure against YF providing effective immunity within 30 days for 99% of those vaccinated.

The disease is spread by mosquitoes that bite mostly during the day. Yellow fever can cause a serious haemorrhagic Illness that can be fatal for humans. The “yellow” in the name refers to the jaundice that affects some patients. Travellers to areas considered “at risk” can help limit the spread of the disease to vulnerable local populations by ensuring they are vaccinated where recommended.

The incubation period between being bitten by a mosquito to developing infection is 3-6 days. Symptoms including fever, headache, myalgia, conjunctival infection, facial flushing and relative bradycardia (slow heart rate) are common. In severe cases, these symptoms remit for a few hours to days then recur with high fever, headache, lumbosacral pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, impaired level of consciousness, severe hepatitis, shock and multisite haemorrhage. In many patients, there will be improvement in symptoms and gradual recovery 3-4 days after the onset of symptoms. About 15% of people infected with yellow fever develop a more severe form of the illness, and of those, up to half will die.

Survival rates are improved with supportive hospital care, however, there is no specific cure for YF. The New Zealand Health, Te Whatu Ora website provides further information on the YF virus and other relevant information about vaccination.

Recent outbreaks
Countries which have suffered recent outbreaks of YF include Trinidad in the Caribbean, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Togo, and Uganda.

In South America, from January to March 2024, 7 confirmed yellow fever cases, including 4 fatal cases, have been reported in Columbia (3 fatal cases), Guyana (2 cases), and Peru (2 cases including one death). Additionally, Brazil has reported confirmed yellow fever in monkeys which indicates it is circulating in the country.

The mosquitoes that can spread this virus are not found in New Zealand. New Zealand is free from yellow fever virus.

Yellow fever vaccine
Yellow fever is prevented by a vaccine. A single dose of YF vaccine is sufficient to grant life-long protection. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises YF vaccine for all travellers aged 9 months and older visiting countries with areas with a risk of YF.

Travellers who are planning to travel to countries in Africa or South America where YF is endemic should receive vaccination. Yellow fever vaccination is only available from authorised YF vaccinator from these designated vaccination centres.

Travellers to countries where mosquito borne illnesses can spread are advised to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in lodgings where there are mosquito screens on windows and doors. Because yellow fever virus is transmitted by mosquitoes mostly active during daytime, it is important that all travellers visiting affected areas continue to take protective measures to prevent mosquito bites throughout the day. The Mosquitoes – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora website contains more advice on avoiding mosquito bites while travelling, including information about mosquitoes.

If you feel unwell during your trip or in the first three weeks after your return, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice and tell the doctor about your travel.

 

 

Reviewed:22 May 2024, 14:20

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 normal safety and security precautions elsewhere in New Caledonia (level 1 of 4).

Exercise increased caution in metropolitan Nouméa and the RT1 road to La Tontouta Airport due to protests and demonstrations (level 2 of 4).

New Caledonia

We are providing information about the ongoing protest activity in New Caledonia here.

Crime
Violent crime towards foreigners is not common. Foreigners may experience opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, roadblocks, car theft and stone throwing. Walking alone or travelling after dark is not recommended and if travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up. Dangerous driving is not uncommon – exercise utmost caution on open roads, especially at night.

Civil unrest
There have been isolated security incidents associated with protests, demonstrations and civil unrest in New Caledonia. Protest activity has the potential to restrict travel by main roads in and out of Noumea. New Zealanders should be cautious in particular on the RP1 near St Louis, and the highway north from Noumea to La Tontouta International airport, as this route has been subject to occasional security incidents in the past, which have caused injury.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning and should monitor the media to stay informed of local developments and  follow any instructions or restrictions issued by local authorities.

General travel advice
Swimmers should be alert to any warning signs and follow the advice of local authorities when beaches have been closed due to a shark sighting or shark-related incidents. A series of shark attacks in early 2023, including one fatal, resulted in the closing of all beaches in Noumea.

Tropical Cyclone season runs from November to April. New Caledonia has a cyclone alert system. In the event of a tsunami alert, follow the advice of local authorities and your hotel or resort management.

New Zealanders travelling or living in New Caledonia must have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.  It is strongly recommended that coverage for pre-existing conditions be confirmed by your insurance providers. 

Health care facilities in New Caledonia are good for standard treatment, but in more complex cases you may need a medical evacuation to Australia or elsewhere.

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Consulate-General Noumea, New Caledonia

Street Address 27, Rue de Verdun, Nouméa, New Caledonia Postal Address New Zealand Consulate-General, B.P. 2219, 98 846 Noumea Cedex, Noumea Telephone +687 272 543 Emergency Telephone 24/7 Consular emergency call: +64 99 20 20 20 Fax +687 271 740 Email nznoumea@mfat.net Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/new-caledonia Hours Mon-Fri 0830-1130, 1330-1630

See our regional advice for the Pacific

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

Zika Virus

What is Zika?
Zika virus is a flavivirus and is closely related to Japanese encephalitis, West Nile, Dengue, and yellow fever viruses. Since its discovery in Uganda in 1948 Zika has continued to expand its geographic range, from Africa and Asia to Pacific Islands, then, further afield to South and Central America and Caribbean.

Transmission
Zika, like dengue and chikungunya viruses are transmitted by mosquitos mostly active during the daytime. Rare instances of sexual transmission have been reported. Pregnant women who become infected with Zika virus can transmit the disease to their unborn babies, with potentially serious consequences.

The mosquito species (Aedes sp) that can spread Zika virus are not normally found in New Zealand however they are found in many other countries around the world. A total of 89 countries  had documented evidence of locally transmitted mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus, distributed across all regions.

Symptoms can include: 

• low-grade fever
• arthralgia (joint aches), notably of small joints of hands and feet, with possible swollen joints
• myalgia (muscle aches)
•  headache, retro-ocular headaches (behind the eyes)
• conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• cutaneous maculopapular rash 

Zika virus infection usually causes a mild disease (except for pregnant women).

However, as Zika infection may cause a rash that could be confused with diseases such as measles or dengue, these serious diseases do need to be ruled out.

Diagnosis of Zika will first and foremost be based on symptoms, travel history and exclusion of other diseases including measles, rubella, and dengue.

The incubation period is typically 3–12 days. There is no specific therapy for Zika virus infection and acute symptoms typically resolve within 4–7 days.

Use paracetamol for pain and fever if needed. Until dengue can be ruled out do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, given the risk of bleeding.

Serious complications from Zika virus infection are uncommon.

However, based on research to date, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and other severe foetal brain abnormalities as well as Guillain-Barré syndrome. It is especially important that pregnant women take all steps to minimise risk of mosquito bites in countries with zika virus.

Zika outbreak in Thailand
The Zika virus disease has increased to levels not seen since before the 2016 epidemic in Thailand, with more than 750 people infected and at least 13 babies born with birth defects in 2023.  In comparison, 190 cases were reported in 2022 and 63 in 2021.

The World Health Organization has also reported a significant increase globally in dengue fever, which is also transmitted primarily by Aedes sp. mosquitos.

Prevention advice for travellers
There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment available to prevent Zika virus infection or disease. The majority of Zika viruses cases are acquired via mosquito bites, although sexual transmission of Zika virus infection can occur. The overall risk of sexual transmission of Zika virus is considered to be low. Pregnant women who become infected with Zika virus can transmit the disease to their unborn babies, with potentially serious consequences. Prevention of Zika relies primarily on avoidance of mosquito bites.

If travelling to Thailand or zika-affected areas, women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should consult with their health care provider.  Individuals should take all precautions to avoid mosquito bites, including the following:  

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
•  Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or IR3535. Always use as directed.
•  Insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, and IR3535 are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women and children older than 2 months when used according to the product label. Oil of lemon eucalyptus products should not be used on children under 3 years of age.
•  If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and then the repellent.
•  Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as closed-toe shoes or boots, pants, socks, and tents).
•  Use bed nets, as necessary.
•  Stay and sleep in screened-in or air-conditioned rooms.
•  Be particularly vigilant for the 2 hours after sunrise and the 2 hours before sunset. 

Women who have travelled to an affected country without their partner should use appropriate contraception for eight weeks to avoid pregnancy. However, if the partner has also travelled to an affected country, then see advice on sexual transmission of Zika virus.

Note: Avoiding mosquito bites will help prevent infection with a number of viruses that can cause serious illness. In addition to Zika virus disease, mosquitos are the prime vector for infection with, and transmission of chikungunya, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, West Nile virus, and yellow fever.

More information about Zika virus can be found on the Te Whatu Ora or World Health Organisation websites.

Reviewed:14 May 2024, 11:40

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.

Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Serbia (level 1of 4).

Serbia

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations occur from time to time in Serbia, particularly in major towns and cities like Belgrade, and occasional unrest along the border with Kosovo remains possible. These can cause major traffic delays and disruptions to public transport.

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. New Zealanders are also advised to maintain a high degree of personal security awareness and monitor local developments closely by following media sources, and any instructions from local authorities.

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, and some individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe.

New Zealanders in Serbia 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 or advice issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places. 

Landmines
Unexploded land mines and munitions left over from the 1999 conflict remain along the border with Kosovo and in southern Serbia. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all off-road travel in these areas and stay on clearly marked paths.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing occurs in Serbia and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard 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.

General Travel Advice
The security situation along the Kosovo-Serbia border is unpredictable. Foreign nationals have been denied entry into Serbia if they have Republic of Kosovo stamps in their passports. Enhanced border controls are in place, and border crossings may be closed at short notice.

New Zealanders are advised to carry photo identification, or a photocopy of their passport, with them at all times and produce this if asked by authorities.

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

We recommend you use ATMs that are located within bank branches, or within malls, during daylight hours. In addition, credit card fraud is common in Serbia. We recommend New Zealanders take extra care when using credit cards and ATMs.

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

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

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Rome, Italy is accredited to Serbia

Street Address Via Clitunno, 44, 00198 Rome, Italy Telephone +39 06 853 7501 Fax +39 06 440 2984 Email rome@nzembassy.it Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/italy/new-zealand-embassy/#bookmark0 Hours Mon- Fri 0900 -1230 and 1330-1630 Note We encourage you to make an appointment to ensure prompt service.

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 elsewhere in Myanmar due to ongoing civil unrest and armed conflict.

Avoid non-essential travel to Yangon due to the volatile security and political situation.

Street Address No. 43 (C), Inya Myaing Road, Shwe Taung Kyar (2) Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar Telephone +95 1 230 6048 Alternate Telephone +95 9 403 323 982 Emergency Telephone +64 99 20 20 20 Email Yangon.Office@mfat.govt.nz Web Site www.mfat.govt.nz/myanmar Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1200, 1300-1630 hrs Consular – legal and Notarial service: by appointment, Monday to Friday