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Reviewed: 4 July 2008, 16:00 NZDT
Still current at:
07 September 2008
There is extreme risk to your security in Zimbabwe and we advise against all travel at the present time. The high level of political tension and increasing levels of election-related violence across the country have created an unstable security situation that could deteriorate further with little warning.
We recommend New Zealanders in Zimbabwe ensure their travel documents are kept up to date and are readily available in case it becomes necessary to leave the country at short notice. New Zealanders should have their own contingency plan in place for departure. You should consider departing if you have concerns for your safety. If the security situation deteriorates quickly, departure options may be severely limited. As there is no resident New Zealand diplomatic or consular representation in Zimbabwe, the ability of the government to assist any New Zealand citizens is very limited.
The Presidential run off election took place on 27 June 2008. There continues to be a high level of political tension surrounding the election and election-related violence is ongoing. New Zealanders should avoid all demonstrations, street rallies and large public gatherings as police and security forces will use force to suppress demonstrations and perceived opposition to the Government. It is possible that New Zealanders may get caught up in violence directed at others.
We strongly advise against all visits to the high density, low income, urban suburbs as they are patrolled by riot police and other militias who use violence to suppress unrest. We also advise against travel to rural Mashonaland and farming areas and any area where war veterans are active. You should heed any local advice about areas to avoid and keep yourself up to date with local developments.
Roadblocks have been set up in rural areas and high-density urban suburbs, at times manned by armed security forces, war veterans and militia. There is a risk of arbitrary detention or arrest in Zimbabwe, including at these roadblocks.
The deteriorating economic situation has affected many basic services. There are frequent power cuts and shortages of food, water and fuel affecting the entire country. The Zimbabwean mobile phone network is near collapse and land lines are unreliable. There are shortages of essential medicines in hospitals and pharmacies.
As the economy in Zimbabwe is deteriorating, the level of crime, including violent crime, is increasing. Robberies and car-jackings are common along the Harare Airport Road and there are reports that foreign residents are being targeted by armed robbers. Thieves are targeting tourists, particularly in the Victoria Falls area and in national parks. New Zealanders in Zimbabwe are advised to be security conscious at all times and maintain a low profile. Travel to isolated areas should be avoided and particular care should be taken when leaving banks or using Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs).
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Zimbabwe should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your insurance for Zimbabwe is still valid given the current situation. Exclusions may well apply.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Zimbabwe are urged to record/update their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Contact details are
Street Address Block C (2nd floor), Hatfield Gardens, 1110 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, Pretoria 0083, South Africa
Postal Address Private Bag X17, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa Telephone +27 12 342 8656/7/8/9 Facsimile +27 12 342 8640
Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za
Website New Zealand High Commission Pretoria [external link]
Office Hours Mon - Thurs 0800 - 1630hrs, Fri 0800 - 1330hrs
