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Reviewed: 3 November 2009, 22:40 NZDT
Still current at:
10 February 2010
There is some risk to your security in Fiji and we advise caution.
On 3 November New Zealand's Acting Head of Mission in Fiji was advised by the Fiji interim Government that he was being expelled from the country. The Australian High Commissioner was also advised that he was being expelled. The New Zealand High Commission in Suva will be monitoring the security situation for New Zealanders in Fiji closely. This new expulsion has further depleted staff numbers at the High Commission and may affect the level of consular assistance the High Commission can provide to New Zealanders. New Zealanders in Fiji are advised to exercise particular caution and maintain a low profile.
On 10 April the President of Fiji abrogated the constitution following a Fiji court decision that the Fiji interim government led by the Commander of the Fiji military since the December 2006 military coup is illegal. On 11 April Public Emergency Regulations, which give the police and military extensive powers, were put in place and a new interim government was appointed.
Currently, Fiji is calm but a rapid deterioration to the situation, including the potential for civil disorder and violence, cannot be ruled out. New Zealand citizens in Fiji should be security conscious at all times, avoiding any demonstrations, large gatherings and areas of military activity, especially in and around the capital Suva.
Increased police checkpoints and other security measures have been implemented. Public gatherings of three or more persons may be subject to police scrutiny. Media are now subject to censorship and a police presence is being maintained in major media outlets. The military maintains effective control of a number of government departments and statutory authorities, including the police. There continue to be examples of a deteriorating respect for the rule of law in Fiji.
On 23 December 2008, the Fiji Interim Government expelled New Zealand’s Acting High Commissioner from the country.
In June 2007, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Fiji was also expelled by the military-led government. Subsequently, an Acting High Commissioner was appointed to represent New Zealand interests in Fiji. In February and May 2008, two expatriate newspaper publishers were also expelled from the country. In May 2008, credible threats were made against the Australian High Commissioner and staff of the Australian High Commission. A number of New Zealand citizens have been detained or deported by the military-led government in Fiji.
There are indications that crime levels are increasing in Fiji. Robbery, theft and incidents of assault have been reported by locals and tourists alike, with most occurring at night and in urban areas. New Zealanders are advised to take particular care with cash and credit cards, especially when using Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs).
We recommend New Zealanders in Fiji, or planning to visit, monitor New Zealand media and this website to keep themselves informed of the security situation. New Zealanders in Fiji should also ensure their travel documents are kept up to date and are easily accessible.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Fiji should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders visiting or living in Fiji are strongly encouraged to register/update their details online.
See our regional advice for the Pacific
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are
Street Address Reserve Bank of Fiji Building, Pratt
Street, Suva, Fiji Postal Address PO Box 1378, Suva, Fiji
Telephone +
679 331 1422 Facsimile +679 330 0842
Email nzhc@connect.com.fj
Office Hours Mon - Fri 0830-1630
hrs
