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Reviewed: 10 September 2012, 15:10 NZDT
Still current at:
19 May 2013
There is extreme risk to your security in South Ossetia, Abkhazia and the Pankisi Gorge north of Akhmeta and we advise against all travel to these regions. Terrorist and criminal activity and unexploded mines and ordnance makes travel to these areas extremely dangerous. Although military operations between Georgian and Russian forces ceased in 2008, tensions remain and it is not advisable to cross the Georgia/Russia border by land.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Georgia due to the potential for civil unrest and an underlying threat from terrorism and we advise caution.
Civil unrest
Protests and demonstrations are common in Georgia, particularly in Tbilisi. We recommend avoiding all demonstrations, protests and political rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.
Terrorism
There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Georgia. On 13 February 2012, an explosive device was found in the car of an Israeli Embassy employee in Tbilisi. New Zealanders in Georgia are advised to monitor the media for information on potential threats to safety and security and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
Crime
Crime targeting foreigners is not uncommon in Georgia. New Zealanders in Georgia are advised to maintain a high degree of personal security awareness at all times and avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as cameras and jewellery. We advise against travel along the M27 road (also known as the M1) at night due to criminal activity.
General travel advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Georgia, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Georgia should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Georgia are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Central Asia
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Page last updated: Tuesday, 02 April 2013, 16:04 NZDT
