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Reviewed: 17 June 2009, 15:20 NZDT
Still current at:
21 March 2010
There is some risk to your security in Timor-Leste due to the fragile security situation and we advise caution.
Timor-Leste has had a turbulent history leading up to its independence from Indonesia in 2002. Since independence there have been a number of incidents of civil unrest but the situation is currently calm. A major breakdown of order in 2006 saw the introduction of the Australian-New Zealand International Stabilisation Force (ISF) and the United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), which assist in maintaining stability in the country.
Since the armed attacks on the President and Prime Minister in 2008, the situation in Timor-Leste has improved. However, underlying political tensions remain. The security situation remains fragile and could deteriorate with little warning. New Zealanders are advised to regularly monitor the media and local information sources to keep up to date on the security situation.
New Zealanders are advised to avoid all rallies, protests and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Caution should also be exercised around the one remaining IDP (internally displaced persons) camp at Metinaro.
Crime continues to be an issue in Timor-Leste, including gang-related violence, robbery (in some cases armed), assault and attacks on vehicles. Foreigners may be targeted for robbery by criminals due to their perceived wealth. Harassment and violence against women (including expatriates) has been reported.
New Zealanders in Timor-Leste should avoid all unnecessary travel after dark, including in Dili, and should exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times. We advise against travelling alone and to isolated areas for security reasons. Poor road quality and a rapidly increasing number of cars on the roads (especially in Dili) makes driving in Timor-Leste hazardous and accidents are frequent.
There is a danger from unexploded ordnance from World War II and the Indonesian occupation in rural areas, and we advise travellers not to stray off well used roads and paths.
Piracy is a problem in South East Asian waters. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report: www.icc-ccs.org
Medical services in Timor-Leste are very limited and New Zealanders travelling or resident in Timor-Leste should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling to or resident in Timor-Leste are encouraged to record/update their details online with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Southeast Asia
For other countries' travel advice
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Contact details are
Street Address Rua Geremais, Motael, Dili, Timor-Leste
Telephone +670 331 0087 Facsimile +670 332 4982
Email dili@mfat.govt.nz
Office Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1230; 1330 - 1700
