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Reviewed: 28 July 2010, 16:12 NZDT
Still current at:
03 September 2010
There is some risk to your security in Timor-Leste due to the fragile security situation and we advise caution.
Timor-Leste had a turbulent history leading up to its independence from Indonesia in 2002. Since independence there have been outbreaks 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 continue to assist in maintaining stability in the country.
There were unsuccessful assassination attempts on the President and Prime Minister in February 2008, but since then security in Timor-Leste has improved. In response, the ISF has been reduced in size and the United Nations is progressively transferring policing responsibility from the UN to the national police in a phased district by district process.
The current security situation is generally calm but could deteriorate with little warning. New Zealanders in Timor-Leste are advised to regularly monitor the media and local information sources to keep up to date on developments. New Zealanders are also advised to avoid all rallies, protests and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent.
Crime, including gang-related violence, robbery (in some cases armed), assault and attacks on vehicles, continues to be an issue in Timor-Leste. Foreigners may be targeted for robbery because of their perceived wealth. Harassment of 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 hazardous and accidents are frequent.
There is some danger in rural areas from unexploded ordnance from World War Two and the Indonesian occupation 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.
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 or resident in Timor-Leste are encouraged to register their details 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
