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Reviewed: 29 September 2011, 14:30 NZDT
Still current at:
04 February 2012
There is high risk to your security in areas close to the Iraq border in southeast Turkey due to military operations and terrorist activity. We advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to these areas. There are restrictions on movement and checkpoints in some parts of the southeast. New Zealanders are advised to follow the directions of the Turkish authorities at all times.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Turkey due to the threat from terrorism and potential for civil unrest and we advise caution. There have been a number of terrorist attacks in Turkey. Further attacks could well occur including in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, other major centres, tourist areas and along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
Terrorism
On 20 September 2011, a bomb exploded in central Ankara killing three people and injuring more than 30. In July 2011, the Turkish authorities arrested 14 suspected Al Qaeda members accused of planning to bomb American interests in Turkey. In May 2011, an explosion at a bus stop in the Etiler district of Istanbul injured eight people.
In October 2010, a bomb exploded near a police post in Taksim Square in Istanbul injuring 32 people. In June 2010, an explosion on a bus carrying military personnel in Istanbul killed four people and injured nine others. An attack on a police bus in Istanbul the same month injured 15 people. In January 2010, the US Consulate in Adana was the target of a shooting attack.
New Zealanders in Turkey should exercise a high degree of personal security awareness especially in commercial and public areas, including landmark places known to be frequented by foreigners, public transport facilities, government buildings, hotels, bars, restaurants, clubs, places or worship, embassies and shopping areas. You should also be security conscious around buildings and sites associated with the Turkish military or security forces.
Civil unrest
New Zealanders in Turkey are advised to avoid all political gatherings, protests and demonstrations as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent. May Day rallies on 1 May in Istanbul’s Taksim Square have turned violent in the past. New Zealanders throughout Turkey are advised to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Turkey should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Turkey are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Europe
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Britain - United States - Canada - Australia
Abolition of border controls in Europe
Contact details are
Street Address Kizkulesi Sokak No. 11, Gaziosmanpasa, Ankara, Turkey
Telephone +90 312 446 3333 Facsimile +90 312 446 3317
Email nzembassyankara@ttmail.com
Website New Zealand Embassy Turkey [external link]
Office Hours Mon - Fri 0830 - 1700
Street Address Inonu Caddesi No No: 48/3 Taksim, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone +90 212 244 0272 Facsimile +90 212 251 4004
Email nzhonconist@hatem-law.com.tr
Print this page Thursday, 29 September 2011, 14:30 NZDT
