North America

Security

There is an increased global risk of terrorism. No country is immune from a terrorist attack, and no person is immune from becoming a victim of an attack. Terrorists have little regard for civilian casualties and, in many cases, attacks are designed to maximise casualties.

Although New Zealand travellers are unlikely to be targeted deliberately, they are usually indistinguishable from any “Western” tourist, and frequent places where other Western tourists are found. This puts New Zealanders at the same risk as others.

Wherever you are, you should keep yourself informed about the latest alerts and stay aware of your surroundings in areas where large numbers of people congregate, such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, demonstrations and on any public transport.

The United States Homeland Security Advisory System Threat Level is currently at yellow ("elevated"), indicating a "significant risk of terrorist attacks". New York City is currently at orange ("high"), indicating there is a high risk of terrorist attacks. Further information is available from the United States Department of Homeland Security [external link].

"Express kidnappings" where foreigners are abducted and forced to withdraw money from ATMs are on the increase in Mexico.

Extreme risk

Destinations in North American where we advise against all travel

None

High risk

Destinations in North America where we advise against all tourist travel and other non-essential travel

None

Some risk

Destinations in North America where we advise caution

Mexico
United States

Where New Zealand has Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates-General in North America

Los Angeles
Mexico City
New York
Ottawa
Vancouver
Washington

Where New Zealand has Honorary Consuls in North America

Atlanta
Boston
Chicago
Honolulu
Houston
Sacramento
Salt Lake City
San Diego
San Francisco
Seattle
Toronto

Health

For current health alerts

 

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Page last updated: Wednesday, 12 August 2009, 10:11 NZST