COVID-19

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly, particularly in response to new variants of concern. Should you decide to travel overseas at this time, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses. Talk to your insurer about how sudden changes to the international travel environment might affect your insurance.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand may be required to enter government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The length of your stay in MIQ may depend on where you are travelling from. Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
Most travellers must have a negative pre-departure test result and approved documentation to enter New Zealand. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

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Maldives

Civil unrest
Demonstrations and protests have occurred on Malé Island. Further demonstrations are possible in the capital Malé. In the past, some demonstrations have resulted in violence between police, military and demonstrators.

New Zealanders travelling to Malé Island are advised to exercise increased caution, particularly at night, and avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. We recommend monitoring local media to stay informed of developments and adhering to any restrictions or instructions issued by the local authorities.

Terrorism
There is an underlying threat of terrorism in Maldives. Public places, including tourist locations, could be targeted.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing occurs in Maldives. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to secure their personal belongings. Gang and drug-related violence has also occurred in the past. Exercise caution and remain vigilant.

General travel advice
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Maldives to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

The importation of alcohol into Maldives is illegal, as is the consumption of alcohol (unless at a resort island).

New Zealanders travelling or living in Maldives should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Maldives are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand High Commission Colombo, Sri Lanka is accredited to Maldives

Street Address Unit 2401−2402, Level 24 One Galle Face Tower 1A Centre Road, Galle Face 00200 Colombo Sri Lanka Postal Address Unit 2401−2402, Level 24 One Galle Face Tower 1A Centre Road, Galle Face 00200 Colombo Sri Lanka Telephone +94 11 217 4717 Email NZHCColombo@gmail.com Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/sri-lanka/

See our regional advice for South Asia