Haiti

Post Closure
The New Zealand High Commission in Bridgetown (accredited to Haiti) has formally closed. 

New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or email cons@mfat.govt.nz [2].

Violent Crime
The security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and crime levels are high throughout the country. Murder, armed robbery, kidnapping and carjacking is prevalent and there is an increased risk at night and in isolated areas. Local law enforcement’s response to crime is often limited. 

New Zealanders are advised to exercise a high degree of vigilance at all times, particularly in Port-au-Prince and near Haiti’s border with the Dominican Republic.  We recommend avoiding travel after dark and the use of public transport, including shared taxis (tap-taps) and buses. We also recommend making adequate security arrangements to avoid travelling alone in Haiti. The presence of one or more travelling companions with reliable local knowledge may help mitigate the risks.

Criminals have been known to follow travellers from the airport in Port-au-Prince to carry out robberies or carjackings. We recommend travelling with doors locked and windows up at all times and arranging transport from the airport before arrival. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

There is a threat of kidnapping in Haiti, especially in Port-au-Prince. Most kidnappings are financially motivated and victims are often targeted due to their perceived wealth. It is therefore advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as jewellery and mobile devices.

New Zealanders are advised to take particular care when withdrawing money from banks, as criminals have been known to target customers as they leave banks.

Civil Unrest
The political situation in Haiti is unpredictable. Demonstrations and roadblocks are commonplace in Port-au-Prince and other cities, which can cause water, food and fuel shortages. We recommend you avoid all demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent. You should monitor local media and government announcements for information. Adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities, including curfews and other security regulations issued in response to protest activity.

General Travel Advice
Hurricane season is June to November, during which landslides, flooding and disruption to essential services is likely to be severe.

Foreigners taking photos have sometimes been regarded with suspicion and assaulted, particularly in remote areas. Avoid taking photos of individuals without permission.

As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Haiti, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning [3] that travellers to Haiti should consider.

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

New Zealanders in Haiti are encouraged to register their details [4] with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• Current health alerts [5]