Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas
France
Terrorism
On 25 March 2024 France raised its terror alert warning to the highest level. Expect to see high levels of security nationwide. A heightened threat of terrorism remains throughout France, with a number of serious and particularly violent attacks in the past:
On 7 October 2023, rockets were fired from Gaza across southern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. There is currently a large-scale ongoing conflict occurring in areas of southern Israel close to the border with Gaza and within Gaza. Israel has expanded its ground operations in Gaza and military operations are expected to continue.
North Korea
Local laws and regulations
New Zealanders in North Korea are advised to follow all local laws and regulations and exercise discretion and caution at all times. Foreigners may be arrested, detained or expelled for activities that would not be considered crimes in New Zealand. North Korean authorities have detained a number of foreign visitors in recent years and consequences can be severe.
Political Situation
In January 2017, The Gambia experienced a peaceful transition of power to President Adama Barrow and his coalition government. The political situation has stabilised further, but Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) troops remain in the country training and assisting domestic security forces.
Brazil
Violent Crime
Crime
The crime rate in Vanuatu is low; however, robberies, assaults and sexual assaults against foreigners do occur, including in their homes, particularly in the capital Port Vila. Risks increase after dark, in isolated locations and if you're alone. New Zealanders are advised to pay close attention to their security, ensuring that all doors and windows are locked at night and while absent and that valuables are kept in a safe and secure place.
Ethiopia
Care and careful preparation should be taken with all travel in Ethiopia due to ongoing civil unrest and armed conflicts in the northern part of the country, which could spread to new areas without warning.
For adventurous New Zealanders, motorcycle travel can seem like a great way to see Viet Nam and travel around the country. But travellers are reminded of the significant risks associated with motor cycle travel in Viet Nam. Accidents are common and can result in serious injury and even fatalities. Rental motorcycles are often poorly maintained and the helmets provided do not meet New Zealand safety standards. Roading conditions also bring additional risks and the riding habits you are used to in New Zealand are likely to differ vastly in Viet Nam.
Cuba
Crime
There is a risk of petty crime and theft. we advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings, especially in Havana. Pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. New Zealanders are advised to take steps to safeguard and secure personal belongings and avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as jewellery, cameras and mobile devices.
Sri Lanka
The security and economic situation in Sri Lanka has stabilised since the widespread shortages and associated large protests and consequent changes in political leadership in mid-2022. There are still some sporadic shortages (e.g. of some medicines and imported foods), economic position of the country remains fragile, and living conditions of Sri Lankans have significantly deteriorated since early 2022.
