Sri Lanka

Overview

There are more significant safety and security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand

Sri Lanka has largely stabilised since the widespread shortages,  large protests and consequent change in political leadership in mid-2022. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Sri Lanka should be aware that:

• There are still sporadic shortages of basic goods (including medicines and some food) due to the economic position of the country. 
• here is no longer any rationing of fuel within the country, but there may occasionally be difficulties or delays obtaining specific types of fuel, particularly outside of Colombo. 
• Severe weather-related events such as thunderstorms, as well as infrastructure issues with the electrical grid, means short power outages or power surges are not uncommon.  
• Severe rainfall, flooding and landslides can occur during the monsoon season
• Watch out for petty crime, especially in the tourist areas.
• Health and safety risks are prevalent, and include high rates of mosquito-borne illness, as well as regular traffic accidents.  

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

See below for detailed travel advice. 

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