Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas

  • Reviewed: 22 September 2023, 15:30 NZST
  • Still current at: 19 March 2024

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COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise normal safety and security precautions

Exercise normal safety and security precautions in Vanuatu.

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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.

Seismic activity
Vanuatu is in an active seismic zone and prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity, with an associated risk of tsunamis. There are a number of active volcanoes in Vanuatu. Relevant information and the latest reports on volcanic activity throughout Vanuatu (and any current cyclone or tsunami warnings), is available from the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department website. Travellers can also check with the Vanuatu Tourism Office  or the Tafea Provincial Council Office for Mount Yasur in Tanna.

New Zealanders in Vanuatu are advised to follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including ensuring awareness of, and adherence to, any designated volcano exclusion zones or evacuation orders. If you hear a tsunami warning siren or experience a long or strong tremor, move to higher ground and follow the instructions of local authorities.

General travel advice
Medical services in Vanuatu, especially outside of Port Vila, can be limited. We advise New Zealanders travelling or living in Vanuatu to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

Same-sex relations are not criminalised, but are not widely socially accepted, particularly outside of Port Vila. New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Vanuatu to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

The Pacific Tropical Cyclone season runs from November to April, but cyclones may also occur outside of this period.  In the event of a cyclone or any other natural disaster, follow the advice of local authorities and your hotel or resort management.

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


The New Zealand High Commission Port Vila, Vanuatu

Street Address La Casa D’Andrea E Luciano, Rue Pierre Lamy St, Port Vila, Vanuatu Postal Address PO Box 161, Port Vila, Vanuatu Telephone +678 33 933 Fax +678 22 518 Email nzvanuatu@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.nzembassy.com/vanuatu Hours Mon-Fri 0900-1200, 1300-1500 hrs

See our regional advice for the Pacific

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New Zealand High Commission Vanuatu

Street Address
La Casa D’Andrea E Luciano, Rue Pierre Lamy St, Port Vila, Vanuatu

Telephone: +678 33 933

Fax: +678 22 518

Email: nzvanuatu@mfat.govt.nz

Website: http://www.nzembassy.com/vanuatu

Hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1200, 1300-1500 hrs

Related advice from other countries

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