Asia and Oceania

New Zealand
Still current at: 26 November 2009 Updated: 25 August 2009

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular statistics). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

(see travel advice legal disclaimer)

Travel advice for this country

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Pickpocketing and other street crime occur in major urban areas. Reports of thefts from unattended vehicles, especially hire cars/camper vans in major tourist areas (e.g. the Coromandel peninsula, Rotorua and Queenstown) are on the increase. There has also been an increase in the number of thefts from hotel/motel rooms in some tourist areas.

Do not leave possessions in unattended vehicles even if out of sight in a locked boot. Do not leave valuables in hotel/motel rooms, but use safe boxes when available. Keep passports, travellers' cheques, credit cards etc separate.

Political Situation

New Zealand Country Profile

Local Travel

There have been a number of tragic accidents involving British visitors; these also include extreme sporting accidents. If you intend to participate in extreme sports you should check that the company is well established in the industry and your insurance covers you. If you intend visiting remote areas, you should check with local tourist authorities for advice before setting out. You should ensure that you register your details with a Visitor Information Centre or family or friends. Weather conditions can quickly become treacherous in some areas and you should keep yourself informed of regional weather forecasts.

Road Travel

Whilst road conditions are generally good in New Zealand, it takes a little while to get used to local driving conditions.

In 2007 there were 422 road deaths in New Zealand (source: DfT). This equates to 10.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

You are advised to read a copy of the Road Code (the official guide to traffic rules and traffic safety) before driving. Particular attention should be given to the section covering the right of way rules, which are different from other countries. UK driving licences are valid for use for a maximum of 12 months.

Motor insurance is not a legal requirement in New Zealand. Therefore, even though the UK has a reciprocal Healthcare Agreement with New Zealand, private accident insurance is recommended. This is because New Zealand law has removed the right of accident victims to sue a third party in the event of an accident. Instead the Accident Compensation Commission (ACC) helps pay for your care if you are injured as the result of an accident. However, the ACC only covers the cost of treatment in New Zealand and delayed travel or loss of income in a third country is not covered.

For further information see Driving Abroad.

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Contacts

New Zealand, Wellington, British High Commission

Address:

44 Hill Street
Wellington 6011

Mailing Address:
P O Box 1812
Wellington 6140

Telephone:

(+64) (4) 924 2888 - This number is NOT for passport or visa enquiries

Visa - 0900 48472 charges apply
0800 448 972 charged to your credit card
Passport - 0044 208 082 4727 charged to your credit card
0900 990 202 charges apply

Fax:

(+64) (4) 473 4982 - Policy/Comms
(+64) (4) 924 2810 - Passports
(+64) (4) 924 2809 - Corporate Services

Office hours:

Office hours: GMT: Sun-Thurs: 2045-0500 (Personal Callers to Consular Section between 2100-0200 only)
Local time: Mon-Fri: 0845-1700 (Personal Callers to Consular Section between 0900-1400 only)

Website: http://ukinnewzealand.fco.gov.uk/en/