Asia and Oceania

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• Natural disasters
• General
 

Safety and security

Safety and Security - Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism. However 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. See our Terrorism Abroad page.

Safety and Security - Crime

Street crimes 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) have increased. There has also been an increase in the number of thefts from hotel 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 rooms, but use safe boxes when available.  Keep passports, travellers' cheques, credit cards, etc separate. See our Victims of Crime Abroad page.

Safety and Security - 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 do check that the company is well established in the industry and that your insurance covers you. If you intend visiting remote areas, check with local tourist authorities for advice before setting out. Ensure that you register your details with a Visitor Information Centre or family or friends. Weather conditions can quickly become treacherous in some areas so keep yourself informed of regional weather forecasts.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Road Travel  

Whilst road conditions are generally good in New Zealand, it takes a little while to get used to local driving conditions. Even the main highways can be narrow, winding and hilly.

In 2010 there were 375 road deaths in New Zealand (source: DfT). This equates to 8.7 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 3.1 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2010.

Read a copy of the Road Code (the official guide to traffic rules and traffic safety) before driving. UK driving licences are valid for use for a maximum of 12 months. Motor insurance is not a legal requirement in New Zealand. Therefore, private motor vehicle  insurance is recommended. 

See our Driving Abroad page.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Accident Compensation Commission

Accident victims do not have a legal right to sue a third party in the event of an accident in New Zealand. 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. Travel and Accident Insurance is again recommended.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Cook Islands

Most visits to the Cook Islands are trouble-free. Check that local water sports and tour operators have adequate insurance. The level of serious crime is low, but incidents of petty theft do occur. Do not leave your belongings unattended. Use hotel safes for passports and valuables.

Medical facilities are limited and therefore medical evacuation by air ambulance may be necessary. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation to mainland New Zealand is likely to be the only option for treatment and you should make sure your insurance policy covers this eventuality.

The current Dengue Fever risk is moderate.  For more information see this NaTHNaC information sheet.

Check with local visitors' bureaux on local customs/courtesies.

There is no resident British Diplomatic Mission in the Cook Islands and currently no Honorary Consul in the Cook Islands. British citizens needing assistance should contact the New Zealand High Commission:

Physical address: 1st floor, Philatelic Bureau Building, Takuvaine Road, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Postal Address PO Box 21, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Telephone +682 22 201 Fax +682 21 241
Email: nzhcraro@oyster.net.ck  
Routine consular matters are covered by the British High Commission in Wellington.  

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Niue and Tokelau

Most visits to the islands of Niue and Tokelau are trouble-free. Check with local visitors’ bureaux on local customs/courtesies.

Medical facilities are limited and therefore medical evacuation by air ambulance may be necessary. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation to mainland New Zealand is likely to be the only option for treatment and you should make your insurance policy covers this eventuality.

There is no resident British Diplomatic Mission in either Niue or Tokelau. Routine consular matters are covered by the British High Commission in Wellington.

British nationals needing assistance in Nuie should contact the New Zealand High Commission:

Address: Tapeu, Alofi, PO Box 78NIUE,
Tel: +683 4022; Fax: +683 4173,
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 0730 to 1200hrs, 1300 to 1600hrs.  

British nationals needing assistance in Tokelau should contact:

The Honorary British Consul in Samoa:
Steve Rogers
PO Box 1953, Apia

Telephone: +685 27123
Mobile: +685 7733562

Safety and Security - Political Situation
New Zealand Country Profile