Genvisec advises that all travel to New Zealand can continue.

 

Crime

 

Crime levels are generally low, but street crime occurs in major towns and cities. Thefts from unattended vehicles, especially hire cars and camper vans in major tourist areas (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. Don’t leave possessions in unattended vehicles even if out of sight in a locked boot. Don’t leave valuables in hotel rooms. Use the hotel safe if possible. Keep passports, travellers’ cheques, credit cards, etc separate.

 

Local travel

 

There have been a number of tragic accidents involving foreign visitors, including during extreme sports activities. If you are taking part in extreme sports check that the company is well established in the industry and that your insurance covers you. If you are visiting remote areas, check with local tourist authorities for advice before setting out. Make sure you register your details with a visitor information centre or leave details with family or friends. Weather conditions can quickly become treacherous in some areas. Keep yourself informed of regional weather forecasts.

 

Road travel  

 

EU driving licences are valid for use for a maximum of 12 months.

 

While road conditions are generally good in New Zealand, it takes a while to get used to local driving conditions. Even the main highways can be narrow, winding and hilly. Read a copy of the Road Code (the official guide to traffic rules and traffic safety) before driving.

 

In 2013 there were 254 road deaths in New Zealand (source: Department for Transport). This equates to 5.6 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the EU average of 2.8 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2013.

 

You should take out private motor vehicle insurance. Accident victims don’t 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. You should therefore make sure you have adequate travel and accident insurance.

 

Local laws and customs

Importing illegal drugs is punishable by up to 8 - 12 years’ imprisonment.

 

New Zealand has an established tradition of tolerance towards homosexuality, but there are still isolated incidents of homophobic related crimes. Gay and lesbian travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas.

 

If you travel to the Cook Islands or the Islands of Niue or Tokelau, check local customs and courtesies with local visitors’ offices.

 

Under a reciprocal health agreement, UK nationals who live in the UK and who are on a short-term visit to New Zealand are eligible for immediately necessary healthcare under the health system on the same terms as citizens of New Zealand. Other EU nationals do not have the same rights.

 

Despite this reciprocal agreement and the Accident Compensation Commission you should make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

Medical facilities in the Cook Islands and the Islands of Niue and Tokelau are limited. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation to mainland New Zealand is likely to be the only option for treatment. Make sure your insurance policy covers this eventuality.

 

Cases of Dengue fever, Chikungunya virus and Zika virus have been confirmed in many Pacific Islands including the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga and Vanuatu. You should take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. 

 

Research has shown that asthma sufferers may be more at risk of an attack in New Zealand and sufferers should be suitably prepared.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 111 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Entry requirements

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 1 month from the date of exit from New Zealand.

 

The New Zealand authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.

 

Visas 

 

New Zealand’s immigration rules are strict, particularly regarding employment. Anyone wishing to work will need a visa allowing employment.

 

EU passport holders can enter New Zealand as a visitor for up to 6 months on arrival without a visa, provided you can satisfy an Immigration Officer that you meet the requirements of the immigration rules. Visitors must have an onward ticket. 

 

UK Emergency Travel Documents

 

Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are valid for entry into New Zealand when accompanied by a permanent residence, work or study visa. ETDs are accepted for holiday-makers as long as New Zealand is not the final destination. ETDs are also accepted for airside transit and exit from New Zealand.

 

Quarantine and bio security

 

New Zealand has very strict bio-security regulations. It is illegal to import most foodstuffs (meat and meat products, honey, fruit, dairy produce) and strict penalties are handed out to those breaking these rules. Take care when importing wood products, golf clubs, footwear, tents, fishing equipment and items made from animal skin. The immigration arrivals card has full details. If in doubt, declare items to a Ministry of Agriculture official or dump them in one of the bins available at the airport. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in a heavy fine of up to $100,000 or imprisonment.

 

Medication

 

There are some restrictions on bringing medication into New Zealand. Visit the  New Zealand Customs website for more information. If you arrive in New Zealand with any prescription medicines, you must declare it on your passenger arrival card.

 

Natural disasters

New Zealand is located in a seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes, there are also a number of active volcanoes in New Zealand. Follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services in the event of a natural disaster