New Zealand travel advice

Some parts of the central Christchurch are currently not accessible to the public following a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in February 2011. If your intend to travel to Christchurch, contact your travel agent, place of stay, or tour provider for confirmation. Christchurch Airport is open to domestic and international flights.

Travellers visiting remote areas should ensure that their journey details are made known to local authorities or friends/relatives before setting out. New Zealand weather can be treacherous, especially in winter.

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.

Most visits to New Zealand are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel