New Zealand

Crime rates in New Zealand are similar to those in Australia.

Thieves often target valuables left in cars and campervans.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Kidnapping

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Cyber security 

Demonstrations and protests

Protests are generally peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Follow the advice of local authorities.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

More information:

• Terrorism
• New Zealand police
• New Zealand Security Intelligence Service

New Zealand experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• earthquakes
• tsunamis
• volcanic activity
• flash flooding
• bushfires

To protect yourself in a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

Monitor local media and other sources, including:

• Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• GetReady website (New Zealand government)

Severe weather

Weather conditions can change quickly. Severe weather can occur.

Creeks and rivers can experience flash flooding after heavy rains.

Rapid weather changes could leave you stranded or injured, particularly if you're in a remote area.

Monitor weather conditions, forecasts and warnings from Metservice.

Take extra care if you're climbing, hiking or in a remote area.

Earthquakes 

Earthquakes are a constant risk in New Zealand.

Most quakes are too small or deep in the earth to feel. However, about 150 to 200 quakes are big enough to feel each year.

Large, damaging earthquakes have occurred and could happen again at any time. Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks.

When an earthquake happens, you're advised to drop, cover and hold. If an earthquake is long or strong, and you're near the coast or large body of water, you should go to higher ground immediately as a tsunami may occur.

If you're indoors during an earthquake:

• move no more than a few steps to a heavy, solid object you can get underneath, and hold onto it
• don't try to run outside
• stay indoors until the shaking stops
• stay away from windows, chimneys, and shelves with heavy objects

If you're in bed:

• hold onto the bed and stay where you are
• protect your head and body with a pillow and blankets

If you're outdoors:

• move to the nearest clear spot
• keep away from buildings, trees, and power lines
• drop to the ground

If you're in a car:

• slow down
• drive to a clear place away from buildings, trees, and power lines
• stay in the car with your seatbelt on until the shaking stops

If you're in a lift:

• stop at the nearest floor and get out

After the earthquake finishes:

• be aware of possible tsunami risks (see below)
• prepare for travel delays
• reconfirm your travel arrangements
• check your accommodation with travel agents and tour operators

Tsunamis

Because of the region's earthquake risk, tsunamis could happen.

All of New Zealand's coastline is at risk of a tsunami. New Zealand is a member of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System.

The National Emergency Management Agency manages the National Tsunami Advisory and Warning Plan and issues tsunami alerts on its website. These are also broadcast by New Zealand media.

A tsunami could arrive within minutes. There may not be time for an official warning.

Move immediately to high ground, or as far inland as possible, if you're near the coast and you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings.

Walk or ride a bike if possible because of potential road congestion.

Volcanoes

New Zealand's active volcanoes can erupt at any time. Volcanic alert levels may rise quickly. You may be ordered to evacuate at short notice.

If there's volcanic activity:

• follow the instructions and advice of local authorities
• follow evacuation orders
• take official warnings seriously

If you plan to visit active volcanoes or surrounding areas:

• monitor the GeoNet website
• get local advice first

Visit GeoNet for information about volcanic activity at:

• Mt Ruapehu
• Mt Tongariro
• White Island
• other active volcanic sites

Bushfires

Parts of New Zealand experience bushfires in hot, dry conditions.

If there's a bushfire, monitor local media and follow the advice from the local authorities.

Most people enjoy adventure activities safely in New Zealand. However, these activities carry risks.

Several serious accidents involving Australians and other travellers have occurred. People have died.

Some operators have been found to be negligent.

Safety standards can differ both between individual operators, and from standards in Australia.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• be aware of the risks of individual or group activities
• check the safety standards of operators
• check to see if operators meet industry standards

Safety risks can increase in severe weather and remote areas.

Before you do any adventure activities:

• make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activities
• understand what your travel and other insurance doesn't cover
• only book with operators with appropriate safety equipment and practices
• always use the safety equipment, even if others don't

If you're trekking or travelling in a remote area:

• get updates on local weather from the Department of Conservation (DOC)
• check conditions with the local DOC visitor centre for further information
• tell your family and friends your plans
• carry a personal locator beacon
• avoid creeks and rivers after heavy rains

You can hire personal locator beacons throughout New Zealand.

When you return from a hike, check in with:

• the DOC visitor centre
• your family and friends
• anyone else who knew your plans

More information:

• AdventureSmart
• Mountain Safety Council

For specific information on bringing medication into New Zealand, read the New Zealand Customs Service.

General health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia. There is currently an increased risk of measles in New Zealand.

Measles is very infectious and can be severe, requiring hospitalisation.

If you're going overseas, make sure you're fully vaccinated. Vaccination is the best prevention. 

More information:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bring back memories not measles

Medical facilities

Medical facilities and services are of a similar standard to those in Australia.

Reciprocal health care

New Zealand and Australia have a reciprocal health care agreement. This lets Australians access public medical facilities and care.

It doesn't:

• include ongoing treatment of existing health conditions
• cover extra accommodation costs or flights for family members
• cover flights to Australia
• replace the need for travel insurance.

To access services under the agreement:

• show your current Australian passport or evidence of permanent residency
• show your valid Medicare card.

More information:

• New Zealand Ministry of Health
• Reciprocal health care agreement (Services Australia)

Accident Compensation Corporation

If you're injured in an accident, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) covers the costs of hospital treatment.

The cover provided by ACC:

• offers injury cover on a 'no-fault' basis — this means accident victims don’t have a legal right to sue a third party
• ends once you've left New Zealand
• doesn't replace your need for travel insurance

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for possessing and using drugs may include fines and prison sentences.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Alcohol laws

You'll need photo ID to buy alcohol or enter licensed premises.

You can't use your Australian driver's licence.

Approved IDs include:

• current passport
• current New Zealand driver's licence
• Kiwi Access Card

More information:

• Approved ID

Quarantine regulations

New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules.

If you don't declare items for quarantine, you'll get an instant fine.

If you make a false statement, you'll face heavy fines and prison sentences.

Customs requirements 

When you arrive, customs officers may check electronic devices they suspect are being used in criminal activity. Devices may include:

• mobile phones
• portable tablets
• hard drives
• laptops
• digital cameras

New Zealand recognises dual nationality.

If you're an Australian-New Zealand dual national, use your Australian passport to enter and leave Australia.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. Contact NZ Immigration for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. If you don't meet the conditions, the Australian Government can't help you.

Visa conditions 

Most Australian citizens don’t need a visa to enter unless you have a criminal record or if you've been deported from any country.

Australian permanent residents need to apply online for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) to enter New Zealand. Australian citizens are exempt from this rule.

For more information refer to the NZ Government Immigration website.

If you've been:

• convicted of any crimes, or
• deported from any country

Contact a New Zealand Visa Application Centre for advice well before you travel.

New Zealand Visa Application Centre

Level 6

88 Pitt Street

Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: +61 2 8279 8649 Website: vfsglobal 

Email: info.inzsydney@vfshelpline.com

Border measures

You must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration Form (NZTD) before passport control on arrival. You need to answer questions about your trip and what you’re bringing into the country. You can complete it online or by using the NZTD app, there's no cost. 

If you are a New Zealand visa or NZeTA holder you still need to complete an NZTD.

For more information see the NZTD website. 

Maritime border

New Zealand's maritime border is open to all vessels, including foreign flagged vessels, cruise ships, recreational vessels (such as yachts and small craft) and specialist vessels used in research and exploration. 

For more information see the New Zealand Customs Service – Travelling to New Zealand webpage. 

More information:

• Travelling to New Zealand (New Zealand Government)
• Information for visa holders (New Zealand Immigration)

Validity

For specific information on passports in New Zealand, read the NZ Immigration website.

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar ($NZ).

Declare all amounts over $NZ10,000 or equivalent on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATM availability is similar to Australia.

You can use debit or credit cards in most places as you would in Australia.

Contact your bank to let them know you'll use your cards overseas.

Driving permit

You can drive for up to 12 months with your Australian driver's licence.

After that, you'll need to get a local licence.

More information:

• Driver licences

Road travel

Ice, snow, fog, high winds and roaming animals can cause hazardous conditions. Heavy rain can cause landslides across roads.

Outside major cities, there aren't many motorways. Overtaking opportunities are limited.

Prepare for longer travel times than in Australia.

Railway crossings don't always have barriers, particularly in country areas.

If you're driving in mountain areas or to ski fields, be aware that roads:

• are often narrow and unpaved
• may not have safety barriers
• may require you to use snow chains
• may only be accessible by 4WD

It’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, but there is an exemption for 111 calls in genuine emergencies. Hands-free devices and 2-way radio are permitted.

If you plan to drive in New Zealand:

• learn the local road rules before driving
• be careful if there's ice, snow, fog or high winds
• check for road closures and warnings with the New Zealand Transport Agency
• equip yourself for current and possible weather conditions

More information:

• Driving or riding
• Driving in New Zealand

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Taxis and rideshares are generally reliable. The standards are similar to Australia.

The New Zealand Transport Authority regulates taxis and rideshare apps.

Public transport

Buses, trains and ferries operate throughout New Zealand. State-run services are also regulated by the New Zealand Transport Authority.

Take care of your belongings on public transport.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Several international cruise lines stopover in New Zealand. 

• Going on a cruise

Air travel

Check New Zealand's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 111.

Medical emergencies

Call 111.

Police

Call 111 or contact the nearest police station.

Call 105 or go online for Police non-emergencies.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Wellington, or the Australian Consulate-General in Auckland.

Australian High Commission, Wellington

72-76 Hobson Street
Thorndon
Wellington, New Zealand

Phone: +64 4 473 6411
Fax: +64 4 498 7103
Website: newzealand.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in New Zealand

Instagram: @AusHCNZ
X: @AusHCNZ

Australian Consulate-General

Level 7, HSBC Tower 
186-194 Quay Street
Auckland City, New Zealand

Phone: +64 9 921 8800
Fax: +64 9 921 8820

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia