Travel Advisories

[Lovelee]

China

Reviewed: 26 January 2009, 13:52 NZDT
Still current at: 26 January 2009

There is some risk to your security in Tibet and in Tibetan areas located in the provinces of Yunnan, Sichuan, Gansu and Qinghai due to the risk of civil unrest and we advise caution.

There is some risk to your security in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region. There was a series of bombings in August 2008, resulting in deaths, and we advise caution.

There is some risk to your security in the earthquake affected areas in Sichuan Province and we advise caution.

In March 2008, several days of protests in Tibet turned violent, resulting in widespread rioting and property damage in Lhasa. The Chinese authorities have reopened Tibet to foreign travellers, however New Zealanders should be aware that demonstrations and violence could occur with little warning.

Protests and demonstrations were reported to have occurred in other parts of China, including in the Tibetan areas located in the neighbouring provinces of Qinghai, Gansu, Sichuan and Yunnan during March and the following months.

New Zealanders in China are advised to avoid all areas where protests, demonstrations and marches are taking place. If you are in an area where there are protests you should stay indoors, comply with any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities, and avoid any unnecessary movement through the streets until the situation is under control.

In August 2008 a number of bombings occurred in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region in northwest China. Although they do not appear to be targeted against foreign nationals, we recommend that New Zealanders travelling to the region exercise a high degree of caution.

An earthquake in Sichuan province in May 2008 resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and injuries, and caused significant damage to property, transport and communications infrastructure throughout the region, followed by floods and landslides.

New Zealanders in or travelling to the region should monitor local news reports and follow the instructions of local authorities.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in China should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealand citizens travelling or resident in China are encouraged to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

[Lovelee]

Libya

Reviewed: 26 January 2009, 13:52 NZDT
Still current at: 26 January 2009

There is extreme risk to your security in the border regions with Niger, Chad and Sudan due to instability in the region and we advise against all travel to these areas.There has been an increase in military activity due to ongoing problems with illegal immigration and armed banditry in these areas.

There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Libya due to the threat from terrorism and we advise caution. New Zealanders in Libya should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, particularly in public and commercial areas.

New Zealand travellers are advised to avoid public gatherings and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Libya to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Libya should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Libya are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.