Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required to enter New Zealand.

Safety Precautions

There are absolutely no dangerous or poisonous animals or insects in New Zealand.

Variable Weather

Weather conditions in New Zealand alpine areas can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold wet weather if you plan to walk in our National Parks… whatever the time of year.

Sandflies

In wetter areas, particularly in Fiordland, sandflies can be pests, but are effectively controlled by use of an insect repellent.

Giardia

Giardia is a water-borne parasite that causes diarrhoea. To avoid contracting it, it is best not to drink water from lakes, ponds or rivers without first boiling, chemically treating or filtering it.

Sunburn

New Zealand’s clear, unpolluted atmosphere and relatively low latitudes produce sunlight stronger than much of Europe or North America, so be prepared to wear a hat and sun block if you plan to be out in the sun for more than 10 minutes.

General Insurance and Safety

New Zealand is one of the safest holiday destinations in the world. However, you are advised to observe the same precautions for your personal safety and possessions as you would in any other country or at home. We recommend you invest in comprehensive travel insurance before departing.

Health and Medical Insurance

We strongly advise you to arrange your own health insurance. New Zealand’s public and private medical/hospital facilities provide a high standard of treatment and service but it is important to note that these services are not free to visitors, except as a result of an accident.

Medication

Visitors bringing in a quantity of medication are advised to carry a doctor’s certificate to avoid possible problems with New Zealand Customs. Doctor’s prescriptions are needed to obtain certain drugs in New Zealand.

Accident Compensation Scheme

Visitors to New Zealand are covered under the National Accident Compensation Scheme for personal injury by accident. Benefits include some medical and hospital expenses, but do not include loss of earnings outside New Zealand. We therefore recommend that your travel insurance policy also covers accidents.

Accident Advice for Visitors

A private company called Accident Info Services can advise visitors to New Zealand on how best to access New Zealand’s health system should they have an accident or need medical attention for an illness. This 24-hour service can give advice on where to go and can arrange for a medical practitioner to visit the patient.

You can access the service by telephoning +64 9 529-0488. No prior arrangements need to be made. For free information on the service once you are in New Zealand, telephone 0800 263-345.

Smoking

To protect people from the health effects of second-hand smoke, smoking in all hospitality venues, including bars, restaurants, cafes, and casinos, is prohibited in New Zealand. If you smoke, then please remember to smoke outside.