New Zealand is one of the top spots for globetrotters worldwide. In fact, in a data presented by Statistics New Zealand, almost 2.5 million international visitors were recorded to arrive in 2015, and expected to grow in 2016.
Travelling around the country is pretty simple. But, there are a few things that foreign travellers may find different to their home country.
In this post, we want to highlight some safety travel advices that every foreign traveller must know before flying to the Land of the Kiwis.
Learn the weather conditions
Although most part of the country is filled with snow, the weather in New Zealand can be quite unpredictable for many, especially for first time travellers. New Zealand is an island, and changeable weather is the norm – we are famous for sometimes having 4 seasons in one day.
Of course sometimes other less frequent natural calamities an occur such as earthquakes and volcanic activity – we are a very young country geologically. When you undertake adventure activities, make the necessary enquiries on the safety standards and weather conditions during the dates of your arrival.
Obtain travel insurance
The country has been known for extreme adventure sports on water, land, and snow. So, Australia’s government agency the Smart Traveller suggests that foreign travellers must get an appropriate travel insurance as well as understand whether they will be covered with certain activities and circumstances, such as snow or adventure sports.
A comprehensive policy for a family holiday should cover a traveller for medical and hospital expenses, luggage and personal effects, cancellation cover, travel delay expenses, personal liability, rental vehicle excess, family emergency, and alternative transport, as suggested by a guide to keeping your kids safe while on a holiday. Accidents can happen to anyone at any point of the day, even when you’re having fun on a vacation. Thus, it’s highly advisable to be covered by a reliable travel insurance provider before you even leave your home country.
Get a fit to travel approval from a physician
Six weeks before travelling to New Zealand, make sure you get a green signal from your health care provider. Make sure that the routine vaccines are up-to-date, including the yellow fever vaccination. Most travellers get the yellow fever vaccination, because it is recommended for their protection and upon entering the country. Illnesses related to insects (dengue fever, West Nile virus, and Japanese encephalitis) and animals (rabies) are still prone in New Zealand, so make sure your physician is well aware of these risks to provide you with the necessary precautions, vaccine or boosters.
Personal security
Travelling to a foreign country is a responsibility that requires preparation and knowledge, before even visiting the destination. You are responsible for your own safety abroad. Thus, knowing important security risks is necessary in your planning stage. Street crimes is also apparent in New Zealand, especially in major cities. Cases of theft have been recorded from hotel rooms, unattended vehicles, and even to some tourist sites. Secure all your belongings at all times. If going to remote areas, check with local authorities first before travelling. Take note as well that cellular coverage may be limited in remote areas.
- Every visitor is advised to exercise normal safety precautions in NZ. Apart from exercising common sense, it’s best to watch out for any suspicious behaviors, as you would in your own homeland.
- Travellers are also subject to the nation’s law. It’s best to monitor the media and other reliable sources for any changes in local travelling conditions.
We’re certain that the tips mentioned above will be of great help in making your trip to New Zealand stress-free. Bon Voyage!
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