Last updated: 20 Jan 2012
Security and health
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller site provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to New Zealand. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
It is strongly recommended that Australian travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before their departure. They should confirm that their insurance covers them for the whole time they will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in their policy.
It is also recommended for Australian travellers to register, before travelling, on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, in case of an emergency.
Security
New Zealand is an agricultural nation and therefore biosecurity (quarantine and border control of products coming into the country in shipments or with travellers) is critically important, with all visitors’ luggage now checked by X-ray, and sniffer dogs used at international airports.
It is very important to check before bringing food or other potentially hazardous items into New Zealand. For more quarantine information, visit the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry website.
Health
Australian passport holders are covered for health services in New Zealand (excluding dental and GP visits) through a reciprocal health care agreement between Australian and New Zealand governments. However, full travel insurance is recommended.
Sanitation standards are equivalent to Australia. The quality of town water supplies are excellent and tap water is safe to drink.
In an emergency, dial 111 anywhere in New Zealand from any phone without charge.
Top Business Risks
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