Health, safety and security in New Zealand

On an escorted tour to New Zealand you will have a tour guide with you who will be able to offer you health and safety advice as we travel through the country, but below is some essential information for you to be aware of before you go.

Security

New Zealand has a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world, particularly in the countryside. In general you should meet polite, helpful, down-to-earth, friendly people, but it is still wise to apply normal caution and pay attention to securing belongings. No one wants any unnecessary trouble while on the holiday of a lifetime!

Health

The Department of Health makes no specific recommendations for visitors to New Zealand. However, you may like to check with your doctor before departure and read the Department of Health booklet Health Advice for Travellers, available from post offices and supplied with your travel documents. There are reciprocal health agreements between New Zealand and the UK, so UK citizens are entitled to free treatment as a hospital in-patient, but must pay some charges for services provided as outpatients and by private doctors. Visitors bringing in medications should make sure that they also carry a doctor’s certificate in order to avoid problems with customs. Please note that full and comprehensive medical and personal holiday insurance with Aria Assistance is available through Carefree Travel Service.

Sandflies

In wetter areas, such as Fjiordland, sandflies can be pests, but are effectively controlled by use of insect repellent.

Giardia

This 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 a great deal stronger than much of Europe, so be prepared to wear hats and high factor sun block when out in the sun for more than a few minutes.

Water

New Zealand’s cities and towns have excellent water supplies and in all cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink. Water from rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered before drinking, to avoid stomach upsets.