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Reviewed: 09 March 2010, 11:57 NZDT
Still current at:
17 May 2012
There is extreme risk to your security in Haiti and we advise against all travel due to lawlessness and violent crime.
In January 2010, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck close to the capital Port-au-Prince. The earthquake caused extensive loss of life and widespread damage to buildings and essential services in and around the capital. There are shortages of food, water, shelter and medical supplies. Telecommunication services and power have been severely disrupted. Scheduled passenger flights to Port-au-Prince resumed service on 19 February.
The security situation in Haiti is unstable and there are reports of a breakdown in law and order in Port-au-Prince following the earthquake. Looting and random shootings in incidents of street robbery have been reported in Port-au-Prince. The local authorities are in a state of disarray and do not have the capacity to maintain law and order or provide assistance.
Any New Zealanders who decide to travel or remain in Haiti against our advice should seek professional security advice, exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times and avoid all travel at night.
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Haiti, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who get into trouble is severely limited.
New Zealanders living or travelling in Haiti should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Haiti – exclusions may well apply.
New Zealanders living or travelling in Haiti are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for the Caribbean
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