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Reviewed: 19 June 2009, 16:00 NZDT
Still current at:
08 November 2009
There is extreme risk to your security in the border areas with Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq and we advise against all travel to these areas. We advise against all travel within 100km of the entire Iran/Afghanistan border and all travel east of the line running from Bam to Jask close to the Pakistan border due to the insecure security situation stemming from drug-trafficking, banditry, terrorism and the risk of kidnapping. In May 2009, 25 people were killed and 178 injured in an explosion in a mosque in Zahedan. We advise against all travel within 10km of the entire Iran/Iraq border due to the illegal movement of people and goods across the border and security force action against this activity.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Iran due to the threat from terrorism and civil unrest and we advise caution. New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious at all times, exercising particular care in public and commercial areas. Iran has recently experienced a number of terrorist attacks and acts of political violence. In April 2008, 14 people were killed and more than 200 wounded in an explosion at a mosque in Shiraz.
Political developments in Iran and the region could trigger demonstrations and protests. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, rallies and public gatherings as they could turn violent with little warning. If you are in an area affected by demonstrations or violence, you should find a safe location, remain indoors and heed any local advice. We recommend you monitor local events closely.
Following the Presidential Elections on 12 June 2009, there have been a number of demonstrations and violent disturbances across Tehran and other cities, including those popular with tourists such as Shiraz and Esfahan. Violent clashes between protestors and the police and local militia (basij) have occurred. Further demonstrations are expected and further violence cannot be ruled out. The local authorities have restricted internet and phone connections in recent days so making contact with people in Iran may be difficult.
New Zealanders in Iran should be aware of, and adhere to any restrictions in place on travel to certain areas of Iran. Many areas of the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf are highly sensitive politically. The waters around the islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs in the southern Persian Gulf are particularly sensitive and militarily patrolled. Foreign nationals have been detained in the past for entering water near these islands.
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Iran to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Iran should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Iran are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for the Middle East
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are:
Street Address No 1, Second Park Alley, Sousan Street, North Golestan Complex, Aghdasiyeh Street, Niavaran, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
Telephone +98 21 2612 2175 or +44 20 7316 8972 (via London)
Facsimile +98 21 2612 1973 or +44 20 7316 8954 (via London)
Email Tehran@nzembassy.org
Website: http://www.nzembassy.com/iran
Office Hours Sun–Thu, 0800–1230;
1300–1500 hrs
Print this page Tuesday, 29 September 2009, 16:02 NZDT
