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Reviewed: 06 October 2011, 13:20 NZDT
Still current at:
17 May 2012
There is extreme risk to your security in the northern areas of Sri Lanka due to post-conflict security force activity (including de-mining) and we advise against all travel to these areas. The northern area encompasses all areas north of the boundary line from Mullikkulam on the north west coast to Kokkilai on the north east coast (Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Kilinnochchi and Jaffna Districts).
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Sri Lanka, including in the capital Colombo and we advise caution. While the security situation in Sri Lanka has improved significantly over the last two years, the country still operates under a high level of security with a widespread military presence.
The fighting between the Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) ended in May 2009 and all territory is now under government control. The risk of politically motivated violence, however, remains. Isolated attacks cannot be ruled out and could occur in places frequented by foreigners. New Zealanders in Sri Lanka are advised to avoid all protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.
New Zealanders travelling in Sri Lanka should maintain a high level of personal security awareness. We recommend you monitor events closely and comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities.
Piracy is a problem in coastal areas of Sri Lanka and mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures. For more information see the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Sri Lanka should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Sri Lanka are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for South Asia
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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The New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, India, is accredited to Sri Lanka
Contact details are:
Street address Sir Edmund Hillary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India
Telephone +91 11 4688 3170 Facsimile +91 11 2688 3165
Email: nzhc@airtelmail.in
Website New Zealand High Commission New Delhi [external link]
Office hours Mon – Fri 0830 - 1700 hrs
