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Reviewed: 19 August 2010, 14:05 NZDT
Still current at:
03 September 2010
There is some risk to your security in Bangkok and other areas in Thailand not covered below due to the uncertain political situation, potential for civil unrest and threat from terrorism and we advise caution.
There is high risk to your security in the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani and Songkhla because of ongoing criminal and politically-motivated violence. We advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to these provinces. Since 2004 there have been over 4,000 deaths as a result of terrorist and other violent attacks. The Thai Government’s Emergency Decree is in force in the provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat.
There is high risk to your security along the Thailand/Cambodia border in the vicinity of the Preah Vihear temple (Khao Pra Viharn in Thai) and along the Thailand/Burma border and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to these areas. Military forces from both countries are deployed to the region and military clashes occur from time to time. Sporadic conflict near the Burma/Thai border occurs between the Burma military and armed opposition groups as well as between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups (such as drug traffickers).
A major political protest in Bangkok ended violently on 19 May after a concerted operation by Thai security forces against anti-government ‘red shirt’ protesters. There were numerous deaths and injuries. The end of the protest saw a spate of arson attacks and other violence in Bangkok and in some of Thailand’s northern cities. The situation remains volatile and there is potential for further violent acts to occur. New Zealand travellers and residents in Thailand should remain vigilant.
The Thai Government has invoked provisions under the Emergency Decree, to apply in Bangkok and a number of provinces. This gives the security forces additional powers of arrest and detention. The measures may also involve travel restrictions, traffic checkpoints and vehicle and/or people searches. The Emergency Decree is in effect in Bangkok and the provinces of Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima and Udon Thani.
New Zealanders throughout Thailand are strongly advised to avoid all protests and rallies, and any areas of military or security force activity. We recommend you comply with any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities, monitor events closely and remain vigilant as the security situation could change quickly.
Due to the threat from terrorism, New Zealanders are advised to exercise a very high degree of personal security awareness in Thailand. This advice extends also to New Zealanders in or planning to visit popular tourist destinations. Particular care should be taken in public and commercial areas, including landmark places known to be frequented by foreigners, public transport facilities, hotels, bars, tourist resorts and shopping areas. There have been numerous grenade attacks and small explosions in Bangkok and Chiang Mai over recent months. On 25 July 2010, an explosion at a bus stop in central Bangkok killed one person and injured at least eight others. Further attacks cannot be ruled out, particularly against buildings associated with the Thai Government.
It is a requirement under Thai law to carry photo identification at all times. A New Zealand driver’s licence or a photocopy of the biodata page from a passport would be adequate identification in the first instance.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Thailand should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Thailand are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Southeast Asia
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Contact details are
Street Address: M Thai Tower, 14th floor,
All Seasons Place, 87 Wireless Road, Bangkok
Postal Address: PO Box 2719, Bangkok 10500
Telephone: +66 2 254 2530 Facsimile: +66 2 253 9045
Email: nzembbkk@loxinfo.co.th
Website: New Zealand Embassy Thailand [external link]
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200, 1300-1630 hrs
