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Reviewed: 20 March 2009, 15:35 NZDT
Still current at:
23 November 2009
There is high risk to your security in areas close to the Iraq border in southeast Turkey due to military operations and terrorist activity. We advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel to these areas. There are restrictions on movement and checkpoints in some parts of the southeast. New Zealanders are advised to follow the directions of the Turkish authorities at all times.
There is some risk to your security elsewhere in Turkey due to the threat from terrorism and we advise caution. There have been a number of terrorist attacks in Turkey. Further attacks could well occur including in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, other major centres, tourist areas and particularly along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
On 11 October 2008, a woman carrying explosives and a detonator was arrested in downtown Istanbul. On 21 August 2008, a bomb attack against a police minibus in Izmir injured several police officers and civilians. On 19 August, in Mersin, terrorists detonated an explosive in their vehicle while being pursued by police, killing one person and injuring several police officers. On 7 August, in Istanbul, mortar shells were used to attack military barracks, injuring three.
On 27 July 2008, two bombs exploded in Istanbul’s eastern district of Gungoren killing 17 and injuring over 150 people. Earlier in July 2008, an attack on the US Consulate in Istanbul killed six people, injuring several others. In July 2008, three German tourists were kidnapped by terrorists while descending from a climb of Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey. They were released 11 days later.
In early 2008, the Kurdistan Freedom Hawks (TAK), made public announcements via their website in which they made specific threats to tourist areas and foreigners in Turkey.
New Zealanders in Turkey should exercise a high degree of personal security awareness especially in commercial and public areas, including landmark places known to be frequented by foreigners, public transport facilities, government buildings, hotels, bars, and popular shopping areas. You should also be security conscious around buildings and sites associated with the Turkish military or security forces.
New Zealanders in Turkey are advised to avoid any political gatherings and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent. Violent demonstrations in the past have resulted in deaths and injuries.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Turkey should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders visiting or living in Turkey are encouraged to record/update their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Europe
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Abolition of border controls in Europe
Contact details are
Street Address Level 4, Iran Caddesi 13, Kavaklidere 06700, Ankara, Turkey
Telephone +90 312 467 9054/6/8 Facsimile +90 312 467 9013
Email nzembassyankara@ttnet.net.tr
Website New Zealand Embassy Turkey [external link]
Office Hours Mon - Thurs 0830 - 1730 Fri 0830 - 1630 (winter) Fri 0830 - 1330 (summer)
Street Address Inonu Caddesi No 92/3 Taksim, 80090 Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone +90 212 244 0272 Facsimile +90 212 251 4004
Email nzhonconist@hatem-law.com.tr
Print this page Tuesday, 29 September 2009, 16:03 NZDT
