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Reviewed: 30 June 2009, 11:30 NZDT
Still current at:
23 November 2009
There is high risk to your security in Zimbabwe and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel. Underlying political tension, a poor economic situation and high levels of violent crime have created an unstable security situation that has the potential to deteriorate with little warning.
The political situation in Zimbabwe remains unsettled, despite the formation of an inclusive government in February 2009. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings as police and security forces will use force to suppress demonstrations and any perceived opposition to the Government.
Since 2000, the majority of Zimbabwe’s farms have been forcefully occupied or taken over by members of the National War Veterans’ Association and other militants. We recommend you avoid travel to farming areas and any area where war veterans are active or incidents of violence are taking place. You should heed any local advice about areas to avoid and keep yourself up to date with local developments. It is possible that New Zealanders may get caught up in violence directed at others.
Roadblocks are common throughout Zimbabwe. We advise you to comply with instructions issued by police at roadblocks and produce identification if asked. You should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. It is an offence to continue driving when the President’s motorcade goes past, regardless of the side of the road you are on.
As the economy in Zimbabwe deteriorates, the level of crime, including violent crime, is increasing. Armed robberies and car-jackings occur and there are reports that foreign residents are being targeted due to their perceived wealth. New Zealanders in Zimbabwe are advised to be security conscious at all times and maintain a low profile. We recommend you ensure your place of accommodation is secure at all times. Particular care should be taken when leaving banks or using Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). We advise against the use of public transport and recommend you avoid travelling alone and after dark and to isolated areas.
The deteriorating economic situation has affected many basic services throughout Zimbabwe. There are frequent power cuts and shortages of food, water and fuel from time to time. Zimbabwean landlines are unreliable and near collapse and mobile phone lines, while more reliable, are also prone to failure or interference. There are shortages of essential medicines in hospitals and pharmacies and also trained medical staff. There is currently a cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe affecting most parts of the country.
We recommend New Zealanders in Zimbabwe ensure their travel documents are kept up to date and readily available in case the security situation deteriorates and it becomes necessary to leave the country at short notice. New Zealanders should have their own contingency plan in place for departure. If the security situation deteriorates quickly, departure options may be severely limited. As there is no resident New Zealand diplomatic or consular representation in Zimbabwe, the ability of the government to assist any New Zealand citizens is very limited.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Zimbabwe should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check whether any exclusions apply given the current situation in Zimbabwe.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Zimbabwe are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Contact details are
Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa
Postal Address Private Bag x 17, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Facsimile +27 12 435 9001
Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za
Website New Zealand High Commission Pretoria [external link]
Office Hours Mon - Fri 0800 - 1630hrs
