COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution in Solomon Islands (level 2 of 4).

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Solomon Islands

Political Tensions/Civil Unrest
Civil unrest can arise with little notice and political developments have occasionally resulted in violence.  National and provincial elections will take place in Solomon Islands on 17 April 2024.

New Zealanders should avoid any demonstrations, large gatherings or protests, as even those intended to be peaceful could turn violent with little warning. You should closely monitor local media and information sources for advice about safety or security risks. We recommend following the instructions of local authorities and avoiding travel at night in any areas affected by unrest.

Crime
Criminal activity targeting foreigners, such as theft, robbery and burglary, and some acts of violence do occur, especially around Honiara. Such activity is usually related to alcohol consumption, domestic disputes and land issues. There have been incidents of assault at popular tourist sites, beaches, nightclubs, bars, on public buses and at bus stops. Female travellers can be subject to sexual harassment and there have been incidents of sexual assault against tourists. Female travellers should take extra care, and avoid walking alone, particularly at night.

New Zealanders are advised to maintain personal security awareness at all times. As foreigners may be targeted due to their perceived wealth, avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras and jewellery. Ensure that you have effective home security measures in place, and if travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up.

Landmines
Unexploded munitions left over from past conflict are still present throughout the Solomon Islands.  New Zealanders are advised to seek local advice and take care when hiking, boating or diving.

Seismic Activity
Solomon Islands is in an active seismic area, and is subject to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. Travellers should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions in the event of seismic or volcanic activity. Familiarise yourself with general safety procedures in the event of an earthquake. Monitor local media and other sources, and follow the advice of local authorities.  

General Travel Advice
Visitors are required to indicate on entry whether they have previously been vaccinated for, or been infected with measles.  There is no formal requirement to evidence immunisation.  Please read our measles information before travelling.

Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever are wide-spread across Solomon Islands, incidences of malaria have been increasing.  Zika virus, Ross River virus, and chikungunya are also present.  If you’re pregnant, discuss the risk of the Zika virus with your doctor.  Viral and bacterial infections, including gastrointestinal infections, are common.  You should take precautions to reduce the risks of any infection, including those associated with bites or wounds, ie washing hands, drinking bottled water, and treating open wounds or broken skin with clean water and an antiseptic cream or ointment. To protect yourself from disease, make sure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing. Consider taking an anti-malarial medication.

Visitors should be aware that there is limited capacity to respond to emergency situations, although this is slightly better in Honiara than elsewhere.  Medical services are very limited across Solomon Islands.

Be aware of local wildlife.  Street dogs in Honiara roam freely and can be aggressive. Saltwater crocodiles and sharks are common. While attacks on expatriates are rare, on average five people are killed each year in Solomon Islands by crocodiles and the crocodile population size increases by 3-4% annually (due to cessation of commercial hunting in the early 90’s).

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Solomon Islands to avoid offending local sensitivities. Avoid swearing and being affectionate in public.  Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Passenger ferry and flight services throughout Solomon Islands are routinely subject to schedule changes at short notice. Avoid travelling by ferry, as they are often overcrowded and there is a lack of safety regulations.  There are limited marine search-and-rescue services in Solomon Islands. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Solomon Islands should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air and unexpected flight schedule changes.

New Zealanders in Solomon Islands are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand High Commission Honiara, Solomon Islands

Street Address Town Ground, Honiara, Solomon Islands Postal Address PO Box 697, Honiara, Solomon Islands Telephone +677 21 502 Email honiara.info@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/solomon-islands Hours Mon - Fri 0800 - 1200, 1300 - 1630 hrs

See our regional advice for the Pacific