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ALL New Zealand citizens travelling on a NZ passport need to obtain a visa prior to travelling to mainland China.
Visitors to China can expect tightened security procedures in the lead up to the Olympics and this may impact on visa issuing procedures.
New Zealanders are advised to apply for their visa to China in the country they are ordinarily resident. (If you live in New Zealand, you should obtain your visa before you leave.)
Individuals travelling on a NZ passport do not need to obtain a visa prior to travelling if they are ONLY going to visit Hong Kong. However if you intend to visit Hong Kong from the Chinese mainland and then return to the Chinese mainland you should ensure you have a double or multiple-entry visa.
Note: You cannot leave China if your visa has expired. If you want to stay longer than your original visa, you must get your visa extended at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Entry and Exit Bureau.
For more information on visa applications, see the website of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in New Zealand.
China does not recognise dual nationality and will not allow consular access by the New Zealand Embassy or Consulate to New Zealanders detained by Chinese authorities if they have entered China on a Chinese passport or other travel document. Consular access is, however, allowed to those who travel on New Zealand passports.
It is a requirement of Chinese law that all visitors register with their local police station. Hotels will do this for you. If you are staying privately, your host or landlord will assist you.
New Zealanders travelling to China for the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games are advised to monitor the Ministry’s travel advisory, and that of Australia, in the lead up to 8 August 2008.
Increased security awareness worldwide has also impacted on arrangements for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Chinese authorities will provide extensive security for the Games. Visitors to the China will need to comply with any directives by the Chinese authorities, and also any directives by the event organisers.
Security measures may include restrictions on entry points to Olympic sites, and searches of person and bags. There may be restrictions on taking some liquid containers into Olympic sites. Allow additional time to travel to the Olympic sites and pass through the various security checkpoints.
Always carry with you the address in English and Chinese of your accommodation.
Serious crime against foreigners is rare but there is petty crime especially in major cities and tourist areas. You should be vigilant in all crowded locations. Ensure passports, credit cards and money are held in a safe place at all times.
The Olympic and Paralympic Games are held every four years. It is expected that the New Zealand team will comprise about 170 athletes and about 115 officials.
The majority of Olympic events will be held in Beijing. A full list of venues can be downloaded from www.en.beijing2008.cn.
The following will not be permitted into the event sites:
New Zealanders are advised to dress and behave in an appropriate manner that respects local customs and sensitivities, while observing the Olympic spirit and the spirit of any sports event.
In addition to buses, underground/metro and monorail, taking a taxi is a common and affordable method of transportation. The cheapest price for a taxi ride is 10 yuan (less than NZ$2) and increases by 2 yuan per kilometre after the first 3 kilometres. Always ensure the meter is on and get a receipt when getting out as this will help find the taxi driver if you leave any articles behind.
A lane will be closed on all Olympic designated roads in Beijing to all but official vehicles and organised tour buses. Private vehicles will not be allowed in these lanes.
The weather in August in Beijing will be hot and humid with the likelihood of heavy showers. Wear light clothes and bring some means of protection from the rain. Wear strong footwear and be prepared for the need to walk considerable distances. Remember, all bags and packs are likely to be searched along with spot physical checks on people at various points throughout the day.
There will be adequate toilet facilities at the Olympic sites. Elsewhere public toilets are usually of the squat kind and can be very basic. Carry toilet paper and antiseptic hand wash.
There will be refreshment stands at Olympic sites, but it is recommended you carry bottled water with you. Tap water is not safe to drink. Drink only bottled water. Rubbish bins are provided and visitors are expected to use them.
Be warned: Chinese laws are not the same as New Zealand laws. Chinese law permits the detention of an individual for up to 15 days while investigations take place and this can be extended. Chinese detention facilities are not like New Zealand ones. If arrested you could be jailed or deported.
There are strictly enforced laws prohibiting demonstrations without prior approval. It is a good idea to avoid demonstrations of any kind, especially those related to human rights, anti-government and religion. In particular, China does not tolerate behaviour accepted in New Zealand, eg there are restrictions on certain religious activities, such as preaching, handing out pamphlets on religion, and associating with unapproved religious groups, including some Christian, Buddhist and Muslim organisations. The Falun Gong movement has been banned in China. Participants in Falun Gong activities or Falun Gong-related demonstrations are subject to legal action that may include detention, deportation, arrest and imprisonment.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include the death penalty. Public displays of drunkenness are not appropriate in China. Chinese authorities do not take kindly to injudicious acts by drunken individuals.
With the number of visitors expected for the Olympic Games, medical facilities are likely to be over stretched, very expensive and time consuming. Consider taking a small personal first aid kit.
New Zealanders travelling to or resident in China should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
Consular officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be positioned in Beijing, Hong Kong and at other Olympic sites as required to provide urgent on-the-ground consular assistance required by New Zealanders attending the Olympic Games.
Contact details for these officers will be provided for the period 8-24 August, and updated on the Embassy website www.nzembassy.com/china. In the first instance, any New Zealanders requiring consular assistance should contact the New Zealand Embassy in Beijing (+010 6532 2731).
In China, the nationwide 24-hour emergency services assistance number is 110. Foreigners may also contact the Police (for foreigners) in Beijing on 84015300 – available 24 hours a day.
New Zealanders travelling to the Olympics are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
New Zealanders travelling to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Page last updated: Thursday, 03-Jul-2008 15:10:31 NZST
