When travelling, it’s always a good idea to plan for the worst and hope for the best. Here are some things to think about and get ready before you travel.
Before you travel, check our travel advice and make sure you understand the risks for all your destinations.
Your travel insurance provider may use this advice to decide whether to provide or pay out insurance for your travel. Many policies will not cover your travel to countries or regions we advise against visiting.
Local laws in the country you’re travelling to could be very different from the laws in New Zealand and the penalties for breaking those laws might be harsher. You may not agree with them but it’s your responsibility to understand and comply with the laws of the countries you travel to.
Some countries require or recommend you be vaccinated or take other medical precautions before you travel there. Check your destination country’s local health and vaccination advice, or ask your doctor in New Zealand for specific advice for travelling with your health conditions.
Find out more on our Health page
If you’re planning to travel outside of New Zealand, register your details with us. Having your travel and contact information means we can send you security alerts and travel advice updates about the places you’re travelling to. It is also how we communicate with New Zealanders during an international crisis.
It’s a good idea to let people know you’ll be travelling and what your plans are. If there’s an emergency, they’ll want to know where you are and how to reach you.
Are you thinking of travelling outside of New Zealand without insurance? Don’t. Even minor medical treatment can be expensive. You should get a policy that covers any activities you’ll be doing on your trip, such as scuba diving or scooter riding.
Find out more on our Travel insurance page
Make sure that your passport will be valid for at least six months after you plan to return from your travel. If you need to apply for a new passport, you can do so on the Government’s passport website.
Find out more on our Passports page
Check the visa requirements for the places you are travelling, even if you’re just transiting through the airport.
Find out more on our Visas page
Get ready to return to New Zealand by downloading the New Zealand Traveller Declaration app. Everyone travelling into New Zealand needs to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration, which collects travel, customs, immigration and biosecurity information.
Find out more on the New Zealand Traveller Declaration website.
The Government has put together a brochure with tips for travelling about things like handling your passport, and going through security.
Know where the nearest New Zealand Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate is, in case you need to come to us for help with something.
It’s a good idea to take copies of important documents, like your passport, visas, prescriptions, and insurance policy.
If there’s an emergency while you’re away, you may need to access funds to get home or get help. Think about how you will get emergency funds before you leave New Zealand.
If you need to shelter in a safe place, you will need to have some supplies to get through a few days.
Here are some things to prepare:
You should also keep phones and laptops charged in case the power goes out.
The New Zealand Get Ready website has other tips for preparing for an emergency.
