People with disabilities

People with disabilities might need to do some extra planning when travelling. Here’s some advice to help you have a smooth trip.

Register your travel

Register your plans and contact details so we can send you travel updates about the places you're travelling to.

Do your research

Before you travel anywhere, you should do some research to understand the local conditions, including how accessible your destination is and whether there is a risk of discrimination.

Read our travel advice for specific information about your destination, and know where to find consular assistance if you get into trouble. We also have specific advice to help you look after your health while you travel.

Read our travel advice or find an embassy

Read our Health page

Accessibility

If you have a disability, you know that lots of buildings and vehicles weren’t made to be accessible for everyone. You might want to ask some questions before you travel about how to manage your needs.

You could contact your:

  • Travel agent
  • Airline and other transport operators
  • Hotel
  • Cruise company
  • Tour operator.

Things to ask about:

  • Accessibility at the airport, on the aircraft, and getting on and off the plane.
  • Whether equipment can be stored within reach, or checked on the plane.
  • Accessibility of transport at your destination.
  • Accessibility of your hotel or resort, both in common areas and your room.
  • The condition of things like roads and footpaths at your destination.
  • The availability of accessible toilets at your destination.
  • What assistance you can get from cabin crew and cruise, hotel, and airline staff.
  • What you’ll do if there is an emergency while you’re away.

There’s more advice in the links at the bottom of the page

Service animals

Different countries have different rules for travelling with animals. If you are planning to travel with a service animal, make sure that you check the entry requirements for every country you’re travelling to.

The New Zealand embassy in the country you’re travelling to can help with information about requirements.

Find an embassy

Booking

It’s a good idea to book well in advance so there’s lots of time to make arrangements for your travel.

When you book your travel, let the service provider know about your disability and if possible, be specific about how they can help you. Also, let them know if you plan to travel with any assistive equipment or service animals.

You might want to check in with service providers a few days before you leave to make sure they have a record of your needs.

If you’re having a hard time finding service providers that can accommodate you, you might want to find a specialist travel agent. Try consulting disability networks for advice or recommendations.

Travel insurance

Don’t travel without travel insurance. If you are sick or injured while travelling and you don’t have insurance, you will have to pay for your medical care. Buy travel insurance, and make sure you disclose your disability, and any pre-existing conditions you have.

Find out more on our travel insurance page.

Register your travel

Before you leave New Zealand, register your details with us. Having your travel and contact information means we can send 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.

Register your travel