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 the Netherlands due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

The Netherlands

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in the Netherlands and across Europe. Individuals and groups adhering to various ideologies have conducted attacks in the past. 

The Dutch National Coordinator for Security and Counter-terrorism (NCTV) maintains a national terrorism threat level for the Netherlands.  .

New Zealanders in the Netherlands are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the Dutch authorities and exercising a high degree of vigilance in public places, particularly at large public gatherings, government buildings, tourist sites and transport hubs (such as airports and railway stations).

New Zealanders in the Netherlands are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the Dutch authorities and exercising a high degree of vigilance in public places, particularly at large public gatherings, government buildings, tourist sites and transport hubs (such as airports and railway stations).

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations and protests occur from time to time in the Netherlands but they generally remain peaceful. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations and protests as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent.  They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Crime
Whilst the crime rate in the Netherlands is low, petty crime (such as pickpocketing and bag snatching) occurs in larger cities, particularly in Amsterdam, and tourists are often targeted. Thieves often work in pairs, while one distracts you, the other will steal your unguarded items. Be aware and always keep an eye on your personal belongings. Be particularly alert of your surroundings, for example when using ATM’s, and aware of your belongings around train, tram and metro stations. 

There have also been reports of travellers being approached by individuals posing as plain-clothed police officers asking to check your money or credit cards to look for counterfeits, with the intention of stealing from you. If approached by plain-clothed policers asking to check your money or credit cards, offer to go to the nearest police station in order to verify their identity.

Drink spiking can occur. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

Drugs
Despite popular perception that the Netherlands allows ‘soft’ drugs, drugs are actually controlled substances, including marijuana. Marijuana purchase is only permitted in designated shops and buyers must be residents of the Netherlands. Despite popularity, the sale of psychoactive mushrooms is strictly illegal. You may face criminal penalties, including fines and jail time, if you violate the Netherland’s drug laws. 

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in the Netherlands should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

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

Travel tips

• Travel to Europe
• Abolition of border controls in Europe
• For current health alerts

---

The New Zealand Embassy The Hague, The Netherlands

Street Address Eisenhowerlaan 77N, 2517 KK The Hague The Netherlands Telephone +31 70 346 9324 Fax +31 70 363 2983 Email hague.info@mfat.govt.nz Web Site www.facebook.com/NZthehague/ Hours Mon - Fri 0900 - 1230 hrs, 1330 - 1700 hrs Note http://www.mfat.govt.nz/netherlands

See our regional advice for Europe