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Dengue Fever

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:41 NZDT

People travelling to the Pacific should take extra steps to avoid mosquito bites following an outbreak of dengue fever. Outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses are common in the tropical and sub-tropical climates in most Pacific Islands, in North Queensland (Australia), Asia (including India), Africa and Central/South America. Dengue fever is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito and cannot be spread directly from person to person. ...read more

Travel Insurance

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:39 NZDT

If you’re heading overseas, don’t forget to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy should cover any activities you plan to undertake (from scuba diving to scooter riding), personal liability, medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Even minor medical treatment can be very expensive overseas. If you suffer an injury overseas and return to New Zealand, ACC may be able to help...read more

Travelling with an Electronic Cigarette

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:37 NZDT

Don’t want your holiday to go up in smoke? Travelling with an electronic cigarette may land you in prison or with a fine. Some countries consider electronic cigarettes and the liquid used in them as prohibited products, which may have some serious consequences for you when you get to the border or are stopped by the authorities in-country. Countries with the ban could impose a hefty fine and/or a prison sentence if it is deemed you attempted to...read more

Riding Motorbikes and Scooters Overseas

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:36 NZDT

Motorbikes and scooters are a great way to get around when you’re overseas, however accidents do happen and New Zealanders should ensure they have adequate travel insurance for all eventualities. If you intend hiring cars, motorbikes, jet skis or any other motorised vehicle while overseas, you should comply with local licensing laws. Talk to your travel insurer to check your insurance policy covers such activity and seek advice on a...read more

Need a visa for travelling overseas?

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:35 NZDT

New Zealanders travelling overseas may require a visa in order to enter certain countries. Please check with your travel agent or with the Embassy or High Commission of the countries you intend to visit/transit to find out their visa requirements as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is unable to advise on the visa requirements of other countries. You should research visa requirements well in advance of your departure.&nb...read more

Indonesia: Methanol Poisoning

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 10:47 NZDT

Cases of severe illness (including permanent blindness) and death have been reported in Indonesia following consumption of alcohol drinks mixed with toxic chemicals, particularly methanol. These cases of poisoning were reported to have been as a result of the consumption of local spirits such as Arak (a rice-based spirit), and spirit-based drinks/cocktails, mixed with or contaminated by toxic chemicals such as methanol. Travellers to Bali, L...read more

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