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India: Severe Air Pollution

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:46 NZDT

Major cities in India have recently been experiencing severe levels of air pollution. Some of the most common health effects of air pollution include irritation of eyes, throat and lungs. For people with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, breathing in air pollution can make these conditions worse. New Zealanders in areas affected by the air pollution are advised to monitor pollution readings, such as those p...read more

Drug Crime Overseas: Don't Risk It

Reviewed: 17 December 2019, 11:44 NZDT

Every year New Zealanders put themselves at risk of arrest or detention for drug-related offences overseas. Remember that when you are overseas you are subject to that country's laws and penalties - no matter how harsh they may appear by New Zealand standards. In many countries, penalties for drug-related offences are severe. Possession, use or trafficking of even very small quantities of drugs can lead to lengthy imprisonment thousands of miles...read more

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

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