United Kingdom

Terrorism
There is a heightened threat of terrorism across Europe, including in the United Kingdom.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to take account of the terrorism threat level assigned by the United Kingdom Security Service [2] when making travel decisions. There is also an enduring threat of Northern Ireland-related terrorism.

The UK has a long history of terrorist attacks which have caused multiple deaths and injuries.

On 14 November 2021, there was an explosion outside a hospital in Liverpool, killing one person.

On 29 November 2019, a stabbing attack took place near London Bridge killing two people and injuring three others.

On 14 August 2018, a vehicle drove into the barriers outside the Houses of Parliament in London, injuring two people.

On 15 September 2017, there was an explosion at Parsons Green Underground Tube Station in London, causing a number of injuries.

On 3 June 2017, a terror attack took place on London Bridge and nearby Borough Market killing seven people and injuring a number of others.

On 22 May 2017, an attack at a music concert held at the Manchester Arena killed 22 people with over 100 others injured.

On 22 March 2017, an attacker drove a vehicle through pedestrians before stabbing a police officer near the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London, also killing three people and injuring a number of others.

Terrorist groups, individuals returning to the United Kingdom and Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks in the United Kingdom and across Europe. There is also a threat from domestic-based violent extremists. Groups adhering to various violent extremist ideologies have conducted attacks in the past, some have been indiscriminate; targeting places of worship, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs, major events and tourist areas.

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are advised to be vigilant, particularly in public places. Follow any instructions issued by local authorities and stay informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. United Kingdom security personnel maintain an increased presence in public places as a precautionary measure.

Northern Ireland
Although the political situation in Northern Ireland has improved since the 1998 peace agreement, incidents of violence continue to occur. Attacks primarily target Northern Ireland security forces and law enforcement, but banks and other commercial entities have also been targeted in the past.

From late March 2021, there have been a number of incidents including street violence, rioting, and attacks on police that have occurred in west and south Belfast, Londonderry and areas of County Antrim.

The annual summer marching parades which occur during the period April to August, and particularly on and around 12 July, have the potential to turn violent. We recommend you avoid them.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag and mobile phone snatching, pickpocketing and mugging is common, especially in urban centers, tourist locations and on public transport. Thieves sometimes impersonate undercover police officers. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard their personal belongings. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles are known to occur, particularly in tourist areas and roadside rest areas.  Knife-related crime and drink and drug-spiking [3] is prevalent across the United Kingdom and can lead to sexual assault. The Met Police [4] has advice on personal safety.

Only use licensed taxi or transport services. There have been reports of travellers being sexually assaulted and mugged in unlicensed taxis and minicabs. Transport for London maintains a website [5] with additional information on how to travel safer within London.

Beware of ATM and credit card fraud. Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location, and only use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks. When using ATMs and credit cards, keep your card in sight, conceal your PIN and check your bank statements.  Visit Action Fraud [6] for more information about fraud and cybercrime in the United Kingdom.

Civil Unrest
We recommend you avoid all protests and demonstrations as civil disorder can quickly escalate and result in property damage and violence. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.  Keep aware of your surroundings and monitor media to keep up to date with any developments.  Expect an increased security force presence in areas where demonstrations are taking place.  Follow the instructions of local authorities.

General Travel Advice
Immigration regulations are strictly enforced in the United Kingdom. For more information, see the official UK Visa and Immigration [7] website.

New Zealanders travelling or living in the United Kingdom should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

The devolved nations of Scotland [8], Wales [9] and Northern Ireland [10] provide their own advice and guidance.  Refer to local authorities for the latest information. 

New Zealanders in the United Kingdom are encouraged to register their details [11] with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• Travel to Europe [12]
• For current health alerts [13]