Bali airport 'security risk'

A Government advisory against all non-essential travel to Indonesia remains in place following revelations yesterday that Bali's main airport has failed to meet international security standards.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said there was already a warning in place against all non-essential travel to Indonesia.

"We can't put it more strongly than that, really."

The United States Transportation Security Administration has declared that Denpasar Airport does not comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards on aviation security.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has upgraded its website travel warnings for travellers.

Australian airlines servicing Denpasar already have extra security measures in place to improve safety for their passengers.

"Qantas and Australian Airlines services continue to operate normally out of Bali and have additional security measures in place to meet ICAO security standards," the department said.

The New Zealand ministry's latest advice, issued on December 14, said there was still "a high threat from terrorism" in Indonesia.

Recently an extremist website posted information describing possible terrorist tactics, including attacks against foreigners on roads, and at entertainment venues, shopping centres, and hotels.

New Zealanders resident in or travelling to Indonesia should register with the New Zealand Embassy, monitor media reports and stay in touch with family and friends, the ministry said.

- NZPA