Berlin Christmas markets crash: Advice for Kiwis

The New Zealand Government this morning issued a travel advisory to Kiwis in Berlin in the wake of today's Christmas market attack.

A truck has ploughed into a crowded Christmas market in Berlin, killing nine people and injuring up to 50 others.

An Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson said the New Zealand Embassy in Berlin was liaising with the local authorities to see whether any New Zealanders had been caught up in the incident.

There were currently 360 New Zealanders registered on SafeTravel as being in Germany.

MFAT said people in Berlin should stay away from the affected area and monitor media and other local information sources to keep up to date with developments.

With the situation unfolding Kiwis were told to follow instructions of local authorities at all times, including any restrictions on movement.

Those in Berlin were also asked to contact family members in New Zealand to advise them they were safe.

Are you a Kiwi in #Germany? Read #SafeTravel advice about security incident in #Berlin: https://t.co/dTfqEfo0HF

— New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (@MFATNZ) December 19, 2016

New Zealanders who needed consular assistance were advised to contact the New Zealand Embassy in Berlin.

The ministry provided phone numbers for those in New Zealand with concerns about family members in Germany.

If they could not make direct contact and there were ongoing concerns they were asked to call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 04 439 8000 or 00 64 4 439 8000 if phoning from outside New Zealand.