Travel advisory: Fiji

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

New Zealanders visiting Fiji should maintain a sensible degree of caution and personal security awareness. Visitors should monitor the local media for current information.

There is a continuiing curfew in the Suva area covering Korovou, Nausori, Suva and Lami as far as Togalevu following the mutiny and an attempt to oust the Commander of the Fiji Military Forces (FMF). Curfew hours should be observed.

New Zealanders are advised against non-essential travel to the areas covered by the curfew and should take advice from the local authorities before visiting inland areas of Viti Levu.

The situation on the western side of Viti Levu and elsewhere in Fiji is currently quiet but the situation throughout the country continues to be unpredictable and unstable.

A state of emergency remains in force and further violent incidents and outbreaks of civil unrest remain possible. This situation is likely to continue while court proceedings against George Speight and his supporters are in process. A Fiji High Court ruling on 15 November that the 1997 Constitution remains extant also has the potential to lead to unrest.

Travellers are also advised that there has been an outbreak of leptospirosis in Macuata Province of Vanua Levu, which has so far resulted in the deaths of more than 40 people. Visitors to this area should avoid all open waterways and drink only bottled water.

Travellers should be aware that it may not be possible to get comprehensive travel insurance for Fiji.

New Zealanders visiting Fiji are advised to register with the High Commission in Suva.

Tel 00 679 311 422; Fax 00 679 300 842

E-mail: nzhc@is.com.fj

Details required are: full name, New Zealand passport number and contact details whilst in Fiji.

Please note: While every care has been taken in preparing these travel advisories, neither the New Zealand Government nor its agents and employees can accept liability for any loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.

For further enquiries contact:

Consular Division

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Stafford House 38-42

The Terrace, Wellington

Tel 64-4 494-8500; Fax 494-8506

E-mail: cons@mft.govt.nz