New Zealand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The land is gorgeous, the culture has a rich history, and there are plenty of activities throughout the country. Every year, millions of travelers flock to New Zealand to experience these things firsthand.
In general, New Zealand is a safe place for most travelers. However, anywhere you go in the world, there are some risk factors, especially for tourists who spend more time focusing on the sights than their personal safety. Let’s discuss some concerns you should have when traveling to New Zealand.
General Safety Considerations
As you explore this beautiful country, it is essential to prioritize your security. Travelers tend to be distracted by what they are experiencing, which makes them vulnerable to certain risks. Here are a few general safety considerations to remember when you head to New Zealand.
Petty Theft and Scams
When you visit major cities and popular tourist hubs, the risk of petty theft and scams increases. Some locals know that travelers make easier targets for pickpocketing and bag snatching. Also, keep in mind that local authorities can do little about these petty crimes in public places because it is difficult to catch the perpetrators. Protect yourself by securing personal possessions in an anti-theft bag or using a money belt.
Travelers can also be victims of common scams. Taxi scams, ATM scams, and credit card skimming happen frequently in busy areas like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Money exchange scams can even occur when you trade your currency for the New Zealand dollar. Watch out for these common tourist traps to avoid financial difficulties or personal safety concerns.
Violent Crime
Violent crime rates are low throughout New Zealand. However, it can still happen, especially if you put yourself in a dangerous situation. You should use the same precautions that you would at home, such as avoiding hazardous areas. Hamilton City and Rotorua District are two areas in which to exercise extra caution.
Transportation Safety
Getting around the country is a significant part of traveling, so you need a transportation method. If you choose to rent a vehicle, then you must understand the essential road safety rules, such as driving on the left-hand side and always wearing a seat belt. You may need a New Zealand driver licence to operate a vehicle legally. If you break any of these laws, you could face heavy fines.
If you use public transport or ridesharing services, you should exercise additional precautions to ensure your protection. Verify that the vehicle you are entering is legitimately connected to a professional service. Choose drivers who have solid track records with clients. Research the best ways to travel in New Zealand before you arrive so you have a strong plan.
Solo Female Travelers
Being a woman means facing additional dangers, especially if you are traveling alone. Some unsavory sorts may see you as a more vulnerable victim.
To be safe as a woman traveling solo in New Zealand, consider connecting with other female travelers, avoiding dangerous areas, protecting your beverages from drink spiking, and keeping your cell phone on you at all times. It might also provide additional assurance to maintain a personal locator beacon with you.
Natural Hazards and Risks
New Zealand boasts a natural beauty that few other countries can match. Between the mountain areas, sweeping landscapes, diverse wildlife, and lengthy coastlines, there is plenty to explore and admire. However, the natural environment also presents some risks to travelers unfamiliar with the dangers. Here are a few hazards to watch for in New Zealand.
Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity
New Zealand is known for its seismic activity, so take protective measures on your trip. There are numerous active volcanoes in the area, and although most are unlikely to erupt, some unpredictable outcomes could occur. Earthquakes are common due to New Zealand’s proximity to tectonic plate borders. If you ever feel an earthquake, make sure you hide under a strong piece of furniture or door frame for protection.
If a nearby volcano erupts, stay indoors to avoid the hazardous conditions of volcanic ash and follow evacuation orders if necessary. Monitor volcanic alert levels if you plan to visit an area with an active volcano.
Extreme Weather Events
Other weather events can also present dangers in New Zealand. Heavy rains are common and can cause unanticipated floods. If you travel to this country in the winter, snow could make the roads dangerous. Lightning storms are also best avoided during your trip, so stay inside if there are incoming storms or strong winds. Often, these natural disasters can lead to road closures.
To stay informed about extreme weather conditions, you can look up services on your phone that send alerts and track regional weather forecasts. For example, you’ll be alerted immediately if there is a tsunami warning or flood watch in your area.
Outdoor Activities and Adventure Sports
Many adventurers head to New Zealand to participate in outdoor activities and sports. However, if these recreational activities are new experiences or you ignore local advice and safety precautions from tour operators, you can easily get hurt. Whether hiking through the wilderness, engaging in water sports, bungee jumping, or skydiving, ensure you understand the risks and are careful during the activity.
You should also research reputable businesses and guides to ensure you are working with professionals rather than amateurs. Otherwise, you may face a greater risk of injuries.
Sun Safety
All New Zealanders know it can get pretty hot on the North and South Island. Sometimes, tourists are unprepared for the heat of the sun. Since you will spend a lot of time outside exploring the country, you should prepare for that amount of sun exposure. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF for maximum protection from intense UV radiation.
Sunglasses are also recommended for sunny days to avoid damaging your vision from excessive glare. Drink plenty of water while sightseeing to replenish your body’s fluids and stay hydrated.
Health and Medical Considerations
Physical health is another critical factor in staying safe while traveling. Getting the necessary vaccinations before traveling, taking health precautions when eating and drinking, researching local healthcare services, and accounting for your health conditions can improve your experience.
Here are a few health considerations before you get to New Zealand.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Some vaccinations are required to travel to New Zealand, while others are recommended. For example, measles, TDAP, polio, and shingles are required vaccinations. It might also be wise to consider a Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever, or COVID-19 vaccine as well. If you get sick during your trip, you should self-isolate and see a medical professional as soon as possible.
For food and water safety, make sure you know where you are getting your food and drinks. Streetside vendors may not have the best precautions in place for safe foods. Cook all foods to the appropriate temperatures and only drink filtered or bottled water.
Access to Healthcare
You never know what can happen when you are in another country. You could get injured or sick in a way that is dangerous to your long-term health. Before visiting an area, research what local medical services are nearby in case of an emergency. There are both private and public healthcare options in New Zealand. Researching your options beforehand is essential, especially if you plan to visit a remote area.
Travel insurance covers some financial risks during your trip, so you should buy travel insurance for your vacation ahead of time.
Preexisting Medical Conditions
Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions that could affect your travel experience? If so, you must plan for that. Will you need access to medications at various times? Do you have an emergency number so medical professionals can call a loved one in case of a flare-up? These are questions to answer before you leave for New Zealand.
Cultural Considerations and Social Norms
New Zealand has a very distinct culture, meaning societal norms may differ from your home country. When you visit another place, it is essential to respect the culture and traditions of the local people. Here is some travel advice for cultural considerations.
Respect for Māori Culture and Traditions
Maori culture is the primary consideration when interacting with many New Zealanders. If you plan to participate in cultural experiences, do so with respect. Specifically, make sure you respect the individual’s head, personal space, greeting, and eating traditions.
For example, many Maori people say a blessing before eating their food. If you research the culture beforehand and know how to respect it, experiencing it firsthand can be unforgettable.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
New Zealand is ranked as one of the most welcoming countries for LGBTQ+ travelers. The New Zealand government has taken significant steps to uphold the rights of LGBTQ+ citizens, and those rights also extend to travelers.
Auckland and Wellington are particularly welcoming to these individuals, so you will hardly ever experience any discrimination.
Responsible Tourism
Traveling to other locales does not give you the legal right to mistreat the people or the land. When traveling around the country to explore landscapes, cities, peoples, wildlife, and cultures, be responsible and minimize your environmental impact. Otherwise, you can ruin the experience for local citizens and other travelers.
To be a responsible tourist, you can also support local communities and businesses with your money.
Specific Safety Tips for Different Regions
Depending on which region of New Zealand you are visiting, you will need more detailed information. Here are some tips for staying safe on both islands.
North Island
Auckland is the largest city in the country, so you will be dealing with a dense population. Research which city areas are safest and ensure you leave valuables behind when exploring the more touristy areas.
If you head to Rotorua, there is a lot of geothermal activity and several active volcanoes, so know how to be safe in this area. Wellington is known for having earthquakes regularly, so understand what steps to take if you feel the ground shake.
South Island
Christchurch is also prone to earthquakes, and knowing how to stay safe and recover in the aftermath of a quake could prevent serious injuries. If you visit the city of Queenstown, there are tons of activities to do, so make sure you use reputable businesses to engage in safe adventures.
When you seek out remote wilderness in Fiordland, understand basic hiking practices and how to interact with wildlife to reduce risks.
Staying Safe in New Zealand: Essential Tips
This may sound like a lot of security information, but it can help you have a positive travel experience in New Zealand. Research all the spots you will visit and keep up-to-date information about local news and travel advisories.
Secure your belongings in crowds and be extra cautious in rural areas. Use common sense to avoid dangerous situations. Leave the area immediately if something feels off about your location or surroundings. If you need the contact details of local authorities or emergency services, you can call 111 on your mobile phone.
Summary
Having personal safety barriers is essential when you are in an unfamiliar environment. Whether you are visiting remote areas, observing roaming animals, heading to a bar, swimming along New Zealand’s coastline, or driving a rental car.