Travel Advisory: Fiji

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

On Thursday 2 November elements of the military staged a mutiny and attempted to oust the Commander of the Fiji Military Forces (FMF).

A major gun battle ensued resulting in the capture of a number of the mutineers and the deaths of five mutineers and four loyal members of the FMF.

A number of mutineers escaped. Some have since been captured but a number are still at large.

There is currently a curfew in the Suva area. New Zealanders are warned against all travel to the southeastern part of Viti Levu.

The situation on the western side of Viti Levu and elsewhere in Fiji is currently quiet but in the light of this renewed violence the situation throughout the country is unstable and unpredictable.

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 any mutineers remain at large and while court proceedings against George Speight and his supporters are in process.

New Zealanders are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Fiji. Those who go should maintain a sensible degree of caution and personal security awareness. Visitors should monitor the local media for current information. Curfew hours should be observed.

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

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.

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