Keeping yourself safe

• If possible, go places with someone you know and trust
• Be aware of your surroundings when walking and sightseeing
• Late at night, stay in places that are well lit and with other people. Don’t take short cuts through parks or alleyways. Take a taxi or get a ride with someone you know
• Drugs and more than moderate amounts of alcohol can lower your awareness and increase your vulnerability
• In a bar, avoid accepting drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended
• If using an ATM withdraw small amounts - preferably during the day - and shield your pin.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery
• Keep valuable items close to your body
• The police recommend you don’t accept rides from people you don’t know
• While still relatively safe in New Zealand, we recommend you don’t hitchhike
• Lock your accommodation (including campervans) and secure windows at night
• Carry a mobile phone and don’t hesitate to dial New Zealand’s emergency phone number if you feel unsafe or threatened - dial 111
• Carry a basic first-aid kit for use in emergencies

Keeping your possessions safe

• Always lock your accommodation or vehicle and keep windows secure when unattended, and at night
• Never leave valuables in parked vehicles
• Don’t leave maps, luggage or visitor brochures visible in your vehicle
• Store valuables securely, ideally in a safe at your accommodation
• Try and park campervans in designated areas
• Never leave bags, backpacks, wallets or cameras unattended in any public place, especially airports, ferry terminals or railway stations
• If any of your possessions are stolen or valuable items misplaced, advise local police as soon as possible.
• Keep copies of your important documents, e.g. passport and credit cards, and keep them separate from the originals. Keep a record of the description and serial number of valuable items, e.g. digital cameras

Getting help

• The emergency telephone number in New Zealand is 111. It is a free phone call. If you have an emergency and need a quick response from the Police, the Fire Service, Ambulance or Search and Rescue, dial 111
• Don’t hesitate to contact the police if you feel unsafe or threatened. And do report any theft and crime to the police immediately

Source: Tourism New Zealand