New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has upgraded its travel advisory from level 1 to level 2 on the four-level system, the most severe advisory to non-mandatory travel before it starts warning travellers to “reconsider travel.”
The ministry updated its website this week to reflect the “state of emergency” in local areas, warning Kiwis to “exercise increased caution” and research destinations thoroughly before travelling.
“Residents in the affected areas in many states have been issued a ‘leave immediately’ or ‘prepare to leave’ order. Severe bushfires are likely to continue to occur throughout Australia during the summer period. If you’re in or near an affected area, stay safe and follow the advice of local authorities,” the ministry said on its website.
The ministry also advised Kiwi travellers to monitor the media to keep up to date with local developments, adding that the air quality in some areas is poor due to smoke.
“Any New Zealanders requiring consular assistance should contact the nearest New Zealand Embassy or Consulate General,” the ministry said. “We encourage all New Zealanders living and travelling offshore to register on SafeTravel.”
Meanwhile, Phillipa Harrison, managing director of Tourism Australia, commented on the decision to suspend promotion for affected areas.
“While bushfires continue to impact parts of Australia, many areas are unaffected and most tourism businesses are still open,” Harrison said, as reported by NZ Herald. “It is more important than ever that we rally around our communities and the tourism sector who may have been impacted. We would encourage all travellers coming to Australia to seek the most up to date information prior to departure, and remain informed about changing conditions while on the ground.”
