New Zealand remains a safe a place to visit following the Kaikoura quakes of November 14. Most parts of the country, including the North Island and most of the South Island, are unaffected for travellers.
The most affected area is Kaikoura, a small community approximately 2 ½ hours’ drive north of Christchurch in the South Island. The town is currently inaccessible by road. Aftershocks are continuing to affect the area and can be felt as far afield as Wellington and Christchurch. However these will reduce over time.
The major international airports of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown are all open and welcoming visitors as are regional airports.
Travellers flying into Christchurch can travel south and west as normal to areas such as Dunedin, Queenstown and the West Coast. Those wanting to travel north from Christchurch can take alternative routes to Nelson and Picton or fly to those towns.
For the most up to date information, visitors should listen to the radio or keep an eye on news websites such as www.stuff.co.nz; www.nzherald.co.nz and official social media channels.
In relation to the earthquakes of November 14, please find up-to-date information from Civil Defence in the region here https://www.facebook.com/CanterburyEM/
For up-to-date Government information following an emergency, visit
International visitors seeking additional assistance should contact their Embassy
A full Diplomatic and Consular list can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.
Visitors who have concerns regarding future or current travel arrangements, should contact their tour, accommodation or transport provider.
For the latest information on road closures and slips check New Zealand Transport Agency
Visitors can contact a local i-SITE information centre for support with travel arrangements: New Zealand Visitor Information Network – i-SITE
For airport information please contact the airports directly. (Listed phone numbers are from within New Zealand)
For specific flight information, please contact your airline. (Listed phone numbers are from within New Zealand)
Ferry Services
Coach Services
Rail Services
