Belize

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the outbreak of COVID-19, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex and rapidly changing. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly. Should you decide to travel despite our advice, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand must undertake 14 days of government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand (excluding those from Antarctica, Australia and most Pacific Islands) must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result before departure. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against Covid-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

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Belize

Temporary Post Closure

Due to the increasing suspension of airlinks and unprecedented operational pressures, New Zealand has temporarily withdrawn staff from its Embassy in Bridgetown (accredited to Belize). Consular services in country are unavailable until further notice.

New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on 0800 30 10 30 (within New Zealand) or +64 99 20 20 20 (outside of New Zealand) or email cons@mfat.govt.nz

State of Emergency

In September 2018, the government of Belize declared a state of emergency for two neighbourhoods in Belize City, namely the George Street and Ghost Town areas, as a result of a significant increase in violent crime. Police were deployed to the area in an attempt to stabilize the situation.

Crime
There are incidents of violent crime in Belize, including muggings, sexual assault, armed robbery and murder. There is a risk of gang-related gun violence in southern parts of Belize City, particularly in the George Street and Kraal Road areas.

Crime also occurs at known tourist areas such San Pedro, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio Corozal, Placencia, and Mayan archaeological sites. Tourists around Caracol and the border area with Guatemala have been targeted by criminals for their personal belongings. You should avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices, cameras and jewellery, as this could make you a target for criminals.

Always travel in groups and avoid isolated areas, including unsupervised beaches, especially at night. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers due to the potential for drug spiking. We also advise against accepting drinks or food from strangers or recent acquaintances as they may contain other substances.

We advise New Zealanders travelling in Belize to exercise vigilance at all times, particularly in popular tourist destinations and public transport hubs including airports and bus stations. You should avoid travelling alone at night and only use official licensed taxis. Offer no resistance if you are the victim of a mugging or armed robbery as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Monitor the media for security updates.

Civil unrest
Demonstrations and strikes take place occasionally in Belize and may disrupt local public services and transport. While protests are generally peaceful, New Zealanders in Belize are advised to avoid all protests, demonstrations and political marches as they may turn violent with little warning. You should follow the instructions of the local authorities and exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times.

General travel advice
Belize has an ongoing border dispute with Guatemala. New Zealanders are advised to only use officialy recognised border crossings if travelling between Belize and Guatemala.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

The possession, sale and export of artefacts without a permit may carry heavy penalties.

New Zealanders in Belize should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Belize are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The New Zealand High Commission Bridgetown, Barbados is accredited to Belize

Street Address Lower Collymore Rock, Bridgetown, BB11000,Barbados Postal Address PO BOX 676, Lower Collymore Rock, Bridgetown, BB11000,Barbados Telephone +1 246 622 7800 Fax +1 246 622 7808 Email NZHCBarbados@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/barbados Hours Mon – Thur 7:45am – 4.00pm Fri 8.00am – 1pm

See our regional advice for Central/South America

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