Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
als makes this a very safe region to get off the beaten track and out into the beautiful coun-
tryside.
Before You Go
MEDICATIONS
Bring medications in their original, clearly labelled containers. A signed and dated letter from
your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names,
is also a good idea. If carrying syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician's letter docu-
menting their medical necessity.
VACCINATIONS
NZ has no vaccination requirements for any traveller, but the World Health Organization re-
commends that all travellers be covered for diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella,
chickenpox and polio, as well as hepatitis B, regardless of their destination. Ask your doctor
for an International Certificate of Vaccination (or 'the yellow booklet'), which will list all the
vaccinations you've received.
In New Zealand
Health insurance is essential for all travellers. While health care in NZ is of a high quality and
not overly expensive by international standards, considerable costs can be built up and re-
patriation can be extremely expensive.
NZ does not have a government-funded system of public hospitals. But all travellers are
covered for medical care resulting from accidents that occur while in NZ (eg motor-vehicle
accidents, adventure-activity accidents) by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC;
www.acc.co.nz
). Costs incurred due to treatment of a medical illness that occurs while in NZ
will only be covered by travel insurance. For more details, see
www.moh.govt.nz.
vice throughout NZ.
Insurance
A watertight travel-insurance policy covering theft, loss and medical problems is essential.
Some policies specifically exclude designated 'dangerous activities' such as scuba diving,
parasailing, bungy jumping, white-water rafting, motorcycling, skiing and even tramping. If
you plan on doing any of these things (a distinct possibility in NZ), make sure the policy you
choose covers you fully.
