New Zealand : Safety by City
New Zealand, a stunning island nation in the South Pacific, sits about 2,000 kilometers (nearly 1200 miles) southeast of Australia.
Made up of two main islands, the North Island and South Island, plus hundreds of smaller ones, it’s known for its dramatic landscapes, from volcanic plateaus to fjords and pristine beaches.
The country was first settled by the Māori around the 13th century, with European explorers arriving in the 17th century.
It became a British colony in 1840 and gained full independence over time, though it remains part of the Commonwealth.
Tourism in New Zealand continues to grow, thanks to its reputation for adventure sports, breathtaking nature, and rich cultural heritage.
In 2024, visitor numbers saw a strong rebound, with 3.3 million visitors arriving to explore everything from geothermal parks to world-class ski resorts.
The country’s diverse climate means you can surf and ski on the same day, making it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Plus, the variety helps everyone in your group find something to do.
The North Island, home to Auckland and Wellington, offers a mix of urban culture, Māori heritage, and geothermal wonders.
It’s known for its rolling green hills, active volcanoes, and world-famous film locations.
In contrast, the South Island is wilder, with the towering Southern Alps, glaciers, fjords, and some of the world’s best hiking trails.
Together, New Zealand’s islands offer a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making them one of the most rewarding destinations for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
One thing to keep in mind if you’re hoping to visit New Zealand from Australia.
While the two tend to go hand in hand in references, you should know the flight from Sydney to New Zealand is at least three hours.
Warnings & Dangers in New Zealand
OVERALL RISK: LOW
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. The biggest concerns are unpredictable weather, outdoor safety in remote areas, and minor theft in tourist spots. Stay prepared for nature, but crime isn’t a major worry.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
This is a low-risk concern, but driving here can be tricky. Roads are winding, weather conditions change fast, and driving is on the left. Public transport is decent in cities but limited in rural areas. Taxis are expensive, but rideshares like Uber and Ola offer cheaper options.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
This is a low-risk issue. Pickpocketing is rare, even in cities like Auckland and Wellington. Still, in busy areas like airports and tourist attractions, it’s smart to keep an eye on your belongings. Theft from parked cars can happen, so don’t leave valuables visible inside rental vehicles.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium-risk area due to earthquakes, volcanic activity, and sudden weather changes. Earthquakes are common, and some areas have active volcanoes. If hiking or exploring remote areas, check forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Violent crime is very rare, even at night. However, in some city areas, like parts of Auckland’s CBD late at night, intoxicated individuals or occasional petty crime can be a minor concern. Use basic precautions, but muggings are not a common issue.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
While New Zealand has had isolated incidents, such as the 2019 Christchurch attack, overall, the country remains very safe. Authorities have strong security measures in place, and terrorism threats are minimal compared to many other countries. You can check the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet's Counter-Terrorism website to see what the current risk level is. As of early 2025, it's LOW.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
The risk is low, but you should know the latest reports from the government advisories. Tourists should be cautious of overpriced tour operators, rental car deposit issues, and occasional online booking scams. Always use reputable companies and check reviews before making reservations.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
This is a low-risk destination for women. Street harassment is rare, and it’s generally safe to walk alone, even at night. In remote hiking areas, always let someone know your plans. While nightlife is mostly safe, drink spiking has been reported, so stay aware in bars.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
New Zealand’s tap water is safe to drink nationwide. In rural areas, water is often sourced from natural springs, and in some cases, you might prefer to boil or filter it. Otherwise, the water quality is excellent, and bottled water isn’t necessary.
Safest Places to Visit in New Zealand
New Zealand’s official tourism website is newzealand.com, which is easy enough to remember.
North Island
Auckland
As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland’s urban vibe includes numerous cultural, artistic, and dining attractions.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the Sky Tower, explore the Hauraki Gulf’s islands, or indulge in the city’s diverse food scene.
Northland
Known as the “winterless North,” Northland is rich in Māori culture and history.
Travelers can paddle a waka (Māori canoe) in the waters where Polynesian explorer Kupe first landed, explore the Bay of Islands, or visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Coromandel Peninsula
This region is famed for its stunning coastlines, forests, and seaside villages.
Visitors can relax on white sandy beaches, hike through native forests, or enjoy the local arts scene.
Bay of Plenty
Offering beautiful beaches and a sunny climate, the Bay of Plenty is perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Activities include exploring coastal towns, visiting local cafés and shops, and experiencing Māori cultural sites.
Eastland
Known for its relaxed coastal lifestyle, Eastland is popular with surfers and those seeking authentic Māori cultural experiences.
The region offers stunning beaches and historic sites while still sharing a slice of traditional Māori life.
Hawke’s Bay
Hawke’s Bay offers a blend of cultural and culinary delights.
Wine lovers won’t want to miss this spot.
Visitors can tour vineyards, explore the art deco city of Napier, or enjoy local gourmet food.
Rotorua
Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity and Māori culture in the heart of the North Island.
Experience geysers, hot springs, and traditional Māori performances.
Wellington
As the capital city, Wellington is the country’s creative hub.
Indulge in fine wine, exquisite cuisine, and coffee culture at excellent eateries.
Tap your inner artist at the local galleries and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
South Island
Marlborough
This region is celebrated for its vineyards and scenic waterways.
Visitors can enjoy wine-tasting tours, explore the Marlborough Sounds, or indulge in gourmet local cuisine.
Nelson Tasman
Known for its vibrant arts scene and access to Abel Tasman National Park, this region offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and artisan markets.
West Coast
The West Coast is ideal for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.
Activities include exploring glaciers, visiting historic mining towns, and enjoying coastal walks.
Canterbury
Home to the city of Christchurch, Canterbury features rolling green pastures, the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, and silvery beaches.
Visitors can experience world-class wildlife encounters, explore lush vineyards, and visit pristine glacial lakes.
Fiordland
Fiordland offers breathtaking fjords, waterfalls, and rainforests.
Visitors can cruise through Milford Sound, hike the renowned tracks, or enjoy scenic flights over the region.
Otago
Hosting a wide range of well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings as well as spectacular rocky coasts, coastal Otago is perfect for those who appreciate historic architecture and rugged landscapes.
The region also offers wildlife sightings, including penguin and albatross colonies.
Southland
At the bottom of New Zealand, Southland is home to many rare native species, making it perfect for nature walks.
Visitors can explore Rakiura Stewart Island, enjoy fishing, or experience the region’s rich history.
Places to Avoid in New Zealand
While crime isn’t a major concern in New Zealand, it’s important to visit the closest visitor center to ask about current trends.
There are about a dozen of these centers throughout the country.
The real risks and potential places to avoid are based on nature.
For example, the people who went on a tour of the Whakaari volcano in 2019 knew there was a slight risk of eruption.
However, the eruption ended up costing 22 lives, with the remaining 27 people facing varying degrees of injuries and severe burns.
The United States government advises everyone to avoid Whakaari/White Island because of the ongoing risk.
I watched the Netflix documentary The Volcano: Rescue from Whakaari, and it was a powerful and terrifying telling directly from survivors.
If you’re planning to visit the Great Walks of New Zealand, don’t plan to wing it when you get there.
Tours book up months in advance.
For Fiordland and the West Coast, summer storms (December–February) can cause landslides or flooding that leaves trails impassable.
Also, if you’re looking for information about the Cook Islands, Tokelau, or Niue, you should know that while they are associated with New Zealand, they are all at least 1,500 miles away. The
The Cook Islands and Niue are self-governing territories in free association with New Zealand. Tokelau is a New Zealand territory.
Here are the tourism websites to learn more about those locations:
- Cook Islands (cookislands.travel)
- Tokelau (www.tokelau.org.nz)
- Niue (www.niueisland.com)
Safety Tips for Traveling to New Zealand
- New Zealand has a well-equipped police force, and serious crime is rare. For emergencies, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical help. Officers are approachable and often patrol popular areas. If you need non-urgent police assistance, visit a local station or call 105 from within New Zealand.
- New Zealand has an emergency alert system that sends text warnings for earthquakes, tsunamis, and severe weather. The GeoNet app is useful for earthquake updates, while the MetService website provides weather warnings. If you’re in a coastal area, be aware of tsunami evacuation routes and follow local advice.
- New Zealand’s beaches are stunning but can be unpredictable. Safest: Patrolled beaches like Piha, Mount Maunganui, and Sumner Beach (look for lifeguards and swim between the flags). Most dangerous: Unpatrolled or remote beaches, especially on the West Coast, where rip currents are strong. Always check conditions before swimming.
- New Zealand takes biosecurity very seriously. Customs may seize and destroy things like used hiking boots, gardening tools, pet carriers, fresh food, and untreated wood. Clean all outdoor gear before arriving and declare any items that could pose a risk—fines are hefty for those who don’t.
- A license is required for freshwater fishing (like trout fishing in lakes and rivers) but not for saltwater fishing. Bag limits apply, and fishing rules change by region. Boating safety is taken seriously—life jackets are often required by law, and strict environmental rules protect marine life.
- New Zealand has some of the world’s best scenic drives, but roads can be narrow and winding. You must have a valid English-language license or an official translation. If renting a car, drive on the left, be cautious on mountain roads, and check for campervan restrictions before booking.
- New Zealand’s winding mountain roads and rough ferry crossings (like the Wellington–Picton ferry) can cause motion sickness. If you’re prone to it, bring medication or motion sickness bands. Some scenic routes, like the Crown Range Road, have hairpin turns that can make even experienced travelers queasy.
- Cell service is great in cities but spotty in remote areas like national parks and Fiordland. A local Vodafone, Spark, or 2degrees SIM makes navigation and trip planning easier. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafes and libraries, but mobile data is the best way to stay connected on the go.
- New Zealand offers a free safety text service for travelers. Send your travel plans to 7233 (SAFE) using Vodafone, Spark, or 2degrees. Police don’t monitor it, but if you go missing, they can access the database. It’s an extra layer of security, especially if traveling solo or going off-grid.
- New Zealanders take environmental and cultural respect seriously. Littering, damaging nature, or being careless in sacred areas is deeply frowned upon. If visiting a marae (Māori meeting ground), wear modest clothing and remove hats as a sign of respect. Leave places better than you found them—Kiwis will appreciate it.
So... How Safe Is New Zealand Really?
Before visiting New Zealand, check the latest government advisories for your home country.
I also like to check the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and Australia for a well-rounded view of safety.
As of early 2025, all government advisories are at the lowest level of a four-tiered rating scale.
In addition, the Global Peace Index ranks New Zealand as the fourth-safest country in the world.
Each country mentions the specific safety risks in the remote areas, which experienced adventurers strongly seek out.
As much as the volcano tragedy of 2019 impacted the perception of safety in New Zealand’s treacherous zones, it has also prompted new discussions and safety guidance for tour operators.
For example, tourists were told there was a Level 2 risk but weren’t told what that meant.
Make sure you ask questions if you don’t understand the risk of any activity, and never be afraid to back out if something feels off.
Barring an unpredictable natural disaster, New Zealand offers a peaceful or adventurous experience, depending on what you’re hoping to get out of the trip.
How Does New Zealand Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| New Zealand | 90 |
| Deadwood | 80 |
| Sturgis | 80 |
| Pierre | 81 |
| Spearfish | 80 |
| Hill City | 83 |
| Temuco | 31 |
| Sevierville | 73 |
| Pigeon Forge | 78 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many travelers, including those from the U.S., UK, Canada, and the EU, can visit New Zealand visa-free for up to 90 days but must apply for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before arrival. Longer stays or work visas require additional applications through New Zealand Immigration.
Currency
New Zealand uses the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find. Contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay work in most places. Currency exchange is best done at banks or airport kiosks, though ATMs typically offer better rates.
Weather
New Zealand’s seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Summers (Dec–Feb) are warm and great for hiking and beaches. Winters (June–Aug) bring snow to the South Island but mild weather elsewhere. The weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous regions, so always check forecasts before outdoor activities.
Airports
New Zealand’s main international airports are Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), and Christchurch (CHC). Auckland is the busiest and a common entry point. Domestic flights connect cities and remote areas, but rural airports are limited.
Travel Insurance
While New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) covers medical treatment for injuries from accidents, it doesn’t cover illness, lost baggage, or trip cancellations. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, adventure sports, rental car damage, and unexpected travel disruptions, especially given New Zealand’s unpredictable weather.
New Zealand Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
24 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 20 | 22 |
| Low °C |
16 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 |
| High °F |
75 | 77 | 73 | 68 | 64 | 59 | 57 | 59 | 63 | 64 | 68 | 72 |
| Low °F |
61 | 63 | 59 | 55 | 50 | 46 | 45 | 46 | 48 | 52 | 55 | 59 |
New Zealand - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Auckland | 79 |
| Christchurch | 80 |
| Wellington | 72 |
Terrorism low hahahahahaha
lmao
Yes low – one Terrorist event ever and he was Australian.
Clearly you do not know your ****ing history
They aren’t wrong.
just hope you do not end up getting shot in the name of pewdiepie
shooters are running havoc shooting everyone who does not subscribe to pewdiepie, a whole religious building was shot up in the name of pewdiepie as a sacrifice to him, 0/10 do not recommend.
just stop
not funny dude
Scary stuff ??
Rubbish! There was one nutcase who shot people in a Mosque. This did lead to tougher rules about who can buy guns. The Katipo spider is poisonous but very rare. The scary insect referred to is spelt Weta. It appears it is the biggest insect in the world (71 grams) but it is quite harmless & you would be lucky to come across one. It is a protected insect.
There has actually been a number of Terrorist attacks in New Zealand, not just one.
Why are you Anonymous? You don’t have any Ulterior Motives do you?
Really? Please don’t put your jokes here. People come here to research the country that they are travelling to.
keep your wits about you and follow basic safety stuff like don’t go by your self at night,watch your drink,be weary of strangers,don’t walk home from town(bars or clubs etc) without a group and you will be sweet. not as safe as people make it out to be though,but a beautiful place to be. oh and wouldn’t recommend hitchhiking unless you don’t mind potentially putting your self in a dodgy situation for a free ride XD
I live in NZ
That’s exactly right, nothing more to it.
I have lived in New Zealand all my life. it’s a safe place to visit and everyone speaks English of course so it makes it easier for most tourists to get along.
Too bad your government (a d the Aussies) went completely off the rails. Do you have any freedoms left compared to 2019? Or do you actually think it was good to trade rights for “safety?”
As a kiwi, it is a safe country but do keep your wits about yourself. I would go out of the big cities since NZ is more well known for destinations off the beaten track. If you love the coast, the North Island is where you want to be but if you love hiking, South Island all the way. During winter, if you love your snowsports, I’d head to the different mountains (Ruapehu, Coronet Peak, Cardrona).
(a local tip: make sure you have a rain jacket, especially in the winter coz it does rain quite often)
Good
I guess New Zealand is at least safest countries,Especially Auckland.
Safest country there is. My fam moving there soon.
Oh wow. Safest country there is. New Zealand is p e r f e ct. I am going to move there from usa. Yeah New Zealand safest on earth 10/10
Went there a year ago in August. Best experience ever. Stunning landscape, wonderful helpful people. More sheep than I can count. Felt 100% safe. Look forward to next visit. Got a rental car and drove all around the north island.
Safe for Women!
Super safe for women to travel there! You do not have any problem going out during day or night in China as a woman.
Pay attention to your safety.
Unfortunately, no country is 100% safe. Even in this country, you still have to be on your guard. Watch out for drug dealers here. Keep your belongings with you at all times and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Good advice right here. really nothing more to it.
enjoy NZ. It’s lovely.
AmAzInG
Yea. As a kiwi I agree with a lot of this. Our country is chill and safe but I wouldn’t let your guard down completely as these days crime isn’t as rare as it used to be. But its safe for woman, beautiful and interesting so I’d totally recommend a visit! (Uh…the only bad thing I can actually remember was a shooting at a Muslim church down in Christchurch…come to think of it, that was quite bad in a ‘people died’ sort of way…just uh…no matter how safe you feel, no matter where you are always keep a tiny part of you alert. I mean, It can’t hurt-)
Sorry for boring you to death 😛
Happy travels! <3
lovely country...
Overall I can call New Zealand a safe country, but don’t leave some stuff in your car, someone will always break your car window to steal it or steal your car. Be careful at night, I don’t recommend going to a park or dark alley, or looking at a smartphone on the street. Every year, at least one or two crimes happen targeting tourists. Otherwise you will fall in love with New Zealand’s beauty.
I have lived here over 10 years and travelled to every part of New Zealand. Traffic can be very bad especially in Auckland. New Zealand is like Japan located on tectonic plates called the Ring of fire. So earthquakes happen frequently, mostly not strong, but some years can be deadly like Christchurch earthquake 2011. Volcano eruptions also happen, a few years back there were tourists killed by White Island volcano eruptions and more in past decades which means New Zealand is a high risk country for natural disasters.
As a NZ local, this is pretty spot on! Only thing I’d like to add is if you’re travelling to NZ you MUST go to more than just the main cities. If anything, they are the most boring part of what our beautiful country has to offer. A couple of examples you should check out: Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanka, Taupō, Waiheke Island, to name a few!
I’ve lived here my whole life and I’d definitely recommend travelling here. You’re unlikely to run into any trouble while following common sense just stay alert if you’re in the middle of the city at night. I wouldn’t recommend just going to one of the main parts of cities like Auckland as they are probably the most boring bits of the country. I’d recommend checking out places like Queenstown and Milford Sound.
No pick pockets
Pick pockets are not an issue anywhere. It’s all about using your common sense and carrying your valuables in a more secure way.
Practice common sense like anywhere
Agree, is very safe here but that does not mean you can be complacent. Like anywhere in the world, practice common sense. There were terrorist attacks on two mosques in 2019 in Christchurch, that is a fact and it made world news. Fifty unarmed people were killed at their place of worship. Another fact, some tourists were killed when one of our volcanoes exploded out at sea a couple of years ago. But without the above uncontrollable and unforeseeable events, here is perfectly safe.
PS: we drive on the left side of the road therefore something to keep in mind if you are considering vehicle hire
Beautiful N.Z
As an Aussie ,New Zealand is a great place to visit ,lovely people , fantastic scenery ,great food and wine .Like all countries just use the usual precautions and you will be fine .
It's not safe anymore imo
Im a Kiwi, dunno how old are these reviews but with the recent crimes happening all over the country.. I don’t see NZ as safe anymore… all the ram-raids, stabbing and people getting shot. Mind you our police r utterly useless, and they don’t even allow to carry.. even after one of them got shot and killed during a regular traffic patrol.
Me and my mates don’t even go out anymore, especially at night, you can’t even go out and get a night-time snack without being harassed by some drunken fools, and there r broken beer bottles, vomits and piss stains everywhere.
This is Dunedin and Auckland mostly, but mates from Chch had even worse stories to tell.
You guys can always check NZherald or just go to reddit /New Zealand and see for yourselves. I love my country but honestly I felt safer when I was in other parts of the world, like Japan or Thailand, we could go out at night and not to worry about getting attacked or picked on.
Also don’t solely trust the crime-rate as we have tiny population compare to other countries, which means you are most likely to become the victims.
Safe as
As a kiwi living in the south island I can say we still go out and leave our house unlocked and keeps in the car. I don’t know what the big scary insects mentioned above are? Never seen anything like that.
New Zealand is Safe
I been to Christchurch and there was no threat of terrorism
Love it
I love NZ!