Emergency Help Abroad – New Zealand

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting New Zealand — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to fines or imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons without authorisation, including knives or restricted tools, is illegal.

• Alcohol consumption in public areas is restricted in many towns and cities.

• Drink-driving laws are strict and heavily enforced with low alcohol limits.

• Bringing illegal substances into the country can result in arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• New Zealand values respect for Māori culture — follow protocols at marae and cultural sites.

• Modest and respectful behaviour is expected in religious or sacred spaces.

• Littering in public spaces, beaches or national parks is prohibited.

• Damaging natural landscapes, geothermal areas or protected sites is illegal.

• Graffiti and vandalism are criminal offences.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification — carry your passport or a copy.

• Public disorder, aggressive behaviour or harassment can lead to arrest.

• Theft and vehicle break-ins can occur in tourist car parks — never leave valuables in cars.

• Protests or demonstrations may require permits.

• Bribing police or officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Speed limits, seatbelt rules and road laws are strictly enforced.

• Driving while tired or inexperienced on mountain roads can be dangerous.

• Parking violations and vehicle infringements may result in fines or towing.

• Using a mobile phone while driving without hands-free is illegal.

• Overstaying visas or NZeTA conditions can result in fines or deportation.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS  

• Drone use requires registration and is restricted in national parks and near airports.

• Some Māori cultural sites have photography restrictions — always ask first.

• Avoid photographing military bases or secure installations.

• Respect the privacy of individuals when taking photos.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• New Zealand has fragile ecosystems — removing plants, rocks or shells from protected areas is illegal.

• Feeding wildlife, including kea and marine animals, is prohibited.

• Entering geothermal zones outside marked pathways is extremely dangerous and forbidden.

• Swimming or hiking in closed or hazardous areas is restricted.

• Lighting fires in forests or campsites may require permits; bans apply during dry seasons.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging Māori heritage sites, carvings or sacred areas is illegal.

• Removing artefacts or natural materials from heritage sites is prohibited.

• Climbing or touching culturally significant structures may be forbidden.

• Purchasing items made from protected species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels comfortable or commonplace in the UK may not be interpreted the same way in New Zealand.

• Don’t underestimate the weather, which can change rapidly — always carry layers when hiking.

• Don’t walk onto sacred Māori sites (wāhi tapu) without permission, as some areas are culturally restricted.

• Don’t swim at beaches without checking local conditions, especially on west-coast surf beaches with strong rips.

• Don’t use drones without checking rules, particularly near wildlife areas and cultural sites.

• Don’t ignore trail closures, especially after storms or landslides.

• Don’t feed wildlife, including kea parrots and ducks, as it disrupts natural behaviour.

• Don’t leave valuables in parked cars, especially at trailheads where opportunistic theft occurs.

• Don’t litter in national parks, which are protected and monitored for conservation.

• Don’t touch or step on geothermal features, which can be dangerously hot and unstable.

• Don’t underestimate the sun, as UV levels are extremely high — sunscreen is essential.

• Don’t drink and drive, as enforcement is strict and rural roads can be challenging.

• Don’t trespass on farmland, particularly near livestock or fenced private tracks.

• Don’t approach marine mammals too closely, including seals and dolphins, which are protected by law.

• Don’t attempt long hikes without preparation, as some tracks require maps, gear and advanced fitness.

• Don’t leave food outside your tent, which attracts birds and animals.

• Don’t drink untreated water from rivers or streams, due to potential contaminants.

• Don’t disrespect Māori carvings or meeting houses, which are sacred cultural symbols.

• Don’t rely on mobile signal in remote areas, and always let someone know your route.

• Don’t ignore tsunami signage, especially on low-lying coastal routes.

• Don’t swim in unfamiliar lakes or rivers, where depths and currents vary dramatically.