Is new zealand safe
New Zealand is generally considered a very safe country to visit or live in. It has a low crime rate compared to other countries, and visitors and residents alike can feel comfortable walking around cities and towns without excessive concern for their personal safety.
Here are some statistics to give you an idea of the safety situation in New Zealand:
- According to the New Zealand Police, the overall crime rate in New Zealand has been declining over the past few decades.
- In 2020, the crime rate in New Zealand was 2,444.6 per 100,000 population, which is lower than many other developed countries.
- Violent crime, such as assault and robbery, is relatively rare in New Zealand. In 2020, there were 1,444 reported incidents of violent crime per 100,000 population.
- Property crime, such as burglary and theft, is also relatively low in New Zealand. In 2020, there were 1,344 reported incidents of property crime per 100,000 population.
However, as with any country, there are some areas and situations that may pose a higher risk to personal safety. Here are some things to be aware of:
- As with any country, there are areas that are considered safer than others. For example, the cities of Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are generally considered safe, while some rural areas may have higher crime rates.
- New Zealand has a high rate of road accidents, particularly on rural roads. It's important to drive safely and follow local traffic laws.
- There are some areas that are considered high-risk for outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping. For example, the Southern Alps and other mountainous regions can be prone to avalanches and rockfalls.
- New Zealand has a high rate of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods. It's important to stay informed about weather and geological conditions, and to follow evacuation orders if necessary.
To stay safe in New Zealand, it's a good idea to:
- Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, such as locking doors and windows, and keeping valuables secure.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- Follow local traffic laws and drive safely.
- Research your destination and plan ahead for outdoor activities.
- Stay informed about weather and geological conditions, and follow evacuation orders if necessary.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers natural disasters and other risks.
Overall, New Zealand is a safe country to visit or live in, but it's always a good idea to take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.