Guyana

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution in Guyana due to crime.

Guyana

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Due to the increasing suspension of airlinks and unprecedented operational pressures, New Zealand has temporarily withdrawn staff from its Embassy in Bridgetown (accredited to Guyana). 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.

Crime
There are relatively high rates of violent crime such as armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping and assault in Guyana, particularly in urban areas. New Zealanders in Guyana are advised to be security conscious at all times. Armed robberies can occur in businesses, shopping districts and hotels. If you’re staying in a hotel or guesthouse, use caution when opening the room doors and secure your belongings and valuables. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a robbery, mugging, or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

Crime rates are particularly high in the Stabroek Market, South Georgetown and Tiger Bay areas of Georgetown. Other high risk areas include East Coast Demerara, particularly near the villages of Buxton, Lusignan Friendship and Annadale, the East Bank Demerara region and New Amsterdam. Violent criminal activity on the coast, in Bartica and in the tourist resorts along the Essequibo River, occurs. There have been violent attacks on the road to and from Cheddi Jagan International Airport, mainly at night, and the Georgetown sea wall has been the site of several violent crimes. Assaults have also taken place in the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown. Visit such sites with an organized tour group.

New Zealanders should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas. When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras and jewellery. Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing also occurs in Guyana and is common in tourist areas, in larger cities and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Civil unrest
Public demonstrations can occur. New Zealanders in Guyana are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations, follow local media sources and be aware of their surroundings.

General travel advice
Penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Guyana should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place.

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

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

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

MIL OSI