Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
After a two-year pandemic pause, Munich’s annual Oktoberfest beer festival is scheduled to take place this year between 17 September and 3 October 2022 in Bavaria, Germany. New Zealanders planning on attending this year’s festival should read this information in conjunction with our current travel advisory for Germany
Before you go
All New Zealanders planning to attend Oktoberfest are encouraged to:
- Register your details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on the SafeTravel website. This allows us to convey important information to you in the event of an emergency and account for your well-being.
- Ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place. Make sure it provides cover for any pre-existing conditions as well as any activities you wish to undertake that may be excluded from regular policies.
- Check the latest entry regulations for Germany.
You can also find on SafeTravel a travel checklist, information on passports and visas and COVID19 also advice about what the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade can help with in case something goes wrong.
Safety and security
There is a heightened risk to your security in Germany due to the ongoing threat of terrorism. New Zealanders are advised to be vigilant and keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising a heightened degree of vigilance in public places. See our Germany travel advisory for further information.
Backpacks and heavy bags are strictly forbidden at the Oktoberfest venue and corresponding bag checks will be performed prior to participants entering the festival grounds. We recommend you secure all large bags and non-essential items at your accommodation.
We urge all New Zealanders attending Oktoberfest to behave responsibly and to respect local laws and customs. Foreigners have been detained by German authorities for lengthy periods on charges of antisocial behaviour and assault. Lengthy Schengen bans have also been issued to offenders.
New Zealanders attending Oktoberfest should be aware of the high incidence of petty crime in many European countries. Tourists are often seen as easy targets and can be most vulnerable in or around major tourist centres and sites. Be aware of pickpockets and never leave your bag or belongings unattended while in public places or on public transport. Ensure you keep your passport and other personal belongings secure when staying in hostels. As a precaution against drink spiking, never leave your drink unattended.
Where to get help
In an emergency call the European Emergency number 112 for Fire, Ambulance or Police.
Consular assistance
New Zealanders requiring consular assistance in Germany can contact:
The New Zealand Embassy, Berlin
Street Address: Atrium, Friedrichstrasse 60, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Telephone: +49 30 206 210. Outside of business hours, if you require emergency consular assistance please call +64 99 20 20 20.
Email: nzembber@infoem.org
Website: www.mfat.govt.nz/germany
Office hours: Mon – Fri 0930 – 1300, 1400 – 1600 hrs
For more information on attending Oktoberfest, please visit the official Oktoberfest website and the Munich city portal. Ten Golden rules can be found here.
Associated Advisories:
Posted:8 Sep 2022, 12:37
