21 Dec 2006

New Zealand downgrades travel warnings for parts of Fiji

7:46 pm on 21 December 2006

New Zealand has downgraded its travel advisory to parts of Fiji other than Suva.

The ministry of foreign affairs and trade has issued a fresh advisory warning against non-essential travel to the capital.

It warns that the risk to personal security in Suva remains high.

It says that while Suva is calm, a rapid deterioration in the situation can't be ruled out, and New Zealanders with concerns should consider leaving.

The advisory urges New Zealand residents to avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and areas of military activity.

The dependents of New Zealand High Commission staff were moved to New Zealand on December 11th and are yet to return to Fiji.