Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Due to the increasing unavailability of air links in and out of Iran and the pressure COVID-19 is placing on the local health system, the Ministry has decided to temporarily withdraw New Zealand staff and their families for health and safety reasons. Staff will return temporarily to the head office in Wellington or be transferred to support critical COVID-19 response work.
The closure took effect on 24 March and the Ministry will be reviewing the temporary closure of the Embassy in 4 weeks' time. Consular services will continue to be provided to New Zealanders in Iran through the Ministry's 24/7 Consular helpline (0800 30 10 30 or +64 99 20 20 20).
New Zealanders are advised not to travel overseas at this time. If travelling, the advice is to register on SafeTravel(external link).
The Ministry is working actively to sustain its network of Embassies and High Commissions across the globe, and the services it provides to New Zealanders overseas in the face of considerable disruption.