British tourists have been issued new guidance by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on travelling to one popular country – one that is often heralded as the world’s most beautiful.

The updated guidance provides crucial information for those planning trips to New Zealand, particularly if tourists intend to venture beyond the safety of its main tourist destinations into remote areas.

The Foreign Office emphasised the importance of thorough preparation and consultation with local authorities before embarking on journeys to remote locations.

This warning may come as a surprise to many, given that New Zealand is often found right at the top of many travel lists’ most beautiful destinations.

Indeed, New Zealand was named as the top-ranking destination by Rough Guides in November last year, beating the likes of Japan, Portugal, Iceland and Greece.

Travellers have been advised to “check with the local tourist authorities for advice” before visiting such areas.

For guidance on how to be “prepared”, holidaymakers are encouraged to utilise New Zealand’s Department of Conservation. The advisory also recommended consulting AdventureSmart, a platform managed by the New Zealand Search and Rescue Council (NZSAR), for additional safety information.

These official resources provide essential guidance for those planning to explore New Zealand’s more isolated regions.

Weather conditions in New Zealand’s coastal and exposed areas can rapidly become “dangerous”, according to the FCDO, with it emphasising the critical importance of closely monitoring regional weather forecasts when travelling in these areas.

Travellers should “leave details of your itinerary with family or friends,” the FCDO recommended, thereby ensuring that someone is aware of their planned movements while exploring the country’s remote regions.

When travelling abroad, it is always recommended to consult the FCDO’s comprehensive travel guidance for that destination, which will include the latest information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help.

For example, on December 30, a state of emergency was declared in Trinidad and Tobago over an “epidemic” of gang violence, which led the Foreign Office to issue a warning in its updated travel advice.

The declaration came after a weekend marred by gang-related violence, which resulted in multiple deaths, including five men believed to be victims of reprisal shootings.

The Foreign Office warned anyone travelling to the Caribbean islands to expect a heightened police and military presence. Officials urged visitors to always carry their ID and comply with the local authorities.

Under the state of emergency, law enforcement will be able to conduct searches, detain suspects for 48 hours and make arrests without a warrant.