Solomon Islands trip in June?

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has limited resources and response times to calls for assistance can be slow. Incidents of robberies involving violence, handbag snatching, pick-pocketing and harassment, particularly around the Central Business District and Market, have been reported.

There is the potential for trouble owing to both civil unrest and drunken behaviour. Foreigners and expatriates may be attractive targets for violence. Exercise caution if going to local nightclubs and be aware that such venues rarely have adequate fire precautions in place.

Take security precautions at all times, and maintain a high state of personal awareness. Where possible avoid travel around Honiara at night. Particular care should be taken in the squatter settlements around Honiara, White River and the Lungga Bridge, Sun Valley, Matanikau Bridge and Henderson area. Recent security incidents in these areas have included improvised road blocks, sporadic rock throwing and more serious violent criminal acts, including sexual assault, robbery and vehicle hijacking. These areas should be avoided. If you plan to visit rural Guadalcanal, take day trips outside Honiara or visit the island of Malaita you are advised to check this advice before travelling. Visits to other provinces in Solomon Islands are generally trouble-free.

Reviewed: 01 December 2011, 12:30 NZDT
Still current at: 02 April 2012

There is some risk to your security in Solomon Islands due to criminal activity and the risk of civil unrest and we advise caution.

Political tensions can arise with little notice and we recommend that New Zealanders avoid demonstrations and large gatherings as they could lead to civil unrest and turn violent suddenly, as happened briefly on 16 November 2011 following the election of a new Prime Minister. New Zealanders are advised to closely monitor the media and other local information sources for information about safety or security risks.

There are criminal elements within the country, some of whom may have access to firearms. Criminal activity (such as theft and burglary) and some acts of violence do occur, especially around Honiara. Such activity is usually aligned to alcohol consumption, domestic related disputes and land issues. New Zealanders are advised to maintain a sensible level of personal security awareness at all times and avoid travelling late at night and in the early hours of the morning in Honiara.