MFAT update on New Zealanders in Chile

MFAT update on New Zealanders in Chile

* There have been no reports of New Zealanders being among the casualties.

* We have made contact with around 140 New Zealanders in Chile to confirm they are safe.

* The ministry is continuing to work to contact around another 100 New Zealanders to check on their whereabouts and wellbeing. This process is being hampered by communications difficulties in Chile.

* To allow the ministry to focus on contacting those in the affected area we ask that people who have reported concerns for New Zealanders, and have since heard they are safe, to tell us.

* Family and friends who have concerns about New Zealanders in the affected area should try to make contact with them in the first instance.

* If they cannot make contact with relatives and have concerns they should call MFAT on 0800 432 111, or +64 4 439 8401 if calling from overseas

* The ministry is advising against all tourist and non-essential travel to Chile until the situation becomes clearer (Santiago Airport is currently closed).

* Those who still decide to continue plans to travel to Chile should contact their travel agent as their travel plans may have been disrupted by the earthquake

* People in Chile, or about to travel to Chile, are encouraged to register on www.safetravel.govt.nz.

ENDS

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