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In an emergency dial 111. This connects you to the police, ambulance and fire service.

New Zealand has a reputation for being a safe society and it is compared with many countries. People should still use common sense. The New Zealand police have a reputation for being helpful and friendly. They don't carry firearms and you should feel confident about going to them if you have any problems while you're visiting New Zealand.

Here are some other tips for keeping safe:

• If you're out late at night walk with a friend, especially if you're a woman.
• Stay away from unlit areas and streets where there are few people.
• Always lock your car in urban areas, especially if it's parked where there aren't many people around.
• If you're in rural areas and tourist spots, park your car where it's visible and always lock it.
• Take your valuables with you when you leave your car - never leave your camera, personal belongings, money or travel documents in your car.

All hotels and public buildings must also display public notices about emergency and evacuation procedures. The front of any telephone book offers instructions and guidelines for what to do in a natural disaster. Earthquakes still occur frequently, but most are not serious and don't cause any damage. You will also find contact numbers for Civil Defence, the organization that coordinates help and rescue services, in the front of the telephone books.