The situation in the Middle East remains highly volatile following recent escalations, including U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites on Sunday, 22 June 2025. This has led to increased regional instability and disruption to international travel routes.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) has issued urgent warnings advising:

New Zealanders in Iran to leave immediately, if it is safe to do so.
Travellers may be impacted even if their destination is not in the Middle East, due to flow-on effects in global travel.
Travellers with connections or layovers in the region may experience delays, re-routing, or cancellations.

We urge all policyholders to closely monitor local media, airline updates, and MFAT advice.

Coverage Clarification – “In Principle” Guidance

We provide the following clarification regarding how policies may respond to claims relating to this situation:

Section 1 – Cancellation and Curtailment

Cover may apply to cancelled or curtailed travel arrangements only where the reason for cancellation meets the standard criteria for eligible events under the policy.
This does not include any cancellations, delays, or curtailments arising as a result of war, civil unrest, or other hostilities.

Medical and Other Claims

Claims for medical expenses or other events unrelated to the conflict will be assessed in accordance with the standard policy terms and conditions.

Extension of Insurance

If you’re unable to return home due to circumstances outside your control, your policy includes an automatic 21-day extension at no extra cost. However, if you’re able to return but choose to extend your stay, you’ll need to complete a Change of Policy — and this may involve an additional premium.

Emergency Assistance

Our Emergency Assistance team is available to:

Provide non-financial assistance related to the hostilities (e.g. information, coordination)
Support travellers requiring assistance for medical or non-conflict-related claims

Contact Details:
Outside New Zealand: +64 9 886 8484
Within New Zealand: 0800 082 647
✉️ Email: sosnz@goinsurance.co.nz

Travel Advisory Reminder

We strongly recommend that travellers stay informed by regularly reviewing government-issued travel advice.

For New Zealand travellers, visit: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz