The greatest dangers in this region are from the usual petty theft and pickpockets. Take care while travelling and keep your valuables well hidden and your bags closed and out of reach of others. It should also go without saying that you should not accept drinks or food from strangers. Women travelling alone should be careful as there are reports of sexual harassment.

It is not adviseable to wander around alone at night but if you must the places to particularly avoid would include railway stations, bus stops and deserted areas. However there are usually night police patrolling transport areas.

Areas associated with crime tend to also be tourist locations, train stations, crowded market places etc. Watch your bags and wallets carefully.

Most countries in Oceania have strict laws about drug use or portage. Try to also keep a note of your relevant embassy or consulates and any other emergency numbers you may require for lost credit cards, travellers cheques, health insurance etc.

Places to Avoid
PMV's in Papua New Guinea are not advised for foreigners but the site editor has used them and not had any problems! In Papua New Guinea it is generally advised not to move around outside of daylight areas. Violence in tribal communities in PNG is common but unlikely to involve tourists unless you get caught in the middle. Hill country areas, Port Moresby and Bougainville Island are places where care is advised.

In Australia there have been several recent incidents of violence involving backpackers in remote areas. Backpackers should have no particular fear regarding crime in Australia, it is always best to be cautious after dark.

Occasional coups and unrest have taken place in idyllic places like Fiji. The only place currently with reported unrest is the Solomon Islands. Australian troops are currently monitoring the situation and you would be best to check on the current situation before you visit. There is no evidence that any tourists are targeted and it is not currently listed as a place to avoid travel.

Useful Telephone Numbers
Australia - 000 for Ambulance, Fire and Police.
New Zealand - 111 is the all safety number
Papua New Guinea - 000 (but not available in all areas)
Fiji - 000
Solomon Islands - no emergency numbers
New Caledonia - Emergency medical treatment - 15; Police - 17; Ambulance and Fire - 18.
American Samoa - 911
Cook Islands - Police - 999. Ambulance and hospital - 998. Fire - 996.
Guam - 911
Nauru - contact local operator
Tahiti - Dial operator
Tonga - 911
Tuvalu - None present