Santiago Civil Disturbances

Ongoing protest action by student and teacher unions over the financing of the public education system has increased the danger to New Zealanders visiting tourist attractions in the centre of Santiago. 

Although for the most part peaceful, violent incidents have occurred and the extensive use of tear gas and water cannon by riot police during recent protests has raised the potential for bystanders to be caught up in, and possibly injured, in confrontations.  New Zealanders visiting Santiago, and to a lesser extent other cities, are advised to keep abreast of news updates on protests and stay away from areas where confrontations are likely to occur.