Southeast Asia has long been one of the most popular destinations for New Zealand travellers. From the beaches of Thailand and Bali to the bustling streets of Vietnam and Cambodia, the region offers adventure, culture, and affordable travel experiences. But with the excitement of exploring comes the reality that Southeast Asia carries a higher risk of infectious diseases compared with New Zealand.
That’s why arranging your travel vaccines for Southeast Asia in Christchurch is an essential step before you fly. Protecting your health ensures you can focus on enjoying your trip, rather than worrying about illness.
Common health risks in Southeast Asia
Travellers to Southeast Asia may be exposed to several infectious diseases that aren’t common at home. The most important health risks include:
Traveller's Diarrhoea – Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common digestive tract disorder that causes loose stools and abdominal cramps, typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water while traveling.
Malaria – present in parts of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia (including some areas of Bali), and rural Vietnam. Preventative medication may be advised depending on your itinerary.
Typhoid fever – spread through contaminated food and water. Travellers staying outside major hotels or eating street food are particularly at risk.
Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B – both are common in Southeast Asia and can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or close contact.
Rabies – still prevalent in dogs, monkeys, and bats in many areas. Travellers who plan on hiking, cycling, or spending extended time in rural communities should consider rabies vaccination.
Understanding these risks is the first step to staying safe on your trip.
Recommended vaccines for Southeast Asia travellers
The exact vaccines you’ll need depend on your destinations, the type of activities you plan, and how long you’ll be away. A personalised consultation with a Christchurch travel clinic will help you build the right protection.
Commonly recommended vaccines for Southeast Asia include:
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough booster (Tdap)
Rabies (for long-term travellers or those with animal exposure risk)
Japanese Encephalitis (for rural or long stays in areas with rice fields/pig farming)
Influenza (seasonal flu vaccine, especially recommended for air travel)
In addition, your provider will discuss whether malaria tablets are recommended for your route and duration.
See our full Travel Clinic Services and Price List for detailed information.
Timing – when to book vaccines before travel
One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is leaving vaccines too late. Many vaccines require multiple doses, spaced several weeks apart, to provide full immunity.
Book at least 6–8 weeks before travel to allow time for all recommended vaccines.
Last-minute trip? Even if you’re departing in a few days, it’s still worth booking — some protection is better than none.
Annual travellers: If you regularly travel to Southeast Asia, keeping your vaccines up-to-date is essential. A quick review before each trip can save you time and worry.
Christchurch-based advice – where to get vaccines locally
If you’re preparing for a Southeast Asia adventure, you don’t need to travel far for expert advice. Sumner Pharmacy Travel Clinic in Christchurch provides:
Same-week appointments with an experienced pharmacist
Affordable vaccines with transparent pricing
No doctor’s prescription required for most vaccines
A personalised consultation to assess your itinerary and risks
Guidance on malaria prevention, bite avoidance, and food safety
Start with our quick Pre-Travel Screening Questionnaire to streamline your consultation.
Learn more about our Christchurch Travel Clinic and how we can support your trip.
Ready to travel safely?
Protect your health and your holiday with the right vaccines before you fly. Whether you’re heading to Bali for a week, backpacking across Vietnam, or exploring rural Cambodia, getting vaccinated is the smartest travel investment you can make.
Book your Southeast Asia travel consultation today at Sumner Pharmacy Travel Clinic.
