Travel warning after Turkey blast

The airport is Europe's third largest. Photo: Reuters
The airport is Europe's third largest. Photo: Reuters
New Zealanders are being advised to put off non-essential travel to Turkey after a fatal blast at its main airport.

At least 28 people are dead and dozens more injured after three suicide bombers targetted the Ataturk airport in Istanbul last night (local time).

It is country's largest airport and a major transport hub for international travellers.  

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said today that 182 New Zealanders are in Turkey but there was no indication any were at the airport when the blasts happened.

The ministry was in contact with Turkish authorities.

It advised against all tourist and other non-essential travel to Istanbul due to the heightened threat of terrorism.

The ministry recommended New Zealanders follow instructions issued by local authorities, be vigilant in public places and register their details on www.safetravel.govt.nz.

Tuesday's attack bore some similarities to a suicide bombing by Islamic State militants at Brussels airport in March this year, which killed 16 people.

A coordinated attack also targeted a rush-hour metro train, killing a further 16 people in the Belgian capital.

- NZME and Reuters