Minister of Internal Affairs Nathan Guy has announced the roll-out of a new style of ePassport from today, containing new artwork and security features.
"The new security features will help to future-proof our passport against fraudsters and maintain visa-free entry for New Zealanders into more than 50 countries.
"The New Zealand passport has an outstanding reputation around the world and these changes will further enhance that. As a country we need to take advantage of the latest advances in technology to maintain international confidence in our passport."
As well as improved security features, the new ePassport features unique artwork telling the story of New Zealand through themes of navigation and travel. The cover is black with a silver fern design and the language is English and Te Reo Maori throughout.
"This new style of passport will be gradually phased in over the next few months. Both the new and existing passports are secure, valid and equally accepted."
The price of a new passport is unchanged.
Hello, my name is Jack Sparrow. I'm a 50 year old self-employed Pirate from the Caribbean.