British High Commission and New Zealand Post launch new British passport service

From 1 February 2010, customers applying for a new British passport will benefit from an innovative new service. Applicants will submit their documents to the local New Zealand PostShop, where the staff will conduct basic checks to ensure the application is correct.  The service, which sees collaboration between the British High Commission and New Zealand Post, delivers a range of benefits.

• Convenience. Submitting your application is easy as a trip to your local New Zealand PostShop.
• Efficiency. 70% of passport applications are sent back or delayed because of they are not completed correctly.  This service is going to save time and money for our customers.
• Peace of Mind. New Zealand PostShop staff will ensure you avoid simple mistakes.
• Visibility & Security. The service will utilise New Zealand Post's mail tracking service, so you'll be able to see where your documents are and know they are in safe hands.  The tracking service will operate alongside our passport help line, so you'll be able to see where your application has got to.

Why are we launching this service?

We are constantly looking for ways to deliver the highest quality service and reduce the cost of producing a passport, including the fee you pay. 
In July 2009 we established the new regional passport processing centre at the British High Commission in Wellington. This is the largest passport processing centre outside UK and serves Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific, processing some 80,000 passports a year. The centre delivers economies of scale to ensure that passports are delivered consistently, securely and within our targets. We've improved our service since opening the centre.

The 70% of incomplete or erroneous passport applications that are sent back or delayed result in extra cost to customers both in time lost and courier costs. Having New Zealand PostShop staff check applications with customers, will reduce the chance of this happening. The service has been piloted in Australia, where it has been well received.

What do I have to do from 1 February 2010?