Locals can now expect faster passport processing times following an upgrade to the passport system in March.

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden announced that wait times have halved since the upgrade, which initially caused unexpected delays.

“As of Tuesday 6 August, the passport application queue has reduced by over 57 per cent - 31,000 applications down from a peak of 53,847 at the beginning of May, and wait times have halved,” said van Velden.

In July, the Department of Internal Affairs issued 50,397 passports, surpassing the number of applications received by over 10,700.

Of these, 83 per cent were issued within six weeks, and 91 per cent of the applications were submitted online, with 32 per cent being group applications.

“The upgrade to the passport system implemented in March was the most significant in over a decade. I am pleased that Kiwis can use the new options that make applying for a passport online a lot easier,” van Velden stated.

She also mentioned that the Department continues to work hard to reduce wait times and has measures in place to meet its upcoming goals.

Currently, applicants are advised to allow up to five weeks plus delivery for a standard passport, down from ten weeks in May.

“Reducing passport processing times continues to be a key priority for the Department,” van Velden emphasised.

This improvement offers relief Coasties, ensuring smoother travel planning and less waiting for essential documents.