Whether it's a dip in the pool or a rogue cup of coffee - thousands of Kiwis had to have their passports replaced last year
Whether it's a dip in the pool or a rogue cup of coffee - thousands of Kiwis had to have their passports replaced last year
24 January 2026
The Department of Internal Affairs is urging Kiwis to keep their passports safe - with almost 40-thousand reported lost, damaged or stolen in 2025.
It says people should be storing their passports securely, keeping them away from water and children - and checking it regularly for damage, stains, or missing pages.
The DIA warns damaged or lost passports can mean denied boarding, delayed travel plans and unexpected costs.
© 2026 Newstalk ZB, NZCity
