The New Zealand passport is to get a makeover, the first change to its design since 1992.
Internal Affairs Minister Rick Barker says the current passport is indistinguishable from others around the world, but the new one will have a distinctly New Zealand character.
It will be a black booklet with a silver fern on the front and rear covers. The internal pages will feature images of navigation and travel.
Mr Barker says there are no plans to increase processing fees and the new passports, which have enhanced security features, will be phased in as people apply for them.
The passport will continue to be written in Te Reo Maori and English thoughout.
