number_6:
Even though you are the bearer of bad news, I do sincerely appreciate it. I am going to be making several calls to travel agencies, passport agencies, and the NZ consulate to see what I can do about this. On a broader note, I assume the majority of the public treats a passport like a drivers license--that it's valid until expiration date and is unaware of the passport validation policies of different countries. Perhaps airlines should inform international travelers of different nation's requirements.