Passport printnig with new visa

[lewisculshaw]

Just have a quick question.

My current situation is that I submitted my ITA on August 26th and my documents returned October 22nd. As my WHV expired on December 29th I applied for an essential skills visa which was granted on February 3rd and is currently printed on my passport.

Looking at others timelines I feel I should have a case officer very shortly but am also realistic to the fact this may not be the case. I am going back home in mid-May for my mothers 60th birthday so I was wondering what would occur if I end up getting approve (if I get approved at all) whilst I am away? Would I still be travelling the conditions of my ES Visa until I have the residency visa printed in my passport or would the residency visa become active and void the ESV regardless?

[ChrisMwn]

Your residence visa doesn't take effect till you meet any AIP requirements and provide your passport and the visa is issued. You have 6 months from the date of AIP to provide your passport, and then a further 12 months to arrive in NZ, if you aren't in NZ at the time.