Visa to travel outside of HK, not enough time to send passport.

Hi, I'm traveling for a year and plan to visit China this Summer. I would like to travel outsid eof HK, but as an Irish Passport Holder need a visa to visit Shanghai and other places. I'm leaving soon so don't think I have time to send my passport to the embassy in Dublin. How long does the embassy need your passport for? If too long, what are my options? Will I be able to obtain one in New Zealand? However I will only be there for a few weeks...

Thank you