passport changed

Hello, I am an experienced traveller to China and usually get a friend to book for me. Recently I changed my passport due to old one got damaged. Fo my upcoming trip I require spread 18 trips over 4 weeks, however my friend said because its a new passport I can only book 3 (or maybe 5) of them because they need to verify the new passport. Can you tell me if this is the case or can I book with old passport (and take both to prove I make the booking?)
Thank you for you assistance, Peter (Australia)