Starting a business? As a newcomer to the business world or self-employment, it’s important to take certain steps from validating your idea to trademark registration. Below are some tips that can help you protect your investment and ensure a successful future in entrepreneurship in New Zealand.
To ensure the success of your business idea, it’s important to have confidence in it. One effective way to achieve this is by writing a business plan, which allows you to thoroughly think through all aspects of your idea.
Whether you’re considering a name or using your own name, you can use our ONECheck tool to check its availability. With just one search, you can determine if the name is available as a business name, trademark, web domain, and social media username. This tool can assist you in selecting a name that can be marketed and protected.
As a business owner or self-employed individual, you have the freedom to select a structure that aligns with your needs. The most prevalent options are sole trader, partnership, or company, each with its own advantages and considerations. Depending on the structure you choose, there may be different requirements for government registration. Our Choose Business Structure tool can assist you in making an informed decision.
Choose Business Structure tool
Obtaining registrations from government agencies may be necessary for your business. Some of these agencies utilise a RealMe® login. If you don’t already have a username and password, you can create one during your New Zealand Business Number registration (refer to step 5).
*RealMe® is a registered trademark of the New Zealand Government.
The New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) serves as a distinctive identifier for your business. It connects to relevant information, such as your trading name, phone number, or email, which is required for others to collaborate with you.
Acquiring an NZBN streamlines business operations by eliminating the need to repeatedly provide the same information to new contacts or when changes occur. Companies are automatically granted an NZBN, while sole traders, self-employed individuals, or partnerships can register online for free.
Register for an NZBN — NZBN
Regardless of whether you’re a newcomer to self-employment or business, making a small investment now can preserve your ability to market and safeguard your name as you address other priorities. Start by utilising our ONECheck tool.
Obtaining a web address is an affordable, fast, and straightforward process. You can refer to the Domain Name Commission’s list of authorised registrars to find a suitable option.
Authorised registrars — Domain Name Commission
If you opt for a company structure for your business, it is crucial to reserve your company name with the Companies Office. This process is quick, low-cost, and simple, requiring a RealMe login. Once you reserve the name, you must incorporate your company within 20 working days, using the reserved name.
Reserving company name — Companies Office
Prior to investing in a registered trademark, it’s advisable to obtain an initial assessment report from the Intellectual Property Office (IPONZ). You can apply for a Search and Preliminary Advice (SPA) report online via the IPONZ website, which is quick, low-cost, and typically delivered within five days. Additionally, you can conduct a free search of the trademark register.
A RealMe login is required for this process.
Search and preliminary advice — IPONZ
Trade mark register — IPONZ
Before proceeding with the registration process, ensure that your business name has received a green light from the IPONZ SPA check.
Certain regulations may apply to your business based on its industry or location. These regulations may include fair trading, consumer guarantees, privacy, health and safety, and food licensing. It’s essential to research which central and local government regulations apply to your business. Use the Compliance Matters tool to search for central government regulations specific to your industry.
If you’ve chosen to structure your business as a company, you can easily register online with the Companies Office at a low cost. The registration process is quick and straightforward, but you’ll need a RealMe login to proceed.
Start a company — Companies Office
As you register your company, you have the option to simultaneously register for GST.
You can easily register for GST online with Inland Revenue.
If your annual earnings exceed NZ$60,000, it’s mandatory to register for GST. You can also register for GST when registering your company. If you are not registering a company or did not register for GST at the time of company registration, you can do so online at ird.govt.nz. The registration process is free, quick and easy.
GST — Inland Revenue
To safeguard your brands in the marketplace, the best way is to register a trademark. You can start your application online with IPONZ using your SPA check, which is a low-cost, quick, and easy method for obtaining high-level protection. A RealMe login is required to proceed.
Trade marks — IPONZ
Are you struggling with accounting and business management for your business? We are here to help! Get in touch with us to discuss how our expert services can support your business’s success. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how we can add value to your operations.
