Company Incorporation in NZ

New Zealand consistently ranks #1 in the world for "Ease of Doing Business." You can incorporate a limited liability company entirely online in under 15 minutes.

The Process

  1. RealMe Account: You need a verified RealMe login to interact with government services.
  2. Reserve a Name: Check availability on the Companies Register and reserve the name (costs approx $10).
  3. Incorporate: Provide details of directors, shareholders, and registered office. Ensure you have signed consent forms from all directors and shareholders. (Costs approx $100).
  4. Tax Registration: Apply simultaneously for an IRD number (tax ID) and register for GST if your expected revenue exceeds $60,000 per year.

Director Requirements

A New Zealand company must have at least one director who:

  • Lives in New Zealand; OR
  • Lives in an "enforcement country" (currently only Australia) AND is a director of a company incorporated in that country.

This rule exists to ensure the IRD and courts have someone within jurisdiction to hold accountable for company offenses.