Business

New Zealand — Business: Company Formation

New Zealand has a straightforward company formation process, but the details can be complex. It costs $10 (plus GST) to reserve a company name and $118.74 (plus GST) to apply to incorporate a company.

VerifiedGovernment / official sourceIncorporating a companyLast reviewed: 2026-09-18

Key facts

  • It costs $10 (plus GST) to reserve a company name and $118.74 (plus GST) to apply to incorporate a company.

Steps

  1. Step 1: Choose a Business Structure — Decide on the type of business that suits your needs and goals.
  2. Step 2: Register Your Business — Register your business with the Companies Office, and obtain any necessary licenses and permits.
  3. Step 3: Obtain a Business Number — Get a Business Number from the Inland Revenue Department for tax purposes.

Costs

  • Company registration fee: $118.74 (plus GST)

Required documents

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association

Common mistakes

  • Failure to choose the correct business structure
  • Insufficient or inaccurate information in the company registration documents

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