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How long does copyright protection last?
Copyright does not last forever. The New Zealand time limit will depend on the original work involved and when it was either created, published, performed and in the case of product designs - commercialised. Below is a quick reference guide:
Copyright work | New Zealand time limit |
Literary, dramatic, musical and artistic* works | 50 years beyond the death of the author |
Publisher’s copyright (typographical layout of a published edition) | 25 years from publication |
Sound recordings and film | 50 years from the year in which the work was made |
Communication works including repeats | 50 years from the initial broadcast or transmission. |
*Commercialised product designs (Artistic work that has been applied industrially) - product designs and casting moulds - works of craftsmanship |
25 years |
This guide is not exhaustive and time limits are subject to legislative changes. You can download current Acts and Regulations from New Zealand legislation and check on the status of Bills at New Zealand Bills.
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