IPONZ

Dream it. Do it. Own it.

Ideas come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There are a few different ways you can protect them. Not sure what you need? Find out below.

Trade secret

Key confidential information that is not publicly known but that has real economic value to a business. Trade secrets include things like confidential processes, customer information, business strategies, and secret recipes.

Learn about protecting trade secrets when hiring staff on business.govt.nz

  • Maintains competitive advantage
  • Generally free
  • Self enforced
  • Valid as long as you don't disclose this information
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Company name registration

A registered business name stops any other person from registering a company with that name. Reserving your company name is the first step in incorporating a company in New Zealand.

Search and apply for company names on the Companies Register

  • Maintains competitive advantage
  • Usually costs less than $200
  • Instantly available online
  • Valid as long as you are trading or trading as that name
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Domain name registration

A domain name helps people locate your website. It distinguishes your website from global competitors.

Search and register domain names on the Domain Names Register

  • Helps ensure you have a presence on the web
  • Usually costs less than $100
  • Instantly available online
  • Usually leased on a 1 - 5 years plan
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Other registered IP types

IPONZ also grants and registers the following types of IP.

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Events & education

Become an expert in owning your ideas with presentations, and other resources to improve your understanding of IP.

The Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) grants and registers IP rights in New Zealand. This includes trade marks, patents, designs, plant variety rights and geographical indications. We also provide general information about non-registered IP including copyright.

Our services help you protect your innovations so that you get the full economic benefit of your IP.

Learn more about IPONZ