TRADEMARK COUNTRIES

Selling your products and services in New Zealand is an exciting opportunity for growth. Protecting your brand with a trade mark registration in New Zealand is a crucial first step.

Why Register Your Trade Mark in New Zealand?

A New Zealand trade mark registration gives you:

• Exclusive rights to use your brand for your goods or services in New Zealand.
• The legal tools to stop copycats and counterfeiters in New Zealand.
• The ability to take action in New Zealand Courts to enforce your rights.
• Border protection by recording your trademark with New Zealand Customs to stop counterfeits.
• The right to use the ® symbol in New Zealand, showing that your brand is officially protected.

In short, a New Zealand trade mark is a valuable asset for your business to own.

How the Process Works

We guide you through every step of the trade mark registration process in New Zealand:

1. Search & Advice – We check if your brand can be registered and is clear to use in New Zealand.
2. Application Filing – We prepare and lodge your application with the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ).
3. Examination & Publication – We manage status updates, examiner reports, objections, and possible oppositions.
4. Registration – We provide you with the certificate and advise you on proper trade mark use
5. Renewal – We remind you when renewal is due each ten (10) years.
6. Ongoing Support – We serve as your Address for Service, ensuring you receive all official correspondence from IPONZ.

What You Should Know

• Risk of non-use: While you don’t need to show use when filing, you must use your trade mark in New Zealand in respect of all registered goods/ services to keep it valid. After a 3-year grace period, other traders may apply for full or partial cancellation of your trade mark for non-use.
• Strict examination: IPONZ carefully examines new trade mark applications to ensure your trade mark is distinctive and does not conflict with existing brands in New Zealand.‍
• Foreign applicants: If you are outside of Australia or New Zealand, you must appoint an Australian or New Zealand representative to manage your application and communications on your behalf.

Why Work With Us

As international IP lawyers, we specialise in helping businesses protect their brands internationally, including in New Zealand. From the initial clearance search to long-term brand strategy, we make the process clear, efficient, and strategic, so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.