Wondering how to structure and trademark your NZ consumer brand? This part covers the exact costs, legal setups, and IP protections founders search for when launching.
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1: How to Structure and Protect Your Brand
Wondering how to structure and trademark your NZ consumer brand? This section covers the exact costs, legal setups, and IP protections founders search for when launching a product-led business in New Zealand.
Resource | What You Will Get | URL |
Trademark Costs and Process in NZ | Local trademark registration via IPONZ: $100 per class (excluding GST), ~6 months, lasts up to 10 years.
For international protection, use a specialist such as AJ Park. | https://www.iponz.govt.nz
https://www.ajpark.com/ |
How to Structure IP for NZ & AU | Register in NZ first via IPONZ.
Consider AU via IP Australia or through WIPO for cross-border protection. | https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/
https://www.wipo.int/portal/en/index.html |
Managing Friends and Family Investment | Use a share subscription under your LTD.
Provide a clear, simple investment document covering valuation, risk, and exit expectations. | /w=1920,quality=90,fit=scale-down){kind=logo} Free Startup Templates for NZ Founders |
Legal Structures for Consumer Brands | NZ Limited Liability Company (LTD) is the default.
Ideal for national/international trade, fundraising, IP protection.
Requires at least one NZ or AU resident Director.
Set up via NZ Companies Office.
Shareholder agreements, IP contracts, ESOPs, and GST registration are all manageable in this format. | https://www.business.govt.nz/
https://companies-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/ |
Why a Clean Structure Matters
- Investors or acquirers can walk away if IP is not protected or legal structures are not assigned cleanly. Fix it early!
- Without IP protection you open yourself to being copied by others and losing your point of difference
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