How to Register a Domain Name in New Zealand

NZ domain names allow New Zealand businesses to demonstrate a strong affiliation with the country.

Registering a domain name is a great way for businesses and individuals to get attention online. NZ domain names--those that end '.co.nz'--allow New Zealand businesses and individuals to demonstrate a strong affiliation with the country. This is particularly important for businesses that trade primarily within New Zealand. And, if businesses wish to register a second tier domain name, such as maori.nz, they can show an allegiance to a specific group within New Zealand.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Credit card

Instructions

1. Visit the New Zealand Domain Name Commission (see Resources) to see a list of all the authorized registrars--companies responsible for holding and selling NZ domain names.

2. Go to a registrar's website. Input your desired domain name into the search box available. If the domain name is not available, try different variations until you have found one that is. Make sure each registrar has an NZ in a green circle in the corner of its website, denoting that it is an authorized New Zealand domain name seller.

3. Compare prices of various registrars. Second-level domain names such as '.maori.co.nz' or, if you are involved with the New Zealand government, '.govt.co.nz,' are more expensive than traditional domain names, but they allow Internet users to see immediately that a company is connected to a certain section of society.

4. Purchase your desired NZ domain name. You now have a registered New Zealand URL.

References

• New Zealand Domain Name Commission: Registering a name

Resources

• New Zealand Domain Name Commission: Authorised Registrars
• Internet Assigned Numbers Authority: Domain names