Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
In Christchurch, New Zealand, businesses are registered under the Companies Act 1993 and the Partnerships Act 1908. They set out the legal requirements and procedures for setting up and managing different types of businesses including limited liability companies, partnerships, and sole traders. The purpose of the registration is to allow the government to track companies for tax and regulatory purposes.
Starting a business in Christchurch involves several legal processes that can be complex. A lawyer can assist in selecting the best legal structure for your business, ensuring you comply with all statutory obligations, and protecting your property rights. Lawyers can also help with dispute resolution, guidance on contractual matters, and provide expert advice on business law.
The Companies Act 1993 governs the foundation, management, and termination of companies. It requires businesses to register with the New Zealand Companies Office, to engage a director residing within New Zealand, and to maintain accurate financial and company records. The Partnerships Act 1908 regulates partnerships and outlines the rights and obligations of the partners. This could be particularly relevant to businesses that are not solo enterprises.
To register a business, you'll need the name of your business, details about your company structure, information about the directors and shareholders, and the address of the registered office.
Online registrations usually get processed within a few hours. However, in some cases, it can take up to three working days. Manual registration can take up to 10 working days.
Legally, you do not need a lawyer to register your business. However, a lawyer can be helpful to ensure all legal aspects are taken care of, minimizing the risk of future complications.
Operating a business without registering can result in significant penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. It can also lead to challenges in establishing a legal identity, obtaining finance, and enforcing rights.
The cost of registering a company in New Zealand is NZ$150 if you use the online service and NZ$240 if you prefer to register manually.
The New Zealand Companies Office and the Inland Revenue Department are excellent resources for business registration requirements. The Christchurch Chamber of Commerce and Business.govt.nz also provide helpful guidance and services for starting a new business.
If you need legal assistance in business registration, consider consulting a law firm specialising in business law. They can guide you through the registration process, ensure legal compliance, and provide valuable professional advice. Once you have retained a lawyer, you can proceed with registering your business with the New Zealand Companies Office.
