The 5 Key Steps to Registering a Trade Mark in New Zealand 2026

5 March, 2026

Step 1 – Filing Confirmation

Once your trade mark application is submitted to the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ), the application is officially recorded in the register.

You will receive confirmation that:

• Your application has been successfully filed

• A unique application number and filing date have been assigned

• Your trade mark and applicant details have been recorded

Step 2 – Examination (Usually within 2–4 months)

An IPONZ examiner will review the application under the Trade Marks Act 2002.

The examiner will assess whether:

• The trade mark is distinctive

• The mark conflicts with earlier registered marks

• The goods and services are properly described

Possible outcomes:

Accepted
If no issues are identified, the application proceeds to publication.

Compliance Report (Objection)
If concerns arise, IPONZ will issue a report explaining the issues. Applicants are typically given 12 months to respond.

Step 3 – Publication in the Trade Marks Journal

If the application passes examination, the trade mark will be published in the New Zealand Trade Marks Journal.

This publication allows the public to review the application before registration.

Step 4 – Opposition Period (3 months)

Once published, a 3-month opposition period begins.

During this time, third parties may oppose the registration if they believe the trade mark conflicts with their earlier rights.

If no opposition is filed, the application will move toward registration.

If an opposition is filed, we will assist you in responding and managing the process.

Step 5 – Registration

If the opposition period passes without objection, the trade mark will be officially registered.

You will receive:

• An official Certificate of Registration

• Exclusive rights to use the trade mark in New Zealand for the registered goods and services

A New Zealand trade mark registration is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

At-a-Glance Timeline

If there are no objections or oppositions, the entire process usually takes around 6–9 months.

What happens now?

If you have already submitted your trade mark application, your application is now in the examination queue.

Questions?

If you would like to check the progress of your application or discuss your trade mark strategy in New Zealand, feel free to contact us.

Email: ngan.tran@maygusttrademarks.com.au
Maygust Trademark Attorneys®