New Zealand design registrations

Convention deadline, filing requirements and registration procedures

This page includes technical terminology for patent attorneys outside Australia. Registered designs is meant for Australians and New Zealanders.

New Zealand applies the six-month Paris Convention priority deadline.

Minimum filing requirements

• Title of product to be protected
• One set of representations, preferably line drawings
• Name(s) and address(es) of applicant(s)
• Convention priority details – country, date, applicant(s) and number of basic priority application(s)
• Statement of novel features of the design

A Power of Attorney is not required at the time of filing.

Information that may be late filed

• Certified copy of basic priority application(s)
• Nationality of applicant
• An ‘Authorisation of Agent’ (essentially a Power of Attorney)

15-year term

The registration may remain in force for a period of five years, and can be extended for two further five-year periods by paying renewal fees.

Automatic examination

Examination typically occurs within a month or so of filing. If the examiner has no objections, a certificate of registration will issue.

See also: New Zealand design registrations – Coverage, novelty requirements and grace periods

Experienced Australian patent attorneys to care for your clients’ New Zealand design rights.