What are the essential legal documents and regulations for setting up a technology or software development company in New Zealand?

To set up a technology or software development company in New Zealand, you will need to prepare and register a variety of legal documents. Key requirements include:

• Registering your business name with the New Zealand Companies Office (https://companies-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/).
• Obtaining Workers' compensation insurance and business insurance (e.g. public liability, professional indemnity).
• Securing Council approval (if operating from a commercial premise) and a lease agreement (if renting premises).
• Protecting your intellectual property (e.g. patents, trademarks) through IPONZ (Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand) (https://www.iponz.govt.nz/).
• Complying with data protection and privacy policies and procedures under the Privacy Act 2020 (https://privacy.org.nz/).