A New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) is a unique 13-digit number for all New Zealand businesses, including companies, sole traders, partnerships, registered charities, trusts and government agencies. It is designed to make it easier for businesses to connect and interact with each other as well as government agencies. In recent times, a NZBN has become an integral part of applying for the government’s COVID-19 financial support packages.
Many organisations have been automatically assigned a NZBN, including registered companies, incorporated societies and limited partnerships. To find out if your organisation already has a NZBN, search the register here.
If your business does not have a NZBN, you will need to apply for one. The application process is online using your RealMe login (or creating one if you don’t have an existing login). You will need proof of identity in the form of a drivers’ license or passport.
In most cases processing takes no more than three working days.
Note that if you are a sole trader, partnership or trust you are only eligible for a NZBN if you are currently in business.