Companies Office filing for New Zealand companies
A general overview of what the Companies Office register requires from a company. Confirm details on companiesoffice.govt.nz.
The New Zealand Companies Office, part of MBIE, keeps the public register of companies under the Companies Act 1993. Companies must file an annual return and keep details such as directors, shareholders, registered office and address for service up to date. Some larger entities must also file financial statements under the Financial Reporting Act 2013. Filing is done online. Which obligations apply to you depends on the type and size of the company, so check the Companies Office website or ask your accountant. 4invoices is an invoicing tool. It does not connect to the Companies Office, prepare annual returns or remind you of filing dates.
- Companies file an annual return and keep register details current.
- Director, shareholder, registered office and address for service details must stay accurate.
- Larger entities may also have financial statement filing duties.
- 4invoices does not connect to the Companies Office.
How it works
Find your company on the Companies Office register at companiesoffice.govt.nz to see its details and filing status.
Check when your annual return is due. The Companies Office sends reminders to the contact details it holds, so keep them current.
Update the register when things change, such as a new director, a change of address or a share transfer.
Check with your accountant whether your company must file financial statements under the Financial Reporting Act 2013.
File online. If you miss filings, the Registrar can start steps that may lead to the company being removed from the register.
Legal references
- Companies Act 1993 — registration, annual returns and register details.
- Financial Reporting Act 2013 — financial statement duties for certain entities.
- Companies Office (companiesoffice.govt.nz), MBIE.
Frequently asked questions
When is my company's annual return due?
Check your company's record on the Companies Office register, which shows the date. The Companies Office also sends reminders to the contact details it holds.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
The Companies Office can follow up and, if filings stay outstanding, the Registrar can begin steps that may end in the company being removed from the register. Contact the Companies Office or a lawyer for the process in your case.
Do I have to file financial statements?
Only certain entities do, for example some larger companies and other reporting entities defined in the Financial Reporting Act 2013. Many small companies do not. Ask your accountant.
Can 4invoices file my annual return or sync with the Companies Office?
No. 4invoices does not connect to the Companies Office or file anything for you. It creates invoices with GST per line and lets you download them as PDF, with a 6-month free trial and no card required.