NZ Company IRD Registration Checklist for New Directors (2026)

Step 1: Register Your Company for an IRD Number

Your new NZ company is a separate legal entity from you as a director. It needs its own IRD number. Register at ird.govt.nz under "Register a new business." You will need the company number from the Companies Office, your registered office address, and director IRD numbers.

IRD typically issues the company IRD number within 5 business days. You cannot open a business bank account without it.

Step 2: Decide Whether to Register for GST

GST registration is compulsory when your annual turnover exceeds NZ$60,000. It is optional below that threshold, but many advisors recommend early voluntary registration if you have significant upfront costs (you can claim GST back on purchases).

• Monthly filing: turnover over NZ$500,000 or new businesses that prefer regular cash flow management
• Two-monthly: the default for most small businesses
• Six-monthly: available if turnover is under NZ$500,000

Step 3: Register for PAYE if You Are Hiring

If you plan to pay yourself a salary or hire any employees, you must register as a PAYE employer before the first payday. PAYE is deducted from every employee payment and filed to IRD each payday via the payday filing system.

You also need to set up KiwiSaver employer contributions (3% minimum) and deduct employee KiwiSaver contributions.

Step 4: Understand Provisional Tax

Once your company earns more than NZ$5,000 in residual income tax in a year, it pays provisional tax in instalments during the following year. The standard method uses last year's tax as the base, increased by 5%.

Many new company directors are caught out by their first provisional tax bill. Set aside 28% of net profit each month in a separate account from day one.

Step 5: ACC Employer Levies

ACC levies are paid annually and cover workplace injury compensation. Make sure your ANZSCO industry code is correct when you register - misclassification can mean paying a higher levy than necessary.

Get Help from a NZ Accountant

Most new company directors benefit from a one-hour setup session with a chartered accountant or tax agent. They can ensure correct GST filing periods, set up a provisional tax payment schedule, and establish a payroll system before the first payday. Find a local accountant via FreshFirms Connect.