Doing Business in New Zealand is a comprehensive guide and a helpful first step in your journey. It has been prepared by HLB Auckland, for the clients and partners of our international affiliate network, HLB International.

Setting up in a new country can be daunting. However, New Zealand is a great choice for individuals and businesses seeking new growth opportunities.

New Zealand is situated in the South West Pacific and being just west of the International Date Line it is the first sizeable nation to start each new day. The country is comprised of several islands with a combined area of some 268,680 square kilometres. It is a land of great natural beauty and contrasting geography with a temperate climate and ample rainfall.

New Zealand has a relatively deregulated and open economy. New Zealand’s economic wealth has traditionally come from agriculture, fishing and forestry but increasingly manufactured goods and services make a major contribution to the export trade. Tourism and education for foreign students are also important sectors of the economy.

New Zealand is a proponent of free trade. It has a special trading relationship with Australia (CER), is a member of the World Trade Organisation, a signatory to the General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT), a member of Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) and a signatory to the Kyoto protocol. A free trade agreement with China was signed in 2008.


Wish to learn more? HLB Mann Judd can speak your language. Our professionals will provide recommendations and guidance across all business and tax matters as well as facilitate introductions for insurance, banks and property needs.