Business Set Up
Setting up a business correctly in New Zealand is crucial for long-term success. Starting on the right foot saves time, money, and stress, allowing you to focus on scaling your business effectively.

Setting Up A Business?
We can help you set up your NZ business by completing the following:
- Business Registration
- Company Incorporation
- Contracts

Correct Structure from the Start
Setting up your business correctly from the beginning is much easier and less stressful.
Our Most Common Services
-
Register A Company
Register and set up your company structure in New Zealand with Apex Digital. Our hassle free approach makes things easy for you.
-
Shareholder's Agreement
Get expert help with outlining shareholder responsibilities to protect yourself, and your company.
-
Director's Resolution
This resolution is important in ensuring you as a director are aware of your obligations and that these obligations are clearly documented.
Questions about Setting up a business
FAQs
How much is a fixed fee business set up package?
We start from as little $400NZD to $1400NZD depending on the complexity, structure, and amount of contracts required.
Get in touch and we can discuss a fixed fee package tailored to your needs.
Is it important to set up a business correctly?
Legal Recognition
- Incorporation gives your business a distinct legal identity, separating it from the owners or founders.
- A properly registered business is recognised by law, allowing it to enter contracts, sue or be sued, and own assets.
Limited Liability Protection
- Incorporating a business as a company (e.g., an LTD) protects the personal assets of its owners. This means personal liability is limited to the amount of investment in the business.
- If the business incurs debts or faces legal challenges, the owners are generally not personally responsible.
Professional Image and Credibility
- A registered business conveys trust and professionalism to clients, investors, and partners.
- Potential customers and stakeholders are more likely to engage with a company that is properly set up and adheres to legal and financial standards.
Tax Benefits and Compliance
- Proper registration allows the business to access tax benefits, claim deductions, and register for GST (Goods and Services Tax) when applicable.
- Operating without registration can lead to penalties, fines, or tax evasion charges.
Access to Funding and Partnerships
- Many banks, investors, and partners require proof of incorporation before offering loans, investments, or entering into contracts.
- A registered entity is eligible to receive grants and government funding for businesses.
Brand Protection
- Registering your business name ensures it is protected under intellectual property laws and prevents others from using a similar name.
- It secures your brand identity in the marketplace.
Scalability and Growth
- Incorporation makes it easier to bring in shareholders, raise capital, and expand operations.
- The structured framework facilitates seamless onboarding of new stakeholders, employees, or partners.
Compliance with Laws
- Operating without proper registration or incorporation is illegal in most jurisdictions.
- Compliance ensures you can operate without fear of penalties, shutdowns, or other legal issues.
What happens if I don't set up a business?
Legal Consequences
- Penalties and Fines:
Failure to register your business or meet legal requirements (e.g., GST registration if turnover exceeds NZD 60,000) can result in penalties from Inland Revenue (IRD) or the Companies Office. - Non-compliance with Tax Obligations:
Not registering for tax or keeping proper financial records could lead to audits, backdated taxes, and fines. - Limited Legal Protections:
If your business is unregistered, you may not be able to enforce contracts or protect your intellectual property, such as your business name or logo. - Personal Liability:
Without proper structuring (e.g., forming a limited liability company), your personal assets could be at risk if your business incurs debts or is sued. - Breach of Employment Laws:
If you hire employees without following employment laws (e.g., written contracts, minimum wage, health and safety compliance), you may face legal action or claims.
Financial Consequences
- Difficulty Raising Capital:
Investors and lenders often require a properly registered and compliant business to provide funding. - Missed Tax Benefits:
Properly registered businesses can claim expenses and deductions, which you might miss if your setup is incomplete. - Reputation Damage:
Operating informally can harm your reputation with customers, suppliers, and partners, leading to lost business opportunities.
Operational Issues
- Inability to Open a Business Bank Account:
Most banks require proof of a registered business to open an account. - Challenges with Contracts:
Clients or suppliers may be hesitant to work with an unregistered or informal business. - Business Growth Constraints:
Without proper legal and financial foundations, scaling your business can become complex and problematic.
How to Avoid Issues
- Choose the Right Structure:
Decide whether to operate as a sole trader, partnership, or limited liability company. - Register with the Companies Office:
If forming a company, register it and provide a company constitution if needed. - Set Up Tax Accounts:
Register with IRD for an IRD number and GST (if applicable). - Meet Employment Obligations:
If hiring, comply with employment and health and safety laws. - Keep Records:
Maintain proper financial, tax, and operational records.
Why should I trust Apex Digital to set up my business?
- Efficiency: Apex Digital handles the technicalities, including registering with the Companies Register, setting up tax IDs, and preparing necessary documents like constitutions or shareholder agreements.
- Accuracy: They ensure all registrations are compliant with New Zealand laws, reducing the risk of errors or omissions.
- Convenience: Saves you time and effort so you can focus on launching and growing your business.
- Expertise: Professional guidance ensures your business is set up with the right structure (e.g., sole trader, partnership, or company) to suit your goals.
Proper incorporation and registration provide the foundation for running a legitimate, secure, and scalable business. A service provider like Apex Digital streamlines this process, ensuring everything is handled professionally and in line with legal requirements