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The NZBN is making it easier to do business in NZ

The New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) will transform the way Kiwis do business. It encourages innovation, supports trade within and beyond the borders of New Zealand, and has far-reaching productivity and economic growth potential.

The NZBN will enable better procurement processes, less duplication, smoother financial transactions, access to more reliable business information, and faster and smarter business interactions.

NZBN website

Graphic of 5 people at table accessing NZBN

About the NZBN

The NZBN is a globally unique identifier that’s based on the GS1 Global Location Number. It helps businesses better connect and interact, through a shared network of information. That’s because the NZBN links to core business information that organisations are most often asked to share when doing business – such as their trading name, phone number and email address.

Unlocking the digital economy

By making it faster and easier to share information, the NZBN will save businesses time and money when interacting and transacting with each other and with government. 

How it works

  • Through the use of APIs, the NZBN offers businesses many ways to quickly and easily share and update information.
  • Over time, information will be updated via APIs as part of everyday business interactions, such as dealings with a bank or telecommunications company.

As an open-source solution, NZBN information is accessible to all – from government to companies, small businesses and individuals.

Woman working at computer.

Benefits

The NZBN is free for all types of businesses in New Zealand, including government agencies, companies, sole traders (self-employed people and contractors), partnerships and incorporated societies. The benefits offered by the NZBN will continue to grow as more businesses begin using it.

The NZBN will enable new ways of doing things that we haven’t even thought of yet. When you can see your business network and understand the relationship between thousands of organisations, the opportunities are endless.

The New Zealand Business Number will transform the way Kiwis do business. 

Man using tablet in a warehouse.

What’s next?

We will continue to explore and encourage the development of digital innovations, such as how the power of Blockchain technology could be harnessed to enhance the NZBN offering and provide businesses with multiple channels to update their information.

This initiative was created as part of the Better for Business collective.

Better for Business: 10 agencies — one vision

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