Annual Return (Companies Office)
Every registered New Zealand company must file an annual return with the Companies Office confirming its details are current: company name, registered office address, directors' names and addresses, shareholding structure, and share allotments. Each company is assigned a specific month at incorporation. Failure to file results in the company being struck off the register, which can trigger deemed disposal of assets and other tax consequences.
Who this applies to
- All companies registered on the New Zealand Companies Register
- Overseas companies registered in New Zealand
- Dormant or non-trading companies — the obligation continues regardless of trading status
What to file
Annual Return confirming company details via the Companies Office online portal. Filing fee: NZD 45.
How to file
Online at companiesoffice.govt.nz using the RealMe or Companies Office login. If details are unchanged, the return takes less than 5 minutes to confirm.
Payment due
NZD 45 filing fee paid at the time of online submission within the assigned annual return month.
Penalties for missing this deadline
Late filing fee of NZD 43 per month overdue. If the return remains unfiled, the Companies Office issues a notice and may strike the company off the register. Struck-off companies can be restored but incur restoration fees and administrative burden.
Filing checklist
- Log in to companiesoffice.govt.nz and confirm the annual return month for the company
- Review directors' details — names, residential addresses, and whether any directors have resigned or been appointed since last year
- Confirm the registered office address is current (this must be a physical address in New Zealand, not a PO box)
- Review shareholder details and share allocations
- Pay the NZD 45 filing fee by credit or debit card
Documents you'll need
- Companies Office login credentials (RealMe or Companies Office account)
- Details of any director changes (resignations, appointments, address changes) since last return
- Details of any share transfers or new allotments since last return
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the assigned annual return month because the company was incorporated in an unusual month — check the Companies Office register, not a calendar assumption
- Failing to update director addresses when directors move, leaving the register with stale information
- Ignoring the Companies Office reminder email and allowing the company to be struck off, which can have serious tax consequences
Never miss a New Zealand deadline
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