Buying a new domain name

Buying a domain name could take you down a couple of paths.

If your business has a unique name its likely that your domain name is not already been selected. I find the best way is to use the Domain Name Commissioner website at DNC.ORG.NZ. There is a search feature on the site to check for a domains status. If your business name is “ABC Widget Cleaners” you might want to try putting in “abcwidgetcleaners.co.nz” , if the domain name is no allocated then you can purchase the name and then use it for your own website.

However, if your name is already taken there maybe a couple of options.

If you own the trademark you maybe able to get the name transfered to you. Check out the DNC.ORG.NZ website and Dispute Resolution Service they offer.

If you dont own the trademark or IP around a name, it may be for sale. Contacting the owner of the domain maybe the best option to see if you are able to purchase it from them. Sometimes its best to seek legal advice around this rather than getting into a battle over a name. 9 times out of 10 if you have IP around a name then it may take abit of time but you should be able to secure it.