1. Statement of Purpose

1.1 This policy outlines the collection of WHOIS data.

1.2 It should be read in conjunction with the "Privacy policy" ("PRI").

2. Background

2.1 InternetNZ has responsibility within New Zealand for the .nz domain name space ("DNS") and has implemented a shared registry system ("SRS") for the management of .nz domain name registrations and the operation of the DNS.

2.2 A SRS establishes a single register for registering domain names and associated technical and administrative information. .nz Registry Services ("NZRS") operates the register.

2.3 The registration of domain names and modification of information associated with that name on the register can be effected only by authorised registrars.

2.4 A WHOIS search is a worldwide feature of domain name systems. It functions as a user query mechanism that allows users to conduct searches on the identity and contact details of registrants.

2.5 WHOIS searches are generally used by system administrators and are an alternative way to access registrant information than via a WEB page.

3. Principles

3.1 The WHOIS query service will be publicly available through a web page to enable any person to inquire about a domain name. The query will ask the user to supply the full domain name and will only respond if there is an exact match. The following details will be provided:

• Domain Name;
• Designated Registrar;
• Name Server List;
• Registrant Contact Details;
• Administrative Contact Details;
• Technical Contact Details;
• Registration status;
• Date registered;
• Date registered/billed until.

3.3 WHOIS queries are an easier way for registrars to interface with the data to get, for example, technical information for a particular domain.

4. Policy

4.1 NZRS has established and is required to maintain a standard WHOIS server on the .nz database.

4.2 The WHOIS server will give access to, at a minimum, the same information that is shown on a web page interface.

4.3 The WHOIS server will limit wild card searches and requests from any one source to a maximum of 50 responses.

4.4 The server will meet the requirements of a stand-alone WHOIS server, responding to a WHOIS query initiated from a TCP based command line query.

4.5 The WHOIS server will be monitored to detect high transaction rates that might be the result of someone checking large numbers of domain names in a speculative manner.

7. General Information

7.1 A range of information about .nz policies, the SRS, registrant rights, and domain names in general is publicly available on the Internet. This includes:

• a list of all authorised registrars, with links to their home pages;
• a list of second level moderators and their contact details;
• current policy about domain names in .nz, dispute resolution, etc;
• frequently asked questions;
• links to other relevant sites.