Many .nz providers use the WHOIS server currently running from the DRS at Domainz. When the SRS is implemented, a new WHOIS server will take over this function. Because of differences in data structure between the old and new registers, the output format of the new WHOIS server will differ from the current format. As some providers automatically process this output, we recommend modifying these programs to recognise and handle both formats, concurrently. This will avoid any timing issues that might occur at implementation time and guarantee that provider domain name searches continue operating unimpeded.

At the time we cut-over from the DRS to the SRS, it is our intention to keep at least one WHOIS server available for the duration. Even though providers will not be able to maintain the register during this period, their domain name searches will be able to continue functioning.

More information will be provided about the new WHOIS server as we approach implementation. We are planning to have a test WHOIS server available as soon as possible. In the meanwhile, the new WHOIS format is contained in a text file on this site in http://www.dnc.org.nz/content/dnc.org.nz.txt