Domain Name Dispute Resolution Scheme

Sometimes parties disagree about who has the rights to a .nz domain name, or about associated domains added to an existing domain name. These disagreements are called disputes.

As of 1 October, the New Zealand Dispute Resolution Centre (NZDRC) will administer the .nz Dispute Resolution Scheme on our behalf.

This scheme facilitates parties' resolution of their disputes by either mediation or having an expert determine who should be the domain name holder of the disputed domain name(s).

Some examples of domain name disputes:

A newly established business has set up a website providing the same services as you and their domain name is very similar to your existing domain name. You believe you are now losing business and customers.
You failed to re-register your domain name, and now a competitor has it. You’d like to get it back.
Your business partnership has fallen apart and you now cannot access your emails as the other person is the domain name holder of the domain name.

These are some examples of what could be considered. If you are unsure, it is recommended that you contact NZDRC.

For information on the process

Please visit the NZDRC website.