Registering Conflicted (blocked) domain names.

Background:

In 2014 the .nz domain name space released registrations directly at the second level. At the time of this release, some existing domain name holders had the rights to register the corresponding domain at the second level. If there was more than one existing .nz domain name registered (such as “anyname.co.nz” and “anyname.net.nz” ), it wasn’t clear who should have the right to register the new “anyname.nz”. These unresolved names that more than one party might want were called ‘conflicted’ names. 

On 1 November 2022, the new InternetNZ Registry System (IRS) was launched. This alignment to industry standards required the Domain Name Commission and InternetNZ to review and change how the Conflicted Names Process was managed in connection with the .nz registry.

We have provided information below to explain how this new process works.

Conflicted Names are now “Blocked”

All conflicted names as of 1 November 2022 were moved to a “blocked” list. This prohibits the registration of these domain names on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Domain name holders are able to request the registration of these domain names; however, the Domain Name Commission will only approve this registration in the following circumstances:

• The conflicted/ blocked domain name has been resolved via preference lodging of those who have rights to the conflicted domain name.
• The request received to register the domain name matches the registration information of the domain name with rights.

The Domain Name Commission reviews all requests for registration of “blocked names” and will only sign off/ accept these based on the above criteria being met.

Communication the Registrants Receive.

The Domain Name Commission has a process in place to notify the eligible domain name holder to register the blocked domain name.

• DNC will send an automated notification email as soon as the domain name is resolved and will encourage the eligible registrant to register the resolved name.
• DNC will send automated reminders following the first notification - to the eligible domain name holder within the 60 days period the domain name has been resolved to allow the eligible domain name holder to register the domain name. 

After 60 days, if the eligible domain name holder does not register the blocked domain name, the domain name will get released to the public.  

How does a registrar identify a conflicted/blocked name?

Whether you are using EPP or IRS Portal, please check the steps outlined here. 

What happens when a request to register a domain gets declined?

We suggest that domain name providers ensure they communicate the Domain Name Commission decision with their customers.