New Zealand has reached a remarkable milestone in its journey toward a more connected digital economy, with over one million businesses now registered with the New Zealand Business Number (NZBN).
“The NZBN is a simple idea with a big impact. It gives each business a unique identifier that makes it easier to work with government, other businesses and suppliers – saving time, cutting duplication and reducing admin,” Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk said in a media release.
Penk describes the NZBN as a single, reliable source of business information that government agencies can access instantly.
The NZBN can also be used by businesses and individuals to verify the authenticity of the company they are engaging with.
According to Penk, the milestone includes “nearly 200,000 sole traders and unincorporated businesses, which aren’t legally required to register but are choosing to.”
“That shows they see real, practical value in it – especially smaller operators who may not have large digital systems and need tools that help them get on with the job.”
Launched in 2016, the NZBN has become a fundamental part of New Zealand’s digital infrastructure, facilitating processes such as invoicing, procurement, compliance, and emergency response.
With an increasing number of businesses registering and regularly updating their information, the NZBN becomes progressively more valuable, allowing for smoother digital transactions and enabling more effective use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
With stronger data sharing among agencies, the government can provide businesses with quicker and more customised services.
“This government is committed to backing businesses and driving economic growth. Modernisation like this is key to helping Kiwi businesses thrive and compete globally.”
Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Penk urges businesses that have not yet registered for a New Zealand Business Number to complete their registration promptly.