starting a business

Starting a business is an exciting opportunity to build the business of your dreams. To help you set the foundation of your new venture, we’ve laid out the essential documents which you’ll need to get started.

There are about 546,000 SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) in New Zealand, making up 97% of businesses. SMEs play a vital role in the New Zealand economy, contributing over 25% of New Zealand’s GDP.If you’re ready to take the plunge and set up your own business, you’ll want to get it right first time. Take our business risk assessment to find out what you need to do to get your business off to the right start!

Already set up your business? We recommend you work through the risk assessment and make sure you didn’t miss anything.

what’s next?

  • Incorporating a company

    Incorporating a company is a vital step in establishing a separate legal entity, providing limited liability protection and a formal structure for your business.

  • Website Terms & Conditions

    Website terms and conditions are essential for establishing the rules and guidelines governing the use of your website, and protecting your intellectual property.

  • Basic Constitution

    A basic constitution serves as the foundational document outlining the governing structure, rules, and principles of a business, ensuring clear guidelines for decision-making.

  • Guide to Shareholders' Agreements

    Our guide to shareholders' agreements provides insights into creating a legal document that defines the rights, responsibilities, and relationships among shareholders.

  • Shareholders' Agreement Term Sheet

    A shareholder agreement term sheet briefly outlines the main provisions of a shareholders' agreement by streamlining negotiations.

  • Company Register

    A company register is a comprehensive record of essential corporate information, including details about directors, shareholders, and key documents.

Next up

Can we help?

If you have any questions about the process of starting a business, or if you’re unsure whether you need a customised version of our documents, get in touch and we can help you figure out your legal needs.