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Why Northern Hemisphere Businesses Should Consider Designating New Zealand in International Applications Under the Madrid Protocol
Effective 23 November 2025, WIPO has reduced the fees for designating New Zealand under the Madrid Protocol:
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Application/Subsequent Designation: CHF 46 (down from CHF 55) per class;
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Renewal: CHF 92 (down from CHF 109) per class.
This reduction makes New Zealand a cost-effective jurisdiction for international trade mark protection.
There are a number of benefits in designating New Zealand in your International Application, particularly if you are also designating Australia.
Strategic Regional Coverage with Australia
If Australia is already designated, adding New Zealand provides:
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Comprehensive brand protection across the Australasian market
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Access to two closely linked economies with similar consumer profiles
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A unified IP strategy for marketing, enforcement, and expansion
Fast and Reliable Trade Mark System
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New Zealand offers a first-to-use system
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Efficient examination process (typically ~6 months to registration)
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Strong legal framework for IP enforcement
Future-Proofing Market Entry
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Locks in priority dates
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Avoids future costs of subsequent designation
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Facilitates expansion into Asia-Pacific markets
If your business is already designating Australia in its Madrid Protocol application, now is the ideal time to add New Zealand and benefit from reduced fees and strategic regional coverage.
We are qualified to practice in both New Zealand and Australia and can guide you through the examination process should there be any objections.
Elena Szentiványi - September 2025
