Legal advice to protect and enforce your intellectual property
Why IP Protection Matters
Intellectual property is a key business asset. Protecting your brand, designs, content, or proprietary information helps maintain your competitive edge and avoid disputes. This is especially important for startups, exporters, and businesses in creative or technology-based industries.
Strong IP protection supports your reputation, attracts investors, and gives your business room to grow with confidence.
Understanding Intellectual Property
Intellectual property (IP) covers the creations, innovations, and ideas that make your business unique. In New Zealand, this includes trademarks, copyright, designs, patents, and confidential information.
Our specialists help you identify what needs protecting, how to protect it, and what to do if others copy or misuse your work.
What We Help With
We advise on how to protect, manage, and enforce your intellectual property, including:
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Trade mark protection and brand registration
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Copyright and confidential information
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IP-related contract clauses and ownership disputes
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Cease and desist letters and infringement claims
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Licensing terms and commercial IP agreements
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Managing IP during partnerships, mergers, sales, or exits
Our goal is to strengthen your IP strategy so your assets support long-term business growth and value.
Strategic Legal Advice for Your Business
We help you understand your IP rights and take practical steps to protect them. Our advice is tailored to your industry, stage of growth, and commercial goals.
We work with:
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Startups developing new brands or technology
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Exporters and manufacturers protecting products in multiple markets
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Creators, designers, and software developers managing ownership and licensing
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Established businesses reviewing IP before sale, investment, or expansion
Our focus is on clarity, protection, and commercial results.
Where We Work
We work with clients across New Zealand, with local support available through our Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton offices.
Questions We Often Get Asked About IP Protection
Do I need to register my trademark in New Zealand?
Yes. Registration gives you exclusive rights to use your brand name or logo for specific goods or services. It also makes enforcement easier if someone copies your brand.
What if I share ideas with a potential partner or investor?
Always use a confidentiality or non-disclosure agreement before sharing information. We can prepare these to help protect your position.
How do I stop someone using my content or design without permission?
You may be able to rely on copyright or trade mark law. We can send cease and desist notices or take enforcement action if needed.
Can I sell or license my intellectual property?
Yes. IP can be sold, licensed, or assigned as part of a commercial deal. We help prepare agreements that protect your rights and ensure fair value.