Should I set up a company or stay a sole trader?
- 22.07.2026
I formed a small company last year and am a bit confused about what I must do every year. My accountant handles tax, but I am not sure about company law obligations. What are the ongoing requirements to keep the company in good standing?
The main obligations are found in the Companies Act 1993 and related legislation. Each year you must file an annual return with the Companies Office, keeping director, shareholder and address details up to date, and notify changes within the required time. Your company must keep accurate accounting records, a share register and minutes or written resolutions, and you should hold or record an annual shareholders' meeting or use written resolutions where the constitution permits. Depending on size, you may need to prepare financial statements under the Financial Reporting Act 2013. Tax obligations, such as returns and GST, are separate and are dealt with through Inland Revenue. A company with at least one director resident in New Zealand, or resident in Australia and a director of an Australian company, satisfies the residency requirement.
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