I invented something, how do I patent it in New Zealand?

A patent under the Patents Act 2013 protects an invention that is novel, involves an inventive step and is useful, and it grants exclusive rights for up to 20 years, subject to renewal fees. The most critical concern is novelty. Public disclosure before you file, such as posting a video or showing it to people without a confidentiality obligation, can destroy the novelty of your invention and prevent a patent. New Zealand has limited grace periods, so you should speak to a patent attorney immediately, before doing anything else, to assess the effect of your disclosures. The process involves filing a provisional or complete specification with the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand, examination and possible objections. Patenting is costly, and you should consider whether other rights, such as design registration, are more appropriate.