Ever wanted a license to become an auctioneer in New Zealand and wondering how to get it? As it happens, we’ve got the answers you need.

Join us as we guide you through the steps to official recognition in this profession with our simple, step-by-step guide. Let’s get started!

How to apply for an auctioneer license in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, the practice of auctioneering doesn’t involve obtaining a formal license. Instead, individuals and companies looking to engage in this profession must register with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

To become a registered auctioneer, you’ll need to complete the appropriate auctioneer application form that corresponds to your specific application type.

For a comprehensive overview of the registration process, please refer to the step-by-step guide provided below.

Difficulty	Easy ●○○○○
Number of steps	5
Time to perform steps	Approximately 20 working days (additional waiting time not included)
Things you need	Personal identification (e.g., passport or driver’s license)”Authority to Release Information Form” for obtaining your criminal record Access to the Ministry of Justice website A computer or mobile device with internet access Access to email or postal services Payment method for the application fee

STEP 1: Get a copy of your criminal record.

Before you can kickstart your journey to become a registered auctioneer in New Zealand, you’ll need to obtain a copy of your criminal record. This step is important because you’ll need to include it with your application. 

If you don’t know how, here’s how to get a copy of your criminal record:

1. Visit the Ministry of Justice Website: Open your web browser and go to the Ministry of Justice website. It’s like an online hub for all things legal.

2. Find the Criminal Record Check: Once you’re on their website, look for the “Criminal Record Check” option in the menu. Give it a friendly click.

3. Get Your Own Criminal Record: Now, on the page that shows up, scroll down a bit until you spot the “Get your own criminal record” link. Click on it – it’s your golden ticket to getting that record.

4. Read Up: You’ll land on a page that’s all about getting your very own copy of your criminal record. There, you’ll see what you need to have to be eligible for this record. It’s quite simple, really. You’ll need:

• Your valid ID (like a passport or driver’s license).
• A completed form called the “Authority to Release Information Form” that you’ll need to sign and date. You can access it on the same page.

5. Apply Online: Once you’ve got these ready, you’ll see an “Apply online” link on the page. Click it like you mean it.

6. Fill in the Details: You’ll be taken to an online form where you’ll need to provide some information. Follow the instructions, attach the documents you prepared earlier, and hit that “submit form” button.

Now, here’s the good news: getting your criminal record is totally free! So, there’s no need to worry about any payments.

But remember, it might take a bit of time–up to 20 working days. So don’t panic if you don’t get it in a flash. They’ll email it to you when it’s ready. And if you’re planning to send your auctioneer registration application by post later on, print out that criminal record – you’ll need it.

STEP 2: Fill out the auctioneer application form relevant to your application.

Alright, let’s get down to business! In this step, you’ll be tackling the auctioneer application form. But first things first, you need to select the application form that aligns with your situation.

Individual application form

Company application form

Click on the link provided for the form that suits your circumstances. Whether you plan to submit it via email or by post, we recommend filling it out electronically for clarity and ease.

Now, let’s delve into the essential sections of each application form, providing you with the necessary information to prepare yourself before filling out the auctioneer application form.

1. Auctioneer Application Form for Individuals: If you opt to fill out the Auctioneer Application Form for Individuals, here’s what you’ll encounter:

• Business Details: This is where you’ll provide information about your trading name, if you have one, and, if applicable, your NZBN (New Zealand Business Number). These details help identify your business entity.

• Individual Details: Here, you’ll share your personal information, including your first name, middle name (if applicable), last name, and date of birth. 

• Residential Address: It’s your home address – the place where you live.

• Principal Place of Business: This section requires you to specify the location in New Zealand where you’ll primarily conduct your auctioneer business. It’s where your auctioneer activities will be centered.

• Postal Address: If your postal address is different from your residential address, you’ll include it here. This is where you’d like to receive mail related to your application.

• Application Contact: You’ll provide contact details here for inquiries or communication regarding your application. Make sure the contact information is accurate and up-to-date.

• Address for Service: This must be a physical New Zealand address where you can receive mail. It’s important to note that they don’t accept PO Boxes, Private Bags, Document Exchanges, or rural delivery addresses here. This address is where official communication will be sent.

• Individual Disqualification Questions: This part consists of a series of yes or no questions aimed at identifying any potential disqualifications related to your application.

• Individual Declaration: You’ll conclude your application with a declaration, essentially signing off on the accuracy and completeness of the information you’ve provided.

2. Auctioneer Application Form for Companies: Now, let’s prepare you for the Auctioneer Application Form for Companies. Here’s a breakdown of each section:

• Company Details: In this section, you’ll fill in your company’s name, trading name (if different), company number, and, if applicable, the NZBN (New Zealand Business Number). 

It’s essential to ensure that these details match what’s officially recorded on the Companies Office Register for your company.

• Principal Place of Business: Indicate where your company primarily operates within New Zealand. This is the central location for your company’s auctioneer business activities.

• Postal Address: If your postal address differs from the principal place of business, provide it here. It’s where you’d prefer to receive mail related to your application.

• Address for Service: Similar to the individual application, this must be a physical New Zealand address capable of receiving mail. Remember that they don’t accept PO Boxes, Private Bags, Document Exchanges, or rural delivery addresses here. This address is where official communication will be sent.

• Application Contact: Offer contact details for inquiries or communication regarding your company’s application.

• Company Disqualification Questions: This section involves answering questions related to disqualifications that may affect your company’s application.

• People Concerned in the Management of the Company: Provide details about every director and the chief executive of the company. This includes their names, positions, and residential addresses. It helps establish the key individuals involved in managing the company.

• Declaration: Just like in the individual application, you’ll conclude your company’s application with a declaration, indicating that the information provided is accurate and complete.

With this enhanced understanding of each section, you’re better equipped to navigate the whichever application form you need to fill out effectively. 

Difference between individual and company application.

If you’re uncertain about whether to apply individually or as a company, let’s make this crystal clear:

Individual Registration: This is the path to choose if you’re a sole proprietor or an individual looking to conduct auctions under your own name, without involving a registered company. Individual registration is ideal if you plan to auction items using your personal identity and not a company name.

Company Registration: On the other hand, if your business is an incorporated company, and you intend to use the company’s name for conducting auctions, then company registration is the route you must take. This means that if your company is officially registered and you wish to auction items under your company’s name, you’re on the company registration path.

STEP 3: Send the completed application form.

Now that you’ve filled out the application form, it’s time to send it on its way to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) along with the copy of your criminal record. Don’t worry; this step is as straightforward as it gets.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Choose Your Sending Method: You’ve got two options here – you can either send it via email or by good old-fashioned post.

• Email: If you prefer the digital route, you can email your application form and a copy of your criminal record to [email protected]. Just attach the documents and hit send.

• Post: Alternatively, if you like the feel of paper in your hands, you can send it via post. Address it to the:

Market Integrity Branch – Trading Standards

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

PO Box 1473

Wellington 6140

2. Await MBIE’s Review: After you’ve sent in your application, MBIE will take the reins from here. They’ll go through your application and let you know if they need any additional information from you.

That’s it! You’ve successfully completed Step 3. Now, you just have to sit tight and wait for MBIE to do its thing. Rest assured, they’ll be in touch if they need anything else from you.

STEP 4: Pay the required fee.

Alright, we’re getting closer to the finish line! Once MBIE receives your completed application, they’ll send you an invoice for the registration application fee. 

This invoice will provide a breakdown of the registration application fee, which totals $310.00, inclusive of GST (Goods and Services Tax).

You’ll have multiple options to make this payment, and the invoice will outline these methods for you. Whether it’s through a bank transfer, credit card, or another convenient method, you’ll find clear instructions within the invoice itself.

Remember, it’s essential to ensure you pay the entire fee in full, as your application can only be considered once the fee has been successfully settled.

Once your payment is complete, your application will be well on its way to becoming official.

STEP 5: Await MBIE’s application review.

Now, here comes the waiting part. MBIE will diligently review your application, and this process may take a little bit of time—up to an additional 20 working days. During this period, they’ll be going over all the details to make sure everything is in compliance with their requirements.

While you’re waiting, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your email and any contact details you provided in case MBIE needs any further information or clarification from you. They’ll reach out if necessary.

Patience is key during this stage. Remember, your application is in capable hands, and MBIE is working to ensure that everything aligns with the registration criteria.

What happens next after my application review?

Once you’ve completed Step 5, where you patiently await the MBIE’s thorough application review, the MBIE will notify you regarding the status of your application. The outcome will fall into one of the following categories:

Successful Application: If your application is approved, MBIE will promptly email you a certificate of registration. This certificate includes a unique registration number and your official date of registration. Additionally, your details will be added to the online auctioneer register, solidifying your status as a registered auctioneer in New Zealand.

Unsuccessful Application: In cases where your application is not successful, MBIE will not leave you in the dark. They will swiftly notify you within a mere 10 days from the decision date, providing a clear explanation for the refusal. This feedback will shed light on any areas that need improvement, allowing you to consider your next steps.