.nz Dispute Resolution Scheme – Annual Report release 

Speed as a baseline

In today’s online digital environment, .nz domain names are valuable, active, commercial assets.  

When disputes arise, resolution needs to move at the pace of commerce — not the pace of traditional legal processes. Businesses need certainty quickly. 

This report highlights how binding outcomes can be reached in a fraction of the time typically associated with Court proceedings.  

On average, expert determination under the scheme results in a decision within 6 weeks from start to finish. In most cases, the .nz domain name is transferred to the claimant. 

Mediations are typically completed within two weeks and allow for an agreed outcome. 

While mediation needs both parties to agree to participate, expert determination provides a binding outcome regardless of whether the other party participates. 

“Domain names are often critical business assets, so when disputes arise it’s important that parties have access to processes that are timely, practical and fit for purpose. The Scheme is designed to provide accessible pathways to resolution, within a commercially realistic time frame.” Barbara Pearse, Domain Name Commissioner 

The scheme is also accessible and cost-effective: mediation is free to the parties, funded by the Domain Name Commission. For expert determination, the claimant pays the fixed fee (currently $2,000 plus GST). 

Accessibility is further supported by culturally responsive approaches, ensuring that processes are not only efficient and cost-effective but also appropriate to the environment in which disputes arise. 

The 2025/26 Annual Report demonstrates that the scheme performed strongly over the financial year, providing certainty to parties quickly so that business can continue. 

The report also includes interesting case studies that provide insights into the types of issues that can be addressed through the scheme. 

Read the full Annual Report → https://dnc.org.nz/assets/DocumentLibrary/NZDRC-.nz-Dispute-Resolution-Scheme-report-2025-26.pdf 

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