Last year, there was a scam targeting small business owners. Although we were not a part of this last year, it seems they are at it again. Have a look at the letter we received here 2016 0516 NZ Companies - The Corporate Portal.pdf.

The scam comes in the form of a reasonably well-presented letter from "New Zealand Companies – The Corporate Portal". The letter threatens removal of your company due to incomplete company details and advises you to update your records online free of charge. 

However, if you wish to add further information, you are required to fill in the attached form (which has been conveniently prepopulated with your business details). Little do many know, that by completing and returning the form, you are signing up to a $1,411 annual subscription with a basic online directory, for at least three years. According to the Commerce Commission, once you sign up, the terms and conditions make it difficult to cancel and The Corporate Portal reserves the right to increase the annual fee without consultation with you.

The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) recommends reporting letters from The Corporate Portal to www.theorb.org.nz.

If you are unsure about the authenticity of any correspondence you have received, contact our office for advice. 

PKF Poutsma Lemon Limited

Kerikeri Office