InternetNZ retires NZRS brand to streamline operations

InternetNZ and NZRS, the registry and operator for .nz domain names, have announced that they have merged as of April 1.

Previously, InternetNZ deputy chief executive Andrew Cushen says, NZRS was a wholly owned subsidiary of InternetNZ but the company has decided to retire the NZRS brand and integrate it into its parent company in order to streamline operations.

InternetNZ group chief executive Jordan Carter says the team plans to build on the strengths across the group, InternetNZ, NZRS and DNCL, to deliver more for the New Zealand internet community and to face the inevitable challenges as the potential of the internet grows.

"The integration of InternetNZ and NZRS is an important shift within the internet space in New Zealand," he says.

"The change to our structure is designed to slimline our governance and (enable us) to deliver more for the internet and for New Zealanders. Our purpose is to support the benefits of the internet for all New Zealanders. This change will help us further that goal and we're excited about it.

InternetNZ has a history of outspoken advocacy, representing the people and helping to implement policy.

"The work InternetNZ does is important, and as the internet plays a bigger role in all our lives, our work will continue to reflect that. We speak on behalf of New Zealanders who use the internet, and the services we offer are essential for Kiwis who want to make the most of a free and open internet," Carter says.

Since its inception, over the past 20 years, the not-for-profit InternetNZ has delivered service to the public through the management of the .nz domain, returning over $2 million to the community through grants programmes, influencing a range of public and technical policy debates, and supporting and hosting a wide range of community events.

It has also contributed on the regional and global stage to the framework of a free and open internet, developing innovative products such as the National Broadband Map, and maintaining a technical research programme.

"I'm not taking these reigns lightly or on my own, we have strong foundations that we will continue to build on," Carter says.

"That's something the whole team is proud of, it's why they turn up in the morning and continue to do the great work they do, often changing lives under the radar. This year, we will bring our organisations together and take a close look at our strategy.

"Our job is to serve our community and customers with leading technology, community support and fresh policy ideas. That will remain our focus."