The benefits of ship registration

Registration gives a ship some benefits. These benefits depend on the type of registration that a ship has (Part A, or Part B).

Part A registration benefits

Part A registration is mainly for larger commercial vessels however some vessel owners have a choice of registering under either Part A or Part B.

Part A registration:

• provides a ship with New Zealand nationality when it goes on overseas voyages
• protects a ship's name for as long as it is registered
• provides proof of ownership (evidence of title)
• makes it possible to register a mortgage on a vessel
• lasts as long as the ship is New Zealand-owned. It does not end if the ownership changes or if the ship is altered.

Part B registration benefits

Part B registration is mainly for pleasure vessels that need nationality for overseas voyaging

Part B registration:

• provides a ship with New Zealand nationality when it goes on overseas voyages
• protects a ship's name for as long as it is registered
• lasts for 5 years only. It can be renewed at the end of 5 years if there have been no changes to the details on the Certificate of Registration. Registration automatically terminates if there are any changes in the ownership or to the ship.