Managing .nz and .co.nz Domains on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- .nz and .co.nz domains can be registered or connected to Squarespace but not transferred in
- These domains cannot be locked for security like other domain types
- No grace period exists for cancellations or refunds once registered
- Whois privacy only works for individual registrants, not businesses
- Different registrars have different renewal periods after expiration
- These domains are excluded from Squarespace's free domain offers
If you're targeting a New Zealand audience, a .nz or .co.nz domain can boost your local credibility. These domains work well with Squarespace, but they come with some specific quirks you need to know about.
Registration and Connection
You can register a new .nz or .co.nz domain directly through Squarespace or connect one you already own from another registrar. The connection process works the same as other domains.
However, you cannot transfer these domains into Squarespace from another registrar. If you want to manage everything in one place, you'll need to keep your domain with your current registrar and connect it to your Squarespace site.
Domain Security Limitations
Here's something that catches people off guard: .nz and .co.nz domains cannot be locked. Most domains can be locked to prevent unauthorized transfers, but this security feature isn't available for New Zealand domains.
This means you need to be extra careful about your account security at your domain registrar. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available.
Expiration and Renewal
Different registrars handle expired .nz and .co.nz domains differently:
Tucows registrar:
- 45-day renewal period after expiration
- 90-day redemption period after that (with additional fees)
Key-Systems registrar:
- Around 90 days to renew directly from your dashboard
Set calendar reminders for your domain expiration date. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your domain entirely or paying hefty redemption fees.
Privacy and Business Registration
Whois privacy for .nz domains only works if you register as an individual. If you register as a business or include organization information, your details will be publicly visible in the Whois database.
To get privacy protection as a business owner, register the domain under your personal name and leave the organization field blank during registration.
No Grace Period
Unlike some other domains, there's no grace period for .nz and .co.nz domain registrations. Once you complete the registration, you cannot cancel it for a refund. Make sure you really want the domain before hitting that purchase button.
FAQs
What happens if my .nz domain expires?
Check which registrar manages your domain. Tucows gives you 45 days to renew normally, then 90 days with redemption fees. Key-Systems gives around 90 days total. After these periods, the domain becomes available for anyone to register.
Can I hide my business information on a .nz domain?
Only if you register as an individual without including any organization details. Business registrations are always public.
Are .nz domains included in Squarespace's free domain promotions?
No, these domains are excluded from free domain offers.
Why can't I transfer my .nz domain to Squarespace?
Squarespace doesn't currently support transfers for .nz and .co.nz domains. You can only register new ones or connect existing ones.
Jargon Buster
ccTLD: Country Code Top-Level Domain. These are domains like .nz that are specific to a country or territory.
Domain Locking: A security feature that prevents unauthorized domain transfers. Not available for .nz domains.
Whois Privacy: A service that hides your personal information from the public Whois database where domain registration details are stored.
Redemption Period: The final chance to recover an expired domain, usually with additional fees.
Wrap-up
.nz and .co.nz domains are solid choices for New Zealand businesses, but they need more careful management than typical domains. The lack of domain locking and specific renewal rules mean you need to stay on top of security and expiration dates. Plan your registration carefully since there's no grace period for changes of mind.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace domain management? Join Pixelhaze Academy for comprehensive guides and ongoing support.