On this page
The service must be operating to change its name or ownership ("change identity").
How to apply#
The current service provider must apply for an amendment to their licence. There is no fee for this.
If you are selling a service or have questions about changing the identity of a service provider, contact your regional office.
The below document has more information about changing the identify of a service provider.
You must also contact your regional office before applying for a licence amendment if:
- your service is not currently operating
- your licence has been suspended
- a 'notice of intention to cancel' has been issued.
Contact our early learning regulation team if you want to change the legal name of your service and are:
- selling multiple services
- a large provider
- the Kindergarten Association.
Email: [email protected]
Change of identity form and statutory declaration#
Fill in the 'EC9 application form to change a service's name or ownership' to:
- sell or transfer ownership of a service to another legal entity
- change the legal name of the service provider
- change the service provider ownership type, for example, change from a sole trader to a company.
If you are buying, selling or transferring ownership of a service, the statutory declaration must be completed by the proposed new operator. It must be submitted at the same time as the EC9 application form.
See more information about making a statutory declaration on the New Zealand Government website.
Making a statutory declaration – New Zealand Government
Send the completed forms to your regional office.
After you apply#
You must continue to operate your service and comply with all regulations.
The application will be processed and assessed within 30 working days.
You must have written evidence of a change of management or sale of your service before we can amend your licence. This is usually provided by a legal representative from both parties. The licence number of the service will not change when there is a change of service provider.
If your application is declined#
You can reapply for a licence amendment if your circumstances change.
You can appeal the decision to a District Court within 14 days after receiving notice that your application was declined.
