Stage one of Land Information New Zealand's LandOnline  project is now in operation in all land districts in New Zealand.

Auckland, the final region to get LandOnline , is now 'live'. Some delays may occur in searching and registration at the Auckland Registry while teething issues are dealt with.

LandOnline  is the electronic capture of all property records for New Zealand (both survey and title). Under the automated system, there is a single electronic register that is the definitive legal record. Land Information New Zealand advises that the fundamental principles of the land transfer system remain unaltered. The register is simply now electronic, rather than paper.

There are two phases in this operation. Stage one involves the conversion of existing titles and paper records to electronic data. Stage two involves a fully automated registration system without paper documents.

One of the most obvious changes under LandOnline  is in the visual appearance of certificates of title. Under LandOnline , titles only show current interests such as the registered proprietor and current easements and charges. Existing titles will be replaced with new LandOnline  titles if and when they are lodged with Land Information New Zealand for registration. The former title will be destroyed unless its return is specifically requested.

LandOnline  is expected to result in less paper work, reduced registration costs and increased efficiency. Whether such ideals come to fruition will be monitored over the next few years.

This is a general summary only and should not be taken as a substitute for specific advice.

For further information please contact Michelle Hill, solicitor
Auckland
michelle.hill@phillipsfox.com
or visit LandOnline

Web site: Phillips Fox