On April 1, 2011 came into force a new tax regime for companies, introduced by the Government of New Zealand. Officially named the new type of company Look through company, which can be translated as "you are viewing the company" from the English to look through – see, look past. Perhaps this is not a good name, and may create an impression of the company, which somehow compromised the corporate veil of limited liability. In fact, it's name – just reference to the tax transparency of the legal person. It is expected that the new regime more more "accredit" the jurisdiction of New Zealand as in structuring asset (asset institution that is not located in NC, and in benefit of the people who do not live in NC).
New Zealand is already well established in the provision of such tax "neutral" corporate structures, as offshore trusts and limited liability partnership. However, one of the distinguishing characteristics of New Zealand, is that she is a member of the OECD and therefore differs from the classic 'offshore' financial centers that offer similar solutions. New Zealand also established a strong position in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific region. Distinctive features of the new regime 'Look Through Company' (hereinafter – LTC) – is essentially the same as a traditional limited company Ltd, established in accordance with the Companies Act 1993, but which has different rules of taxation of their income. New or existing shareholders registered in New Zealand companies may choose this option, provided that the company: It is no more than 5 shareholders, all shares carry equal rights and are voting, all shareholders – individuals or managers of the trust.