Register your baby now
The easiest way to register your baby is on SmartStart.
You can also apply for a number of different support services at the same time, including:
- Best Start payments
- an IRD number for your baby
- updating your Working for Families Tax Credits for your baby
- adding your baby to your Ministry of Social Development benefit
- ordering your baby’s birth certificate (this comes at a cost – but is optional).
To register your baby, head to SmartStart.
Do I have to register my baby?
Yes, it’s a legal requirement.
It’s also the first official step in confirming your baby as a New Zealand citizen.
More information
For more information about different circumstances (e.g. you don’t want to name the baby’s other parent, you’re adopting the baby out), head to Govt.nz .
More information
Register for Plunket services
Registering your baby's birth is different from registering or enrolling with Whānau Āwhina Plunket. You can sign up or register for Well Child Tamariki Ora services with Plunket on our enrolment form.
