InternetNZ welcomes approach of new top level domains

InternetNZ welcomes approach of new top level domains

Media release - 29 May 2013

InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) congratulates all applicants that have progressed their application for new top level domain name extensions, which will lead later this year to wider choices for domain name users in New Zealand and around the world.

This week, hundreds of new Generic Top Level Domains passed the initial evaluation stage with ICANN (the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers). One with particular relevance to New Zealand is ‘.kiwi’. Other examples include .food, .bank, .news, .music, etc.

While several stages remain in the process before the new gTLDs are approved, and final contracts are yet to be signed, the new domains seems likely to enter the market later this year.

InternetNZ President Frank March says one of InternetNZ's guiding Objects is to promote the competitive provision of Internet access, services and facilities. This extends to domain name markets in all manifestations.

"Internet users in New Zealand already have many choices when it comes to selecting a domain name extension, including within the .nz domain where there are 15 'second level' names including .co.nz, .org.nz, .maori.nz, .net.nz and .kiwi.nz.

"We strongly believe in maintaining and expanding choice for domain name registrants. The addition of new gTLDs including .kiwi later this year will extend people's choice, and we look forward to the beginning of an exciting new era for domain name markets globally," he says.

ENDS

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