Recorded Music NZ welcomes extension of Copyright TermMay 27, 2026

Recorded Music New Zealand is today welcoming news that the Government is moving to bolster copyright law and protect some of New Zealand’s most iconic music for longer.

The government has announced that it is moving to extend copyright term from the current 50 to 70 years, bringing New Zealand’s law into line with global standards.

Recorded Music NZ has been advocating for artists and rights holders on this issue for two decades.

Recorded Music NZ CEO, Jo Oliver, says –

“Copyright law powers the music industry and enables artists to be paid for their work. It's great news that this government is finally fixing the unfair anomaly in New Zealand copyright law and giving New Zealand artists and rights holders the same protection as their overseas counterparts. It is crucial that the change is legislated as soon as possible, to ensure our musical heritage is protected and preserved for years to come.”

Recorded Music NZ Board member and recording artist Chris van de Geer says –

“New Zealand music contributes to Aotearoa culturally and economically, and it’s great to see government recognise that artists deserve to be paid for use of their music. As a recording artist I find it completely ludicrous that iconic kiwi albums could be left with no copyright protection especially when they are still being streamed, played on radio and enjoyed in venues across the country. We need to see the extension passed into law as soon as possible to avoid more classic recordings losing their copyright protection.”

The government announcement is available here