Straight answers about .nz dropcatching.
Dropcatching (also called a backorder) is registering a domain name at the exact moment it’s deleted from the registry and becomes available again. Desirable domains are typically snapped up within moments of release, so catching one reliably requires automated systems - that’s what we provide.
$32.99 NZD all-up per successful catch: $30.00 for the first year's domain registration plus our $2.99 catching fee. If we don't get the domain, you pay nothing. There are no signup fees, subscriptions or deposits. Prices don't currently include GST as we are not GST registered.
You pay nothing and we tell you straight away. Our average catch rate is over 98%, but when multiple professional catchers race for the same name, someone has to lose. If we do, there’s no charge - no catch, no fee.
No. Every account runs on a balance: place orders freely, and the $32.99 charge goes on your account only after a successful catch. You settle by bank transfer within 14 days of a catch. We extend this credit so you never pay for something you haven't received.
Every order is reviewed by our team before it’s locked in - we check the domain’s registry status and screen for problems (reserved names, obvious errors, abuse). This happens within 24 hours, usually faster, and you’ll get a confirmation email the moment it’s approved.
It depends where it is in its lifecycle. After a .nz domain expires or is cancelled it enters a 90-day pending release (redemption) period. When that ends, the registry releases it in its nightly release window. If the domain you order is still active, your order simply waits - it stays live until the domain drops, however long that takes.
Yes - during the 90-day pending release period the original registrant can reinstate the name at any time. If that happens, your catch order simply remains active in case it lapses again in future, or you can cancel it (free, of course).
You'll get a success email straight away and the $32.99 charge ($30 registration + $2.99 catching fee) is added to your account. We then contact you to arrange handover, transferring the domain into your name with your preferred .nz registrar. You become the registrant, subject to the standard .nz Rules.
No - catch orders are exclusive. Once an order for a domain is active with us, nobody else can place one for the same name. It’s strictly first come, first served, which is why we suggest not sitting on the fence.
Any currently-registered domain in the open .nz namespace: .nz, .co.nz, .net.nz, .org.nz, .gen.nz, .ac.nz, .school.nz, .geek.nz and .kiwi.nz. We can’t catch moderated extensions (like .govt.nz or .iwi.nz) or names the registry has reserved. If a domain is already available, you don’t need us - just register it at any registrar!
No. We’re .nz specialists - it’s all we do, and it’s why our catch rate is what it is.
Yes, free of charge, any time before the domain enters final processing for release day. After that point the attempt is committed and can’t be recalled - but remember, you still only pay if we succeed.
By internet banking (bank transfer) using the account details and reference on your invoice email and billing page. Payment is due within 14 days of a successful catch.
Yes. Once a domain completes its pending release period it’s removed from the register and anyone may register it, first in first served, under the .nz Rules. Catching services compete in that open window. The caught domain is registered fully in accordance with InternetNZ’s processes and transferred to you as registrant.
Send us a message - a human (a New Zealand one, even) will get back to you.