Intellectual property (IP) refers to legal rights that protect creations, innovations, brands and other forms of intellectual output. IP is important in IT because organisations create software, websites, logos, designs, algorithms, written content and other digital products. The Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) identifies several types of IP, including trade marks, patents, designs, copyright, plant variety rights and geographical indications (IPONZ, 2026a).
• Copyright – protects original creative works such as writing, graphics, photographs, websites and computer programs.
• Patents – can protect qualifying inventions and give the owner a legal right to stop others from making, using or selling the invention for the patent term.
• Trademarks – distinguish goods or services and can include words, logos, shapes, colors, sounds and other signs.
• Registered designs – protect the visual appearance or design of products where registration requirements are met.
• Trade secrets/confidential information – may be protected through confidentiality arrangements and other legal mechanisms, although protection works differently from registered IP rights.
• Encourages businesses and individuals to create new products and services.
• Helps creators and organizations control how their work is used.
• Can provide commercial value and competitive advantage.
• Helps businesses build recognizable brands through trademarks.
• Supports investment because valuable inventions and creative works can have legal protection.
Māori culture and traditional knowledge are important taonga in Aotearoa New Zealand. IPONZ states that mātauranga Māori includes knowledge, world views, language, creativity and cultural practices originating from Māori ancestors. New Zealand’s IP system includes measures that take Māori interests into account, including provisions relating to patents and trademarks. However, responsible digital practice should also recognize that legal ownership and cultural authority are not always the same thing.
• Do not use Māori cultural symbols, designs, names or knowledge simply because they are available online.
• Consider whether the relevant iwi, hapū, whānau or other community has an interest in the material.
• Use culturally appropriate permissions and attribution where required.
• Avoid modifying or commercializing culturally significant material in ways that could be offensive or inappropriate.
• Where digital products use Māori language, cultural content or mātauranga Māori, involve appropriate Māori knowledge holders when possible.
A web designer wants to use a traditional Māori design on a company logo. The designer should not assume that the design is simply a free graphic. The designer should research its cultural meaning, identify whether there are relevant Māori rights or interests, obtain appropriate permission where needed, and make sure the final use is respectful and appropriate.