Do not include prefixes which refer to a ship's description (eg. FV, MV), unless you wish the prefix to form part of the ship's registered name. Prefixes specifying a ship's type are not usually included in the registered name.

Do not put quotation marks around the name you enter in the search box.

The spelling of a name can be important. A name which sounds the same but is spelt differently cannot be approved, eg. Sea Breeze and Seebreeze; Cappella and Capella.

The search result will tell you only if the exact name you have entered is available. You cannot view all the names that are registered at a particular time.

Even if your first choice of name is available at the time you search, you must list three names for approval in order of preference in the application form. The Registrar approves names as applications are received so you need to consider that, between the time you search for a name and the Registrar receives your application, the name you have chosen may have been approved for someone else.

A name is not formally approved until the Registrar has received the appropriate application form and fee. Once approved, the name is available for registration for one year from the date of approval.

Names that may NOT be approved include:
names that are likely to be confused with the names of registered ships or ships about to be registered;
offensive names;
names of members of the Royal family;
the name "New Zealand" without a prefix or suffix;
names that falsely suggest a connection with the Royal family, international, national or local Government bodies.