What is GST?

Goods and services tax, or GST, is generally charged at 15% on taxable supplies in New Zealand. A GST-registered business usually charges GST on taxable sales, files GST returns, and may claim GST on qualifying business purchases when it holds the required records.

Not every supply is standard-rated. Some supplies are zero-rated at 0%, some are exempt, and private or non-business costs do not automatically create a GST claim. A purchase from a supplier that is not GST registered does not include GST to claim.

A GST-registered business must keep complete taxable-supply information and file a return for every taxable period, including a nil period. The correct treatment depends on the supply, parties, location, evidence and accounting basis.