Freelance Agreement Contract Template for New Zealand

The Freelance Agreement Contract is essential for businesses and organizations in New Zealand engaging independent contractors for professional services. This document is designed to comply with New Zealand's legal framework, including the Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017 and relevant tax legislation. It's particularly important for establishing clear boundaries between contractor and employment relationships, protecting both parties' interests, and ensuring compliance with tax obligations. The agreement covers crucial aspects such as service scope, payment terms, intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and termination provisions, while maintaining flexibility to accommodate various professional services and industry requirements. Use this document when engaging freelancers, consultants, or independent contractors for project-based work or ongoing services where a formal contractor relationship needs to be established.

1. Parties: Identifies the contracting parties - the client and the freelancer, including full legal names and addresses

2. Background: Outlines the context of the agreement and confirms the intention to engage services as an independent contractor

3. Definitions: Defines key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Engagement and Services: Specifies the freelancer's appointment as an independent contractor and outlines the nature of services to be provided

5. Term: Defines the duration of the agreement, including start date and whether fixed-term or ongoing

6. Payment Terms: Details the fees, payment schedule, expenses, and invoicing requirements including GST considerations

7. Contractor Status: Explicitly confirms independent contractor status and not an employment relationship

8. Obligations of the Freelancer: Lists the freelancer's key responsibilities, standards of work, and compliance requirements

9. Obligations of the Client: Outlines the client's responsibilities including provision of information and resources

10. Intellectual Property: Addresses ownership and transfer of intellectual property created during the engagement

11. Confidentiality: Defines confidential information and obligations regarding its protection

12. Termination: Specifies circumstances and process for ending the agreement

13. General Provisions: Standard legal clauses including governing law, dispute resolution, and entire agreement