Skip to main content

Changing sponsors

Why sponsor changes happen​

Sponsor changes are common — a manufacturer may switch its NZ distributor, a distributor may be acquired, or a Sponsor may decide to stop acting for a particular manufacturer. Whenever the entity legally responsible for a device in New Zealand changes, the WAND entries must be transferred.

Cooperation is required

Changing sponsors requires the cooperation of both the outgoing (incumbent) and incoming Sponsor. It cannot be done unilaterally by either party. Manufacturers should plan for this and include WAND transfer obligations in their Sponsor agreements.

The transfer process​

WAND does not have an automatic transfer mechanism. The process works as follows:

Step 1 — Outgoing Sponsor marks entries obsolete​

The incumbent Sponsor must log in to WAND and mark all relevant device notifications as obsolete in their Sponsor account. This removes the entries from their active portfolio.

Step 2 — Incoming Sponsor re-notifies​

Once entries are marked obsolete by the outgoing Sponsor, the incoming Sponsor submits new WAND notifications for each device in their own account. They will need all the required device information (GMDN code, classification, manufacturer details, etc.) — typically provided by the manufacturer.

Step 3 — 30-day timeline applies​

The incoming Sponsor must complete their new notifications within 30 calendar days of becoming Sponsor. The clock starts from the date the Sponsor agreement is effective.

Outgoing Sponsor obligations​

The outgoing Sponsor remains legally responsible for all devices up until the date the new Sponsor takes over. This includes:

  • Any adverse events involving the device that occurred during the outgoing Sponsor's tenure
  • Any WAND updates that were due but not yet made
  • Cooperation with Medsafe on any outstanding investigations

Incoming Sponsor obligations​

From the date of taking over, the incoming Sponsor assumes full responsibility:

  • Submit new WAND notifications within 30 days
  • Obtain and verify all technical documentation and conformity evidence from the manufacturer
  • Ensure they understand all post-market obligations for the devices

Practical tips​

  • Address WAND in the distribution agreement — specify who is responsible for WAND and what happens if the relationship ends
  • Request a WAND portfolio list from the outgoing Sponsor before the transition to avoid gaps
  • Allow lead time — WAND transfer requires coordination between two parties and can take longer than expected if the outgoing Sponsor is uncooperative