New Zealand Creative Commons [Press Release]

In my view licensing of content is not about locking the words down with DRM*, copyrights or patents (as we know "words want to be free"). It should be about letting people use your content in as many ways as you allow. The Creative Commons licenses are about letting people know HOW they can use your content - see mine

Creative Commons was originally based in the USofA and so it held little actual bite here in New Zealand. Also, it wasn't exactly plain English. And so a bunch of fine people have created the New Zealand release of Creative Commons - here is a their press release from a week or so ago (apologies for sitting on it for a while, busy, busy, busy)

Press Release

New Zealanders forgo full copyright with Creative Commons

Creative Commons Aotearoa New Zealand has just launched a dynamic web project that offers a new approach to copyright. The CCANZ website allows New Zealanders to choose “some rights reserved” copyright for their own creative works. The international Creative Commons movement towards internet-friendly copyright is embraced in more than 40 countries and its generic licences have been recently tailored to New Zealand’s legal jurisdiction.

Creative Commons licences encourage sharing. Every CC licence requires that users credit the owner properly, but licence holders can choose other restrictions too. Some licences do not allow commercial use or derivative versions.

With a sharp rise in citizen authorship and online sharing, Creative Commons licences are essential tools for anyone wishing to free up their creations for the benefit of online fans. The terms of CC licences are simple to read, and will usually appear in the form of a hyperlink alongside licensed work.

Creative Commons licences are designed to be accessible and the website provides helpful information and encourages users to share their experiences. “New Zealand licences are written in plain English, making them easier to understand and use” says Jane Hornibrook from CCANZ.

Kiwis can now showcase their licensed music, creative writing, photos and movies through the website.

CCANZ is a project of Te Whāinga Aronui The Council for the Humanities.

To find out more about Creative Commons Aotearoa New Zealand, create a profile for yourself or choose your own licence, visit www.creativecommons.org.nz

For any additional material, information or CCANZ related interviews, please contact Jane Hornibrook on 027 6198139 or janehornibrook@gmail.com