While we're plenty glad Nintendo decided to drop friend codes from the Wii U, having Nintendo Network IDs tied to a single console doesn't seem like a great idea. That's an issue folks are now running into, and an entry on the official Wii U FAQ confirms this unfortunate precautionary feature. Nevermind that the console already has several major first-party launch titles focused on cooperative play.

As of now, Nintendo IDs are locked to a single unit, meaning your account can't be accessed from any other Wii U console. Better hope yours doesn't suffer a sudden case of bricking.

The exact entry on the FAQ page reads:

Can I Log Into My Nintendo Network Account on a Different Console?

 

Answer:

• No, you cannot. A Nintendo Network Account can only be used on the console where it was created. In the future, you will be able to use your Nintendo Network Account with future Nintendo consoles and other devices, such as PC's.
• Currently, the Wii U supports up to 12 individual Nintendo Network ID's per console, which enables each member of the family to have his or her own unique identity on the system.

Hey, maybe Nintendo will eventually change their minds and drop this feature down the road. For now, you'll just have to live with it.

Thanks for the tip, nnnddd101010.