Have you bought something recently which is faulty in some way, or maybe it’s broken down after only a very short time? Your rights to have it repaired or replaced are covered under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
The Act covers almost all goods (new and second-hand) and services you would normally buy from a commercial entity. Items the Act does not cover includes houses and private sales (e.g. through Trade Me from a private individual).
One very important point to note is that retailers cannot contract out of the Act. It’s also worth noting that the Extended Warranty that many retailers try to sell you is offering no more protection than you’re already entitled to under consumer law, your home and contents insurance, or the manufacturer’s warranty. In some cases, the extended warranty offers less cover than you’re entitled to under the law. For more information on Extended Warranties click here: https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/extended-warranties
Consumer NZ is an organisation which has been in operation since 1959, they provide consumers with a wide range of consumer protection advice and information. They have written an excellent article which is easy to read and it takes you through your consumer rights for when something goes wrong. Go to: https://www.consumer.org.nz/articles/consumer-guarantees-act
Consumer NZ are very willing to help if you have any concerns about a purchase, their office hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday and they may be contacted on 0800 266 786, or you can email them on info@consumer.org.nz
The Government has also produced information for consumers to explain how the Consumer Guarantees Act works – go to: https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/consumer-laws/consumer-guarantees-act/
If you are particularly interested in your rights when you buy on-line here is another great article: https://www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/ways-to-buy-and-pay/online-shopping/
Other useful links: