Consumer rights
What does the Consumer Guarantees Act usually cover?
When you buy goods or services from a business for personal or household use, NZ law sets minimum guarantees about quality, fitness, and repair options.
In Aotearoa, the Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) is the everyday “safety net” for household shopping. If you buy something from a business for personal or household use, the law expects it to be of acceptable quality, fit for the purpose you were told (or that was clear from the situation), and delivered with reasonable care if it is a service.
Those guarantees sit alongside any store warranty. A warranty can add extras — it does not usually wipe away your CGA rights. Second-hand goods from a business can still be covered, but what is “acceptable” depends on age, price, and what you were told.
This is educational signposting only — not legal advice. For your situation, start with Consumer Protection’s guides and tools, or talk with Community Law / a trusted adviser if things feel stuck.
Calm next moves
- Keep receipts, screenshots, and notes of what the seller promised.
- Say clearly what went wrong and what you want (repair, replacement, or refund).
- Use Consumer Protection’s Consumer Rights Finder if you are unsure where you stand.
Official resources
Always confirm details on the official site — laws and processes can change.
Educational signposting only from the Resilience Programme. Not legal, financial, or medical advice. Updated 2026-07-10.