Legal Insights > Litigation
From Toasters to Planes: How the Consumer Guarantees Act Protects Your Purchases in NZ
Imagine buying something expensive – perhaps even a small plane – and mid-flight the engine fails! You escape with your life by a whisker.
Under New Zealand’s Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA), your consumer rights are protected even for high-value purchases bought for personal or household use. The law ensures that goods and services must be safe, fit for purpose and last a reasonable time, giving you legal recourse if products fail.
Corban Revell Litigation Lawyer Ritvik Roop explains, “Many people assume the Consumer Guarantees Act only applies to everyday items like fridges or phones, but it actually covers any goods or services bought for personal use, no matter the value. Even unusual or high-value purchases are protected.”
“Whether it is your laptop, car, or another high-value product, the CGA is designed to protect you when things go wrong.”
What the Consumer Guarantees Act Covers
The CGA applies to all goods and services purchased for personal, domestic or household use, with no upper value limit. Key guarantees include:
- Safety: Products must not pose a danger when used as intended
- Fit for purpose: They must do what they are meant to do
- Durability: They should last a reasonable amount of time, considering their price and description
Examples of CGA Protection in Action
- Appliances: A fridge stops cooling soon after purchase
- Cars: An engine fails unexpectedly
- Tech: A brand-new laptop keeps crashing
- High-value purchases: Boats, recreational vehicles, or other luxury items
In each scenario, the CGA may allow you to request repair, replacement or a full refund.
Steps to Take if a Product Fails
- Keep documentation, including receipts, warranties and photos of defects
- Contact the seller and explain the fault while requesting a remedy under the CGA
- Understand your rights; you may be entitled to repair, replacement or a full refund under NZ consumer law
- Seek professional guidance for high-value or unusual items
“High-value or unusual items can make consumer claims more complex, and a small mistake can cause unnecessary delays. Getting professional guidance ensures your rights are protected and the process is handled correctly,” says Ritvik.
Why Expert Guidance Matters
Even with strong legal protections, disputes can be tricky, particularly for high-value purchases or unusual claims. At Corban Revell, we help clients:
- Understand the CGA and its scope in NZ consumer law
- Navigate disputes efficiently and avoid delays
- Protect investments and consumer rights
- Achieve remedies without unnecessary stress
The Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) is more than fine print; it is real protection for every purchase, big or small.
Reach out to Ritvik Roop and the Litigation Team at Corban Revell Lawyers for expert guidance on goods and services protection and CGA disputes.