How does the Commerce Commission support consumers?

The Commerce Commission plays a crucial role in supporting consumers by providing guidance on their rights and responsibilities. This information is essential for consumers to understand the protections available to them under New Zealand law, such as the Consumer Guarantees Act and the Fair Trading Act. By educating consumers about their rights, the Commission empowers them to make informed decisions and take action when they encounter unfair trading practices.

While financial compensation for losses, imposing fines on businesses, and running public awareness campaigns are all relevant activities within the scope of consumer protection, they do not directly address the core function of helping consumers understand their rights and responsibilities. The immediate benefit of providing such guidance is that it fosters a more informed consumer base that can actively participate in the market and seek remedies when necessary.