What does it mean for a product to 'match the description'?

For a product to 'match the description' means that the goods must conform to the details and specifications as presented by the seller. This requirement is a fundamental principle under New Zealand Consumer Law, particularly within the context of the Consumer Guarantees Act. When a seller provides a description of a product, whether through advertising, labeling, or verbal communication, they create an expectation for the consumer regarding the nature and quality of the product.

If a product does not match the description given by the seller, it may be considered defective and can lead to remedies available to the consumer, such as refunds, exchanges, or repairs. This principle ensures that consumers can rely on the representations made by sellers and protects them from misleading conduct.

The other options do not align with the fundamental expectations set by consumer protection laws. Branding or price does not determine whether a product matches its description; rather, it is the actual characteristics of the goods that matter relating to what was promised to the consumer.