What is a remedy a consumer can seek if goods were sold with an undisclosed defect?

When goods are sold with an undisclosed defect, a consumer is entitled to seek remedies under the Consumer Guarantees Act in New Zealand. The primary remedy in such situations is the refund of the purchase price. This is because the law ensures that consumers receive goods that are of acceptable quality and fit for purpose. If a defect is not disclosed and impacts the usability or safety of the product, the consumer can justifiably demand a refund, as the goods no longer meet the guarantee standards set out in the legislation.

Choosing a remedy like an exchange for a new product may also be viable in some cases, but the refund is the most direct compensation for receiving defective goods. Other options like free shipping for future purchases or a discount on the next purchase do not directly address the issue of the defect itself and do not provide immediate redress for the loss incurred due to the defective product. Hence, seeking a refund for the purchase price is considered the appropriate and most straightforward remedy in this situation.