What must a warranty include to be valid under New Zealand law?

For a warranty to be valid under New Zealand law, it must include specific consumer rights in addition to the legal rights that consumers already possess. This ensures that the warranty provides clear and enforceable protections for the consumer beyond what is guaranteed by existing legislation.

Warranties are intended to offer reassurance to consumers regarding the quality, fitness for purpose, and performance of goods or services. By explicitly stating specific rights, such as the right to repair, replacement, or refund if the product does not meet certain standards, a warranty can enhance consumer confidence and understanding.

The inclusion of consumer rights helps establish expectations about what the consumer can count on if the product or service fails to meet the stated criteria, effectively providing a safety net that goes beyond general assurances or legal requirements. This specificity is essential for clarity in the transaction and assists in resolving any disputes regarding warranty claims.

Importantly, while other options may have elements that are relevant to consumer expectations or industry practices, they do not meet the legal criteria for a valid warranty under the Consumer Guarantees Act and related legislation, which emphasizes the necessity of clearly defined, enforceable rights for the consumer.