How to shop smarter
Practical strategies to save money, spot misleading marketing, compare prices and make informed everyday purchases.
7 things we think are a waste of money
Bait advertising in New Zealand explained
8 little ways I’ve wasted money this week, and you may have, too
Don't waste your money on extended warranties
8 food claims you should ignore
I’m Consumer’s tech expert – here are 6 products I’d never buy
5 viral trends to be wary of
4 reasons why fabric softeners are a waste of money
Loyalty cards: which are trash - and which are worth it?
Your rights when shopping
Understand your legal protections when buying goods—including refunds, returns, warranties and what to do if something goes wrong.
Consumer Guarantees Act
We explain what the Act covers, your rights, and what to do if you think your rights have been breached.
Public holiday surcharges
How much can a business charge as a surcharge on public holidays?
The end of unfair gift card expiry dates is finally here
We campaigned hard for gift card expiry dates to be fairer – now law changes mean they finally have to carry at least a 3-year expiry date.
Can shops charge a return fee?
Learn when a retailer can charge you return fees in New Zealand and when it can’t.
Latest everyday shopping news & articles
Shopping tips, price trends, product safety alerts and consumer issues affecting NZ shoppers.
8 of the worst products we've tested
Learn why you should avoid these 8 dud products if you see them on sale – you’ll only be disappointed if you buy them.
Trade Me or Marketplace – what’s the best way to sell your stuff online?
The pros and cons of using Trade Me or Marketplace for on-selling unwanted gifts.
Your wins: a crooked couch refund battle with Freedom Furniture
How the purchase of a new couch turned into a year-long saga for our member as she struggled to get Freedom Furniture to replace a faulty product.
Parallel imported products: what to know before you buy
Parallel importers buy genuine branded products overseas, ship them into New Zealand and sell them to local consumers without permission from the manufacturer. It’s completely legal and very widespread.