New Zealand's biggest overhaul to consumer law in 20 years came into force this week bringing major changes for buyers and sellers of goods and services.
Legal and consumer experts predict that more shoppers will save themselves money and ditch extended product warranties, while the need to substantiate claims could see many industries becoming effectively self-policing.
In addition, traders on online auction sites will also now be brought under the new Fair Trading Act and the Consumer Guarantee Act.
"The changes are long overdue and will provide greater protection against unfair practices and dodgy dealers," said Consumer NZ chief executive Sue Chetwin.
One key change is the right to cancel extended warranties within five working days. Mark O'Donnell, an associate commercial lawyer at Sharpe Tudhope, said the new laws meant retailers would also have to explain before consumers purchase a warranty, what extra protections it provided over and above existing consumer rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act.