Consumer Guarantees Act Complaint Letter NZ – Free Template
Use this free consumer guarantees act letter (New Zealand): fill it in online, download it as Word or PDF, and follow our step-by-step guide – where to send it, whether it needs notarizing, what to attach and mistakes to avoid.
| Country | 🇳🇿 New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Document type | Consumer & contracts |
| Format | Word, PDF & fill in online |
| Cost | Free |
| Time to complete | about 5 minutes |
| Notarization | Not required |
What is this letter for?
Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, goods must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose and match their description, and services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If they are not, you can ask the seller for a repair, replacement or refund depending on how serious the problem is.
Where do you send it?
Send it to the business by email or post.
Does it need to be notarized?
Not required. No witness or JP is needed: sign the letter yourself (an email is usually fine) and keep proof of when it was sent.
What you need before you start
- Proof of purchase
- Description of the fault
- Remedy requested
How to use this template
- Click each yellow field inside the letter and type your details directly (Enter jumps to the next field).
- Read the text through; the “Edit” button lets you change any sentence.
- Click “Word”, “PDF” or “Copy”, then sign and send.
Free template : consumer guarantees act letter
Your full name
Street address
Suburb, City Postcode
Phone | Email
Today’s date
Customer Service Manager
Business name
Business address
Re: Complaint under the Consumer Guarantees Act – product / service
Dear Recipient name,
On Date I purchased product / service from you for $Price. Describe the fault and when it appeared.
I believe this breaches the guarantee of acceptable quality under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993. I request a repair / replacement / refund within number working days.
If this is not resolved, I may take the matter to the Disputes Tribunal.
Kind regards,
Your full name
⚠️ Disclaimer: this template is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Always check the requirements of the organization you are writing to before sending it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Contacting only the manufacturer.
- ❌ No proof of purchase.
- ❌ Waiting too long.
Tips before you send it
- Complain to the seller.
- Act within a reasonable time.
- The Disputes Tribunal handles smaller claims.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a refund under the CGA?
Yes, if the fault is serious (a ‘failure of substantial character’) or the seller fails to fix it.
Do warranties replace my CGA rights?
No, your CGA rights apply regardless of any warranty.
Where do I send this letter (consumer guarantees act letter)?
Send it to the business by email or post.
Does this letter (consumer guarantees act letter) need to be notarized?
Not required – No witness or JP is needed: sign the letter yourself (an email is usually fine) and keep proof of when it was sent.