Class Actions for New Zealand Consumers

Abstract

This article examines the benefits of the class action for New Zealand consumers. It analyses the current operation of the New Zealand class action and recommends significant reform to expand the use of the class action and to give clear specific guidelines on its operation. The author defines a class action, discusses the advantages and concerns of the procedure before dismissing the concerns as overstated. The New Zealand class action court procedure are examined, criticised and suggestions for reform are provided.

Keywords: class, action, new zealand, reform, expand, guidelines, criticism, legislation, court procedure

JEL Classification: K00, K1, K13, K12, K10, K19, K2, K20, K23, K3, K30, K32, K38, K4, K40, K41, K42, K49