Shoppers are urged to avoid any unreasonable surcharges they spot this Christmas.
Since December 1, new caps on interchange fees have taken effect.
This brings cost savings for businesses, but Consumer NZ spokesperson Jessica Walker said her organisation fears these benefits aren’t always reaching shoppers.
She said surcharges should now not exceed 1.2% or 1.3%.
“Anything close to 2% is likely to be excessive,” Walker said.
“We want consumers to be on the lookout.”
She noted that New Zealand guidelines require retailers to offer surcharge-free payment options, like cash or chip-and-PIN or swipe cards. Shoppers concerned about excessive surcharges should simply switch to an alternative method, she added.
“If you see a fee of 2% or more, swerve it.”
Walker also cited instances where surcharges weren’t properly disclosed.
She advised shoppers to ask retailers upfront about any surcharges and their exact amount.
“Businesses are going to be saving money. We understand the fees are now comparable with some of the lowest in the world, so it’s only fair that the savings are passed on to consumers.”
“Anything that can be done to protect consumers is a good thing. This is something we want to bring to the public consciousness if they are spending more over coming weeks and months.”