Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003

Introduction

You could also call this:

"Rules to Keep You Safe When Borrowing Money"

Illustration for Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003

This Act is to protect you when you borrow money or buy something on credit. It helps you understand what you are getting into when you sign a credit contract. You will know what you have to pay and when. The Act also helps you if you are having trouble paying back the money you borrowed. It makes sure the person lending you money is fair and honest. They have to tell you everything you need to know before you sign the contract. The Act says what information the lender must give you before you sign a credit contract. This includes how much you will pay and when you have to pay it. You can also ask for changes to the contract if you are having trouble paying. The Act protects you from unfair contracts and unfair behaviour by lenders. It gives you rights if the lender wants to take back something you bought on credit. You can get help if you think the contract is unfair or if the lender is being unfair. The lender must follow rules about interest charges and fees. They must also tell you about any changes to the contract. You have the right to seek independent legal advice when you are buying back land.

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View the original legislation for this page at https://legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1986/0120/latest/link.aspx?id=DLM211511.

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1: Title, or

"About Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance in New Zealand"

Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003

Reprint as at:
2026-01-24
Assent:
2003-10-13
Commencement:
see section 2

The Parliamentary Counsel Office has made editorial and format changes to this version using the powers under subpart 2 of Part 3 of the Legislation Act 2019.

Note 4 at the end of this version provides a list of the amendments included in it.

This Act is administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment.