New Zealand Car Hire Companies Fined over $40,000

According to reports, 2 Christchurch, New Zealand car hire firms have been fined over NZ$40,000 by the New Zealand Commerce Commission for making false claims. The commission has now vowed to keep a closer eye on immoral organizations.

The travel businesses – Euro Car Rental and Affinity Car Rental New Zealand – were prosecuted for ripping off overseas tourists by making up hire repairs, levying charges not disclosed, claiming that cars belong to the Qualmark program for quality vehicles when they didn’t, promising new models of cars but providing older models and advising customers of damage they did to cars when they didn’t. Both of the companies are run by Gary and Kylee Harris, who pleaded guilty to 18 charges breaching the Fair Trading Act.

The authorities have now been prompted to watch the tourism sector more closely, especially since the country is hosting the Rugby World Cup next year, which will bring tens of thousands of foreigners to New Zealand. Websites will be watched even closer, as many travelers go online to make travel-related decisions.

Kate Morrison, the New Zealand Commerce Commission’s general manager, said that many overseas visitors make the decision on which car hire firm to use way before they arrive in their destination, so it’s important that information on websites is accurate. The image of New Zealand has been harmed by firms that mislead consumers and didn’t compete fairly, she continued. The commission is watching markets that provide services and goods to tourists while they prepare for the Rugby World Cup, she added.