New Disclosure Rules Make It Easier For Kiwis To Understand And Compare Telco Plans
by NZ Telecommunications Forum - TCF · SCOOPChoosing a telecommunications plan should become simpler for New Zealand consumers following the introduction of an updated industry Product Disclosure Code designed to improve the way providers present information about their services.
The New Zealand Telecommunications Forum (TCF) has released an updated Product Disclosure Code that introduces stronger requirements for how telecommunications providers communicate information about residential plans to consumers. The Code establishes a more consistent approach to product information, helping consumers better understand, compare and evaluate telecommunications services.
Whether consumers are choosing broadband, mobile or bundled telecommunications services, clear information plays an increasingly important role in helping households find the plan that best suits their needs and budget.
The updated Code builds on industry work already underway to improve transparency and consistency across the telecommunications sector. It introduces enhanced requirements for Product Descriptions and Plan Cards, including clearer presentation of pricing information and key plan features.
TCF Chief Executive Paul Brislen says the changes are about making it easier for consumers to make informed decisions.
"Telecommunications services are an essential part of everyday life, but comparing plans can sometimes be difficult when providers present information in different ways."
"Consumers want straightforward information about what they're buying, what they're paying for and how different plans compare. These updates help deliver clearer, more consistent information that supports better decision-making."
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The changes follow guidelines published by the Commerce Commission and reflect ongoing industry efforts to improve the customer experience and strengthen consumer confidence in the telecommunications market. The updated Code supports a more consistent approach across providers while allowing consumers to more easily identify the information that matters most when comparing products.
Brislen says transparency benefits both consumers and the wider market.
"When consumers can easily understand and compare products, competition works more effectively. Clear information helps build trust and gives people greater confidence that they are choosing the right service for their needs."
The Product Disclosure Code sets minimum standards for how participating providers disclose information about residential telecommunications plans, including the use of consistent terminology and standardised information formats.
The updated Code also lays the foundation for future enhancements as telecommunications services continue to evolve and consumer expectations change.
The revised Product Disclosure Code and supporting templates are available on the TCF website.
About the TCF
The NZ Telecommunications Forum (TCF) was established in 2002.It plays a vital role in the telecommunications industry in New Zealand, collaboratively developing key industry standards and codes of practice that underpin the country’s digital economy.Our objective is to actively foster cooperation among the telecommunications industry’s participants, to enable the efficient provision of regulated and non-regulated telecommunications services.
TCF Members: 2degrees, AWACS, Chorus, Connexa, Devoli, Enable Networks, FortySouth, Kordia, Lightwire, Mercury, Northpower Fibre, One NZ, Spark, Symbio Networks, Tuatahi First Fibre, Vector Fibre. Hourua Limited is also an Associate Member of TCF.
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