Finding flexibility with xmas gifts

Around this time of year, many Kiwis are scratching their heads, wondering what to get for those final ‘‘hard-to-buy-for’’ family and friends. Sometimes this is even harder because it needs to be light enough to post, without adding significantly to the cost.

Because posting money is prohibited in New Zealand, a gift card is often chosen instead. But gift cards aren’t the same as money. Cards usually have an expiry date, and the business doesn’t have to give change if the item costs less that the voucher.

Recently, Consumer NZ encouraged New Zealand businesses to remove or extend the expiry dates. Many businesses have done so, while others have extended the time limit.

Remember to use your vouchers as soon as you can. Some have short time limits, and if a business goes under, they’re worthless, as many Dick Smith customers discovered last year.

Prezzy Cards offered by NZ Post are different. They can be used at a wide variety of outlets, and work like a pre-loaded credit card. Any balance unspent is forfeited on the expiry date.

Prezzy Cards cost $5.95 ($5.50 online, plus additional credit card fees). It is more secure because you can lock the card with a 4-digit pin, then text or email the number to the recipient. Of course, you can also use internet banking to transfer money between accounts and post a card or letter explaining what you’ve done. Some of our younger folk may never have received a letter in their mailbox.

You may be surprised at the wide variety of items which are either prohibited or restricted within the postal system. Obviously dangerous items are a category on their own. Check the IATA website for info.

Prohibited items include: credit cards, camphor, jewellery, batteries, (watch those toys), unused stamps, perfume, first aid kits, vouchers, gift cards, tickets for games of chance and event tickets. Some of these are able to be couriered, not posted. (NZ Post’s website has full list of 87 prohibited items, or call 0800 501 501.)

Although it’s annoying having to disclose what’s in your box of gifts on the declaration form, it’s a criminal offence not to be accurate. As well as checking for prohibited goods, your information is used for valuation and compensation if the parcel is damaged or lost.

Ever wondered how we discover such a variety of information? Join our friendly team of volunteers in 2017 and we’ll show you! Call us for an info pack about what’s involved in finding answers to clients’ questions.

Training starts early March. Citizens Advice Bureau Nelson Tasman 9 Paru Paru Rd. Phone: 5482117, 0800367 222. Email: nelsontasman@cab.org.nz Website www.cab.org.nz