Terms of Use

1. Welcome to Pet Rescue NZ

Welcome to **Pet Rescue New Zealand** (hereinafter referred to as "Pet Rescue NZ," "we," "us," or "our"). We operate the website located at www.petrescue.org.nz.

These Terms of Use ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement made between you, whether personally or on behalf of an entity ("you," "user," "owner," or "adopter"), and Pet Rescue NZ. These terms apply to all visitors, users, and others who access or use the Website.

2. Nature of the Service

2.1 A Listing Platform Only

Pet Rescue NZ is a technology-driven listing platform. We provide a digital marketplace and communication hub that allows residents of New Zealand to connect for the purpose of privately rehoming or adopting pets. We provide the technical "infrastructure" for these connections to happen, acting as a neutral intermediary.

2.2 What We Are Not

Pet Rescue NZ is not a party to any agreement between users. It is fundamental that you understand we are not:

• A physical animal shelter, pound, or boarding facility.
• An animal rescue organisation or charity (unless explicitly stated in our About Us section).
• An animal broker, agent, or commercial middleman.
• A provider of veterinary or medical services.
• An investigative or vetting agency for pet owners.

2.3 No Custody or Verification

We never take physical custody, possession, or legal ownership of any animal listed. We do not physically inspect animals or verify the medical history, vaccination status, or temperament of animals listed by third parties. Every listing is the exclusive legal responsibility of the user who posted it.

3. User Eligibility

To ensure the safety of our community and the animals involved, the Website is intended for users who are at least 18 years of age and currently reside in New Zealand. By creating an account, you warrant that you meet these criteria.

You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials. For more information on how we protect your data, please see our Privacy Policy.

4. Specific Obligations for Owners

If you are listing a pet for rehoming, you are bound by the following ethical and legal standards:

4.1 Truth in Advertising

Under the Fair Trading Act 1986, you must not engage in misleading or deceptive conduct. You represent that you are the legal owner of the pet and that all information regarding breed, age, health, and history is accurate. You must disclose any known history of aggression.

4.2 Prohibited Listings

The platform must not be used for commercial livestock trade, illegal breeding, "puppy mills," or rehoming stolen pets. Any user found to be using the platform for commercial profit rather than ethical rehoming will be banned.

4.3 Listing Fees

Any fees paid for Featured or Premium listings are for the provision of the digital advertising space and are non-refundable once the listing has been published.

5. Specific Obligations for Adopters

Adopters acknowledge they are adopting an animal "as is." You agree to conduct your own due diligence, which should include meeting the pet in person and asking for medical records. For tips on safe adoption, visit our FAQ Page.

6. Compliance with New Zealand Law

6.1 Animal Welfare Act 1999

Users must comply with the Animal Welfare Act 1999. We have a zero-tolerance policy for animal cruelty. Suspected cases will be reported to the SPCA or MPI with all available user metadata.

6.2 Dog Control Act 1996

Owners rehoming dogs must ensure compliance with local council registration and microchipping laws. Both parties are responsible for updating the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR).

7. Fair Trading Act 1986 (NZ)

Pet Rescue NZ is a platform provider, not a content creator. Under the Fair Trading Act, you agree that you are solely responsible for your content. Pet Rescue NZ disclaims all liability for representations made by third parties. If you encounter a misleading listing, please use our Contact Form to report it.

8. Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (NZ)

Our service is provided "as is." While we strive for excellence, we do not guarantee 100% uptime or successful outcomes. For users in trade, you agree that the CGA does not apply to your use of our platform as per Section 43 of the Act.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted under New Zealand law, Pet Rescue NZ shall not be liable for any injury, property damage, or veterinary costs resulting from an adoption. Our maximum liability is limited to the amount you paid us in the previous 12 months, or $0 if you used the service for free.

10. User Conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful purpose. We reserve the right to terminate access for any user who harasses others or violates our community standards.

11. Privacy Policy

We take your privacy seriously. Please review our full Privacy Policy to understand how we collect and use your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.

12. Dispute Resolution

Any dispute arising out of your use of the Website shall be governed by New Zealand law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of New Zealand courts.