Renee, who is 13, applied for a job at a local hardware store. She didn't get the job and is convinced she has been discriminated against because of her age.
People under 16 are not protected from discrimination on the grounds of age. Until then, Renee cannot complain to the Human Rights Commission. She can complain on other grounds, such as sexual orientation or disability.
Samuel and Tania, who are both fourth formers, want to attend a free-Tibet rally. Are they allowed to join public demonstrations at this age?
Yes. There is no age restriction on joining public demonstrations or practising religion.
My kids are aged 12 and 10 - can I leave them at home by themselves?
No. Until your children are 14 you can't leave them at home without making reasonable provision for their supervision and care. You will need to arrange a babysitter.
Can I ask my neighbour's daughter Jennifer, who is 14, to babysit?
Generally speaking, 14 is the minimum age at which someone can babysit. However, you must still assess whether Jennifer is reliable and mature enough to look after your kids. And even if she can babysit, it doesn't follow you can leave your kids in her care for, say, the whole weekend.
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $25
Previous: Children and the law
