Physical Address
Ground Floor,
79 Boulcott Street,
Wellington
Postal Address
P O Box 10 675,
Wellington 6143
Telephone
(04) 472 7852 or
0800 ADHELP (0800 234357)
Facsimile
(04) 471 1785
Email
asa@asa.co.nz

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Interpretation

The Codes apply to the entire content of an advertisement, including all words and numbers (spoken and written), visual presentations, music and sound effects.

The conformity of any advertisement with the Codes will be judged primarily in terms of its impact upon the type of person who is likely to be exposed to it.

Where there is any doubt, the interpretation shall be adopted that best serves the purpose and intent of any Code. The Code of Ethics will also provide guidance.

The Advertising Standards Complaints Board and the Advertising Standards Complaints Appeal Board are the final arbiters of the interpretation of the Codes.

For the purposes of the Codes:

• The word "advertisement" is to be taken in its broadest sense to embrace any form of advertising and includes advertising which promotes the interest of any person, product or service, imparts information, educates, or advocates an idea, belief, political viewpoint or opportunity. The definition includes advertising in all traditional media and new media such as online advertising, including websites. Emails and SMS messaging that are selling or promoting a product, service, idea or opportunity are also covered by the codes, as are neck labels or promotions attached to a product Other examples include posters, pamphlets and billboards (whether stationary or mobile) and addressed or unaddressed mail.

• the word "product" includes goods, services and facilities whether paid or given free.

• the word "consumer" refers to any person to whom an advertisement is addressed or is likely to be reached by it whether as a final consumer or as a trade customer or user.

• Where complaints have been received concerning advertisements placed in publications, programmes or interactive media, which

1. originate outside New Zealand

and

2. are intended primarily for audiences outside New Zealand but also reach New Zealand audiences,

the ASCB and ASCAB will take into account the following guidelines.

1. Compliance with the advertising rules in the country of origin.
   

2. The size and composition of the New Zealand audience.
   

3. Whether the advertising is targeted at New Zealand consumers.
   

4. The accessibility of the product to New Zealand consumers.
   

5. Whether best endeavours have been made to exclude advertisements which would clearly breach the Advertising Codes of Practice. This could be particularly relevant in the case of live presentations of overseas events to a substantial number of New Zealanders.

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