Jetstar scales fail MBIE compliance checks
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has directed Jetstar to stop using two baggage scales at Wellington Airport after inspections found they failed to meet legal accuracy requirements under the Weights and Measures Act 1987.
Following a public complaint in September, Trading Standards, a business unit of MBIE, inspected two portable baggage scales used at Wellington Airport by Jetstar. Both were found to be non-compliant because they were not level when tested and did not meet their approval conditions.
The scales were rejected, and Jetstar was instructed to stop using them until they are re-verified by an Accredited Person. Compliance instructions have been issued to Jetstar, and a formal Corrective Action Request sent to the verifier involved to investigate the root cause of the issues identified and to put in place steps to prevent their recurrence. Trading Standards will follow up with both parties to ensure effective resolution of the issues identified and that long term, compliance is achieved.
Businesses using weighing instruments for trade — including airlines — are responsible for ensuring their equipment is legally verified, level, and accurate. Instruments must be approved for trade use and verified by an Accredited Person. Regular checks and record-keeping are strongly recommended to demonstrate due diligence.
“Consumers should be confident that the price they pay reflects the correct weight or measure,” says Stephen O’Brien, National Manager Trading Standards. “Investigations and compliance checks are carried out to protect people from being incorrectly charged due to inaccurate weighing.”
With over 20 million air traveller departures from New Zealand airports in the past year, even small inaccuracies in weighing instruments can have a wide-reaching impact.
Travellers are encouraged to check that baggage scales are level, start at zero, and carry a Mark of Verification. If a scale appears inaccurate or unverified, consumers can contact MBIE’s Trading Standards team, who investigate complaints and enforce compliance under the Weights and Measures Act 1987.
Trading Standards focuses on education and guidance to help businesses meet their obligations. If compliance is not achieved, enforcement options are available — including infringement offence notices or prosecution for serious or repeated breaches. Penalties can reach up to $10,000 for individuals and $30,000 for companies.
Across sectors, Trading Standards helps build trust by ensuring accuracy, fairness and transparency in everyday transactions — whether people are flying, shopping, or using services charged by weight or measure.
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