Consumer NZ is calling for better sunglass regulation in New Zealand to stop sub-standard sunnies being sold here. The move, backed by the New Zealand Association of Optometrists and the Cancer Society, was triggered by Consumer NZ research showing nearly 50% of sunglasses in Aotearoa, regardless of price, did not provide adequate sun protection.

As sunglasses aren’t regulated here, the watchdog tested sunnies against the Australian Consumer Goods Safety Standard, designed to protect people against the harmful effects of radiation and glare in this thinner-ozone part of the world. “We tested 50 pairs of sunglasses, ranging in price from $2 to nearly $200, and found almost half did not meet the standard,” said Belinda Castles, Consumer NZ research writer.

As well as testing for UV protection the Australian standard assesses sunglasses’ strength and eye coverage. Though the organisation found men’s, women’s and children’s sunglasses that provided good protection for $20 or less, Castles warned against buying sunglasses from discount stores, given only three out of nine pairs tested were found to be fit for purpose. Pairs bought through overseas outlets also had poor results, with Amazon and AliExpress specs failing technical tests.

UV damage is cumulative and irreversible, said Castles. “We’d also like regulations to include regular testing requirements to ensure there aren’t issues with batch variation.”

To see the full results, go to: www.consumer.org.nz/services/sunglasses/review