Many schools in New Zealand require their students to wear uniforms. Boards of trustees typically choose their school’s uniform and how it is to be supplied. Supply might, for example, be done exclusively through a school shop, or through a manufacturer that supplies one or more local retailers.
Schools need to be aware that when entering into arrangements for the supply of school uniforms or other school supplies, they are subject to the Commerce Act. Under the Commerce Act, it is illegal to enter an agreement that substantially lessens competition in a market.
