Consumer Affairs Minister Judith Tizard says she been receiving complaints from people talked into buying unnecessary extended warranties.

Ms Tizard said after a "stream of complaints" she looked into the issue and urged retailers to be honest about what they were offering.

"I have sought advice, and it is clear that often when you buy goods for personal use you don't actually need an extended warranty. You are already covered by the Consumer Guarantees Act, so why pay more for rights you already have?"

Ms Tizard said consumers, when buying anything from a television to a digital music player, should ask what extra protection beyond the Act was being offered by an extended warranty.

"If you do decide to purchase an extended warranty get a copy of the warranty and read it -- see for yourself whether it offers you more protections than the Consumer Guarantees Act."

Faults caused through misuse and wear and tear examples of things not covered by the Act.

The Act states that all goods must be of acceptable quality, meaning they are able to last a reasonable time, be fit for their particular purpose, match the description, match any samples and have spare parts and repair facilities available.