Code of Ethics of The Auctioneers Association of New Zealand Inc.
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Members belong to the Association on a voluntary basis but the general public can have confidence that members abide by the Rules and Code and Ethics of the Association.
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While the activities of Auctioneers are governed by statute, it is, none-the-less, desirable that Members of the Association recognise the social and moral obligations and responsibilities demanded of them by both the public and their peers. Members should, therefore, be zealous to improve the standards of the profession and should at all times act in such a way as to bring to it both honour and integrity.
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Relations Between Members |
Relations With the Public |
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1. Professional Conduct
Members must act honestly, fairly, and in good faith with fellow Members. Avoid conflicts and behave respectfully at all times. 2. Resolving Disputes If disagreements arise, Members must try to resolve them directly. If that fails, the issue must be resolved through arbitration by a mutually agreed Member, whose decision will be final. 3. Disciplinary Matters Allegations of misconduct or legal breaches must be reported to the Association’s disciplinary committee. 4. Respect for Others Members must not publicly criticise or speak poorly of other Members or their transactions, unless invited by a party involved and done respectfully. 5. Fair Promotion Members may promote their expertise but must not claim to be better than others or compare services in a negative way. 6. No Interference Members must not interfere in others’ transactions. Fair competition is encouraged, but unethical interference is not allowed. 7. Uphold Reputation Members must protect their own professional image and that of the Association. |
8. Responsible Advertising
All advertising must be honest and must not damage the Association’s reputation. 9. Follow the Rules Members must know and follow the Association’s rules at all times. 10. Educate Your Staff Members must ensure their employees understand and follow this Code of Ethics. 11. Know the Law Members must understand relevant auctioneering laws, contract law, and any regulations related to the goods they handle. 12. Act in Clients’ Best Interests Members must be fair, impartial, and act in their clients’ best interests, treating their clients’ property as their own. 13. Give Honest Opinions Members must give honest, informed opinions only when qualified to do so, and may charge fairly for this service. 14. Maintain Confidentiality Members must protect client information and not share buyer/seller details without consent. 15. Act With Integrity Members must serve with honesty, protect the public from unethical practices, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. 16. Stay Ethical – Always No client request or instruction can justify unethical behaviour. 17. Speaking on Behalf of the Association Only authorised individuals (e.g., Chairperson, or appointed persons) may speak for the Association. Any personal statements by Members must be responsible, accurate, and uphold the Association’s reputation. |
All Members agree to uphold this Code of Ethics as a condition of membership.
Failure to follow these principles may result in disciplinary action by the Association.
Failure to follow these principles may result in disciplinary action by the Association.
