Four New Zealand retailers have been warned over the sale of unsafe bikes and toys in the lead up the Christmas, according to the Commerce Commission.

Mighty Ape, Gift House, 123 Dollar Store Huntly and Just Incredible have warned by the ComCom after investigations found the businesses had supplied unsafe goods to Kiwis which could have led to injury.

“We want customers to think hard about the toys and bikes they buy this Christmas,” ComCom head of consumer Stuart Wallace said.

“The obligation is on retailers to make sure that the toys and bikes they sell are compliant. Almost all our product safety prosecutions come from unannounced visits to retailers and we will continue that important work.

“However, we also urge customers to do their homework about the kinds of toys suitable for children aged under 3.”

Mighty Ape sold bikes that had brakes that were not configured properly or lacked back pedal brakes for children’s bikes. Just Incredible sold rubber squeeze toys which would come apart during use and presented a choking hazard, similar to toys sold by 123 Dollar Story Huntly.

Finally, Gift House sold toys that also presented choking hazards, as well as children’s nightwear that didn’t have the correct fire hazard information label attached.