Why Sharing Your Experience Matters: Your Rights & Our Commitment
At AgedAdvisor.nz, we believe real stories shape better choices. Whether your experience with aged care or independent living was positive, difficult, or somewhere in between, your voice can help others make confident, informed decisions.
You Have the Right to Speak Up
In New Zealand, your right to share your views is protected by law. Two sections of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act are especially relevant when it comes to speaking about aged care:
• Section 13 – Freedom of Thought, Conscience, Religion and Belief
You're free to hold and express your personal beliefs and opinions about your experiences.
• Section 14 – Freedom of Expression
This gives you the right to share your thoughts and read what others have shared too. Whether your review is glowing or critical, you have the right to tell your story, and we’re here to ensure you can do that safely and confidently.
How We Support Open, Respectful Conversations
While your right to speak freely is protected, we also work to ensure this platform remains respectful, constructive, and useful for everyone. That’s where our Posting Guidelines come in.
Here’s what we ask when you share a review:
• Stick to your experience — Describe what happened, how often, and how it made you feel.
• Keep it general — Use phrases like “a staff member” instead of naming individuals.
• Be respectful — Avoid language that’s offensive, aggressive, or harmful. This is a family-friendly site.
• Be accurate — Avoid blanket statements like “always” or “never” unless they’re truly accurate. If something happened once, say so. If it happened three times, be specific.
If a review needs slight edits to meet our guidelines, we’ll clearly indicate any changes using [eds.]. For strong feelings, you’re welcome to add [in my opinion] to keep the tone respectful while still expressing your view.
How We Handle Concerns and Moderation
Sometimes, a review may raise concerns, either from the provider involved or from members of the community. When this happens, our moderation team carefully reviews the content to ensure it aligns with our guidelines and values.
We understand the sensitivities involved and appreciate it when concerns are brought to our attention. If a comment needs to be modified, we do so transparently and in line with our guidelines, always aiming to balance the right to expression with the need for respectful dialogue.
We also recognise that AgedAdvisor is not a replacement for formal complaint channels. The proper avenues for formal concerns are outlined in the Code of Practice and the Occupation Right Agreement for independent retirement village living and care is through the Health and Disability Commissioner. Our platform is designed to complement, not override, those processes.
When a review includes a low rating or signals distress, we direct the reviewer to the official complaints process. At the same time, reviews can open the door for constructive engagement. We encourage providers to respond directly and invite further conversation offline when appropriate. Edits made through moderation are always done to keep feedback balanced and fair for all involved.
Your Story Helps Others
Your voice matters. Every review contributes to a community built on care, transparency, and shared learning. We’re committed to protecting your right to speak up, and to making sure this platform stays helpful and safe for everyone.
Thank you for sharing your story. It makes a difference.
