Terms & conditions

The fine print for your fine bakes

By confirming your booking with Taupō Cake Co, you agree to the following terms and conditions. These are designed to ensure the best possible experience and the highest quality results for your celebration.

1. Pricing & payments

Quotes: Following our chat, your quote is valid for 7 days.
Deposit & balance: A 50% deposit is required to confirm and secure your order. Your date is only held once the deposit has been received. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks (14 days) before your collection or delivery date.
Short notice orders: Orders placed within 2 weeks of the required collection or delivery date are considered short notice and must be paid in full at the time of ordering before work will begin.
Value: My prices reflect the high standard of craftsmanship and premium ingredients used. Prices are non-negotiable and I do not price-match.

2. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Cancellations: All cancellations are subject to approval. Deposits are non-refundable. Refunds may be applicable in certain circumstances only, and at my discretion. Any refund will exclude the cost of specialty items or ingredients that have had to be specially ordered or sourced for your order, as these cannot be recovered.
Within 2 weeks of your date: Non-refundable (the balance has already been paid).
More than 2 weeks' notice: A partial refund or store credit may be offered at my discretion, excluding the deposit and any specialty items as above.
Design changes: Please check your quote carefully! I will try to accommodate changes where possible, but if work has already begun or costs are affected, your balance will be adjusted. Changes are requested to be in writing.
Artistic licence: As every cake is handmade, variations from reference images can occur. I reserve the right to adjust design elements to ensure structural integrity or quality.

3. Acceptance of design

The handover: Upon collection, you (or your designated person) will be shown the cake. Once the cake leaves my premises, it is considered accepted.
Concerns: If you have any concerns regarding the design, please raise them at the time of pick-up so I can rectify them where possible. No refunds will be provided for design elements (style, colour, etc.) after the cake has been collected.

4. Quality & refunds

Inspection: Refunds regarding the baking or quality of the cake are subject to my assessment. A reasonable portion of the cake must be returned for inspection for any refund to be considered.
Store credit: Any refunds issued will be provided as store credit only.

5. Allergies & dietary requirements

Trace allergens: While I can provide gluten-free, egg-free, or nut-free options, please note that these ingredients are used in my kitchen. While I take every care to avoid cross-contamination, I cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment.
Inedible items: Some cakes contain structural supports (dowels), wires in sugar flowers, or ribbons. It is your responsibility to ensure these are removed before serving.

6. Delivery & transport

Condition: By booking delivery, you accept that the cake leaves my kitchen in perfect condition. I am not liable for damage during transit unless caused directly by the driver.
Collection: Once the cake is in your possession, Taupō Cake Co is no longer responsible for damage. Please transport cakes on a flat surface (the floor of the car is best) and avoid heat.
Heat damage: Heat damage (especially during summer) is not refundable. Ensure someone is available to receive deliveries promptly.

7. Storage & serving

Freshness: My cakes are made with natural ingredients and no preservatives. They are best enjoyed within 48 hours.
Temperature: While cakes are shelf-stable in a cool cupboard, I recommend refrigeration for the best visual results. Always remove the cake from the fridge 1 to 2 hours before serving to let the buttercream soften.
Portions: My portion guide is an estimate based on standard Dessert serving size (2 inch x 1 inch) or Wedding serving size (1 inch x 1 inch). Actual yield depends on how the cake is cut.

8. Photos & promotion

I reserve the right to photograph my creations and use these images for marketing on my website or social media. If your cake is for a surprise or you'd prefer it stay private, just let me know!

9. The legal stuff

Force majeure: In circumstances beyond my control (natural disasters, pandemics, etc.), refunds will not be provided.
Consumer rights: Nothing in these terms affects your rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act.

Have a question about these terms?

Please get in touch before confirming your booking. As an owner-operated business, I pride myself on providing a personal and professional service. Thank you for choosing Taupō Cake Co!

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