State Insurance New Zealand has released its latest “12 Claims of Christmas” report, showing a notable increase in claims for technology-related items during the holiday season.
Mobile phones, along with other electronics such as laptops and wearable devices, made up 46% of contents claims on Christmas Day last year, a rise of 15% compared to the previous year.
Smartphone claims were particularly prominent, climbing 36% higher on Christmas Day than during the rest of the year.
Wayne Tippet (pictured), executive general manager of claims at State, pointed out that the festive season comes with its own set of risks for households and their belongings.
“Our data clearly shows what we’ve long suspected – that Christmas is far from a risk-free event, and that’s especially true for the care we take with our tech while trying to manage and multi-task,” he said.
State compiled the most common claims lodged during the Christmas season:
State’s data highlighted that the holiday period often results in unusual and avoidable mishaps involving technology.
Claims for phones and tablets frequently involve water damage, drops, or other accidents during hectic holiday activities. One incident involved a child accidentally breaking a TV by throwing scissors while opening presents.
Tippet also noted that outdoor activities contribute to a spike in claims, with common examples including phones falling off car roofs, being dropped into water, or being damaged by sand and sun.
In addition to technology claims, State reported a rise in claims for accidental damage to homes on Christmas Day. These incidents accounted for half of all home-related claims during the period and were 30% higher than average for other days of the year.
Examples include fires caused by candles and broken glass furniture resulting from mishandling frozen turkeys. One unusual incident last year involved a runaway turkey crashing through a glass door.
Pets also contributed to claims during the season. Damages to rugs, carpets, and upholstery caused by animals were among the more expensive incidents, with the average claim costing over $3,000. These were often linked to pets reacting to stress or excitement during festive gatherings.
As many New Zealanders head to campgrounds and festivals during the holiday period, the risks of theft and damage increase.
State highlighted common camping-related claims, including lost jewellery, damaged hearing aids, and stolen fishing gear. Festival-goers also reported thefts of clothing, electronics, and other valuables left in tents while attending events.
Tippet encouraged holidaymakers to secure their belongings and leave valuable items at home if possible.
Focusing on renters, State’s recent analysis warned that electronics remain the most common claim category for young renters, accounting for 63% of contents claims. Theft was the leading cause, with some claims exceeding $20,000, particularly in cases involving burglary.
“We’re seeing young tenants claim for stolen laptop bags containing all their tech, handbags, wallets, and phones – all items that can be quickly swiped by thieves,” Tippet said.
State recently launched a campaign to help renters better understand the value of their belongings and encourage them to protect their assets.
Tippet emphasised that renters often underestimate how costly it can be to replace basic items.
“It’s better to insure our items once rather than buying them twice,” he added.
