Two complaints about Wicked Campers vans have been upheld by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).
The company came under fire last year over the controversial slogans and art on its vehicles, even drawing criticism from then-Prime Minister John Key and current Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett.
The two slogans the ASA took issue with are:
- Attention Thieves. Thou Shalt Not Steal. God Is Watching You Thieving C**t
- Let's Throw a Cat on The Barbie
The first "used inappropriate language and was offensive to Christians and women", says the ASA, and the second "gave the impression that animal cruelty was acceptable or amusing".
Neither slogan was "prepared with a due sense of social responsibility to consumers and to society".
Wicked Campers didn't respond to the complaints, failing to offer the ASA a defence.
Three slogans used by the company were banned by the censor last year, as well as likenesses of Snow White, Scooby Doo and Dr Seuss characters, and drug use.
Several tourist destinations across New Zealand and Australia have banned the company's vehicles.
The ASA has no power to fine or ban an advertisement.
Read the full decision on the ASA's website.
Newshub.
