Nau mai, haere mai Welcome to Employment NZ
- Public holidays and anniversary dates
- Taking sick leave
- Minimum wage rates and types
- Rest and breaks
- Parental leave guide
- How to resolve problems
- Taking bereavement leave
- Free learning modules
Services, tools and resources
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Everyone
Mediation
If an employment issue cannot be resolved informally by the parties themselves, mediation may help them to reach an agreement.
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Everyone
Early resolution
Early resolution is a free, impartial phone-based service that helps employers and employees resolve a workplace issue quickly and informally.
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Everyone
Migrant exploitation
Migrant workers have the same minimum employment rights as New Zealand workers. If you, or someone you know, is being exploited in the workplace, you can report it to us.
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Everyone
Labour Inspectorate complaints
You can complain to the Labour Inspectorate if you see or suspect a breach of employment standards.
Holidays Act reform
Find out more about proposed changes to the Holidays Act.
Popular topics
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Everyone
Public holidays and anniversary dates
Employees have minimum rights that apply to public holidays.
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Everyone
Sick leave
Eligible employees are entitled to 10 days of paid sick leave each year so they can care for themselves, their partners or their dependants.
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Everyone
Minimum wage
Minimum wage rates apply to all employees aged 16 and over.
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Everyone
Rest and breaks
Employees must be paid rest and unpaid meal breaks. The number and duration will depend on the hours worked. Women who breastfeed or express milk can have extra breaks and facilities where practical.
Latest news
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Labour Inspectorate swoops on Bay of Islands
Last week the Labour Inspectorate launched an extensive compliance operation in the Bay of Islands. Labour Inspectors visited dozens of businesses.
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Labour Inspectorate in nationwide employer compliance clampdown
Scores of employers across the country can expect a visit from Labour Inspectors soon as the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) Labour Inspectorate clamps down on errant business owners.
- Legal case
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Retail, hospitality businesses in Labour Inspectorate spotlight
The Labour Inspectorate has launched its first operation for 2025, making unannounced visits to 13 retail and hospitality businesses in Hamilton to check compliance with minimum employment standards.
- Migrant exploitation
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South Waikato farmer ordered to pay $30,000 for employment breaches
The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) has ordered a South Waikato farmer and his dairy farming business to pay penalties of $30,000 for breach of employment standards relating to 4 employees.
- Legal case