Sick Leave in New Zealand: Your Guide to Keeping Your Team Healthy and Your Business Running

Sick leave isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a cornerstone of a productive workplace. When you handle it well, you protect your people, keep operations flowing, and strengthen trust across your team.

At Knowhow, we help businesses move from confusion to confidence when it comes to sick leave. Here’s how to get it right.

Know the Rules – and Apply Them Consistently

Under New Zealand law, all employees (including casuals who meet certain criteria) are entitled to a minimum of 10 days of paid sick leave per year once they’ve worked for you for six months. Unused days can roll over, up to a maximum of 20. These are the minimum entitlements, and employers and employees can agree contractually to provide more than this if desired.

From policy to practice, consistency is key. Apply the same process for every employee—whether it’s your longest-serving manager or your newest hire. Consistency reduces disputes and builds fairness into your culture.

Keep Communication Clear

When a team member is unwell, the conversation shouldn’t be awkward. Agree upfront on:

• When they need to let you know (e.g., before their shift starts)

• How they should make contact (phone, text, or email)

• What information you need (e.g., expected return date, doctor’s certificate if away for more than 3 consecutive days—or earlier if your policy allows)

By setting these expectations early, you create clarity from day one.

Plan for Absences Before They Happen

Every business has key roles that can’t be left unmanned. The best time to plan for sick leave cover is before you need it.
Cross-train your team so knowledge isn’t siloed, and document processes so others can step in seamlessly.

From disruption to resilience—this is how you keep your business moving when life (and illness) happens.

Get Expert Backup

Sick leave rules can get tricky—especially when they intersect with performance, extended illness, or repeated absences. That’s where Knowhow comes in.

We give you clear, compliant steps to manage sick leave in a way that protects your business and looks after your people. Whether you’re updating policies, handling a complex case, or just need a second opinion—we’ve got your back.

Sick leave is more than a line in the Holidays Act—it’s a tool for building a healthier, more committed team. Handle it well, and you’ll see the payoff in loyalty, productivity, and workplace culture.

Need help with a sick leave challenge right now?
Book a free HR discovery call with Knowhow and move from uncertainty to clarity.