News & Views
Proposed changes to New Zealand Employment Law
Summary of the proposed amendments below along with providing insights into what these proposed amendments mean to employers.
Serious Misconduct Justifies Dismissal Despite Imperfect Process
Morrison v New Zealand Post provides a useful reminder that, in cases of serious misconduct, a dismissal may be upheld even where the employer’s process is less than perfect.
Unilever Wins on Dismissal Process
In a recent decision, the Employment Relations Authority confirmed the long-standing principle that an employer’s decision to dismiss will not be rendered unjustified by minor procedural imperfections, provided the dismissal itself is substantively fair and the overall process meets the test of reasonableness.
Secret Recordings in the Workplace
In a world where phones are always within reach, it’s becoming more common for employees to record conversations. But when it's done in secret, without permission, it crosses a line—and can justify dismissal.
5 Cases Every Employer Should Know in 2025
Staying informed on recent Employment Relations Authority and Employment Court decisions is one of the smartest things an employer can do. Here are five decisions from the past year that have clarified, reinforced, or strengthened employer rights in New Zealand.
Invalid Trial Period – Retail
The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) recently addressed a case in which a worker alleged unjustified dismissal and disadvantage in her employment.
The Importance of Getting it Right
Recent case law regarding performance management emphasizes the importance of managing risk.
Working across the ditch - the differences between New Zealand and Australian Employment Law
One of our frequently asked questions pertains to the differences between Australian (AU) and New Zealand (NZ) employment laws.
Having head offices in AU and employees in NZ can pose challenges if you are not familiar with the variations in employment legislation and the requirements of employing staff in these two countries.
While AU and NZ share many common principles, there are key differences that if overlooked, can lead to complications and real implications for offshore AU businesses.
We aim to break down these differences for those of you in this situation.
Job Descriptions & Policy’s
Why job descriptions are important? What should be in a job description? Effective Job Description Uses Policy Management & Top Policy’s
Christmas and Annual Leave
As we approach the holiday season it is the time of year for annual closedowns, Christmas parties but for some companies it can be the busiest time of year.
We get a lot of questions around Christmas party management, absenteeism, your ability to request employees to take annual leave and employment agreements therefore, we have prepared some guidance for you,
Timeframe for raising a Personal Grievance relating to Sexual Harassment has been extended
Effective from 13 June 2023, the Employment Relations Act now provides an extended timeframe for employees to raise a personal grievance relating to sexual harassment.
The legislation now grants employees a 12-month timeframe to raise a personal grievance relating to allegations of sexual harassment.