Amendment to Health and Safety at Work Act
The Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill is now before Parliament, and, if passed, this legislation would mark the most significant reform of New Zealand’s health and safety regime since 2016. The Government says the Bill is intended to reduce unnecessary compliance costs by sharpening the focus on critical risks, clarifying grey areas, and […]
Repeal of the Holidays Act 2003
A new Employment Leave Bill has been introduced to replace the Holidays Act 2003, with the new regime expected to take effect in 2028 after a year’s transition period. The proposed reforms are aimed at simplifying one of New Zealand’s most difficult employment law regimes, which has been notoriously hard for employers to apply in […]
Are Employment Disputes Taking Too Long? MBIE Calls for Feedback
Employment disputes are rarely resolved quickly. Before a matter can be heard Employment Relations Authority, parties will usually need to go through MBIE (the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment) mediation first. Right now, that means waiting around 3 to 4 months just to get a mediation date. Even then, the process is not fast. […]
Shifting unemployment rates: What this means for employers
Recent Stats NZ figures show unemployment sitting at around 5.3% in March 2026. Although the unemployment rate has not shifted dramatically since last quarter, it remains well above the 3.5% recorded three years in the March 2023 quarter, and is still sitting at one of the highest rates since briefly around September 2020 and prior, […]
Court of Appeal clarifies HSWA liability for trusts and trustees
The Court of Appeal has released its decision in RH & JY Trust v WorkSafe New Zealand [2026] NZCA 12, confirming that trusts, as well as trustees acting collectively, can be prosecuted as a “person” under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (“HSWA”). This ruling provides clarity for businesses that operate through trust […]
How employers can respond to global supply chain disruptions and fuel supply uncertainty
Global supply chain disruptions and fuel supply uncertainty can affect business operations, staffing, costs, and customer demand. Employers should respond proactively by reviewing employment agreements, updating flexible working policies, assessing restructuring risks, and planning for contractual issues such as force majeure. A clear response plan can reduce uncertainty, support employees, and help businesses remain resilient […]
Keep the cash flowing – tips to get paid – Part 2
Rebecca Richter, Lawyer, Ford Sumner Lawyers Cashflow is king for any small contractor — yet late payments or clients who don’t pay at all can cripple your business. But one powerful tool can help protect your cash flow – making sure your invoices are valid payment claims under the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (CCA). Do you have small […]
The Good Employer
Welcome to our latest Employment Newsletter – The Good Employer. In this issue we bring you up to date with the latest in employment law developments and practical workplace considerations. Click here to see The Good Employer Newsletter. Feel free to share this newsletter around, and please let us know your suggestions for future issues! […]
Airports Newsletter April 2026
Welcome to our latest Airports Newsletter! In this newsletter, you’ll find valuable legal updates on issues impacting airports and their operations. Click here to see the Airports Newsletter. Feel free to share this newsletter around, and please let us know your suggestions for future issues! As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need […]
External Investigations: A Guide For Employers
Workplace investigations can be among the most challenging and sensitive aspects of managing a business and employing staff. These processes can be stressful and disruptive, but there are ways to minimise risks and reduce potential disruption. This article explores when it may be appropriate to appoint an external workplace investigator, and why doing so can […]