Recent Employment Relations Authority (ERA) and Employment Court decisions have shed light on how personal grievance claims are being handled in workplaces across Aotearoa. From trial-period dismissals to Covid-19 vaccination disputes, these rulings remind both employers and employees that fair process and good faith remain at the heart of New […]
Introduction The story of Mr Thomas Pona is a reminder that even well-meaning employers can make serious mistakes if they don’t follow a fair and impartial process when investigating misconduct. Mr Pona was a loyal and hardworking employee at Coin Total Wellington Limited. When stock went missing, he suddenly found […]
Why Leaving Well Matters, Resigning from your job can be one of life’s big turning points. Whether you’re chasing a new challenge, moving cities, or simply need a fresh start, the way you say goodbye can shape your reputation and future references. In employment law, how you resign can be […]
What Is Sexual Harassment? Sexual harassment is any unwelcome or offensive behaviour of a sexual nature that a reasonable person would find intimidating, humiliating or distressing. It includes (but is not limited to) unwanted touching, sexual jokes or remarks, intrusive questions about private life, repeated requests for dates, suggestive gestures, […]
What Is Sweat Equity? “Sweat equity” refers to contributing labour, time, or expertise to a new or early-stage business instead of being paid a wage immediately. The “sweat” is the work done now, and the “equity” is the promise of a future ownership stake or shareholding. This model is common […]
Trial Periods and Early Training: When Timing Makes Them Invalid The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) has consistently held that a 90-day trial period will not protect an employer if employment starts before the agreement is signed. This includes situations where a new hire begins induction, shadowing, or training under the […]
