Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

Everything You Need to Know About Good Faith

The foundation of a healthy work environment is a strong relationship built on trust and mutual respect. This concept extends to legal protections as well, with the duty of good faith acting as a core principle in employment law.
But what exactly does good faith entail, and how can employers and employees ensure they're upholding their obligations? The practical implications of good faith can be elusive and broad. Drawing from years of experience in advisory roles, host Sanam shares insights and practical tips to help both employers and employees navigate this essential aspect of New Zealand employment law.
From its foundational importance to the legal obligations outlined in the Employment Relations Act, Sanam breaks down the three key elements of good faith. Through anecdotes and real-world examples, understand how breaches of good faith can occur and the repercussions they entail.
This episode covers:
What is good faith?
Good faith and collective bargaining
Why good faith matters and why you should care 
Practical tips for the workplace and when navigating good faith
Tune into the episode to see how a duty of good faith is not just about legal compliance; good faith is the cornerstone of a productive and harmonious work environment.
Secure your spot and unlock Law Lenz perks! CLICK HERE!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions like today? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Employment Relations Act - Section 4 Good Faith
Employment NZ - Good Faith
Employment NZ - Collective Bargaining and Good Faith
Legal Vision - What Does the Good Faith Obligation Mean in New Zealand?
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Ask Law Lenz: What Are My Voluntary Redundancy Rights?

With recent government announcements aiming to cut costs by 1.5 billion dollars, many New Zealand public sector agencies are facing the possibility of redundancies. This has led to a rise in voluntary redundancies being offered to employees. But what exactly are voluntary redundancies, and what rights do you have as an employee in this situation?
In this “Ask Law Lenz” segment, join Sanam as she offers invaluable insights and answers a listener’s questions surrounding voluntary redundancy. Specifically, this episode tackles three key questions:
What benefits and rights do employees have in a voluntary redundancy?
How does a voluntary redundancy severance package work?
Does my employer have any obligation to offer me additional benefits?
Drawing examples from recent announcements and public sector changes, Sanam takes a deep dive into how these redundancies impacts both employers and employees.
This episode covers:
What voluntary redundancy is and how it works
The process for voluntary redundancy
How to decide whether to take voluntary redundancy
Knowing if an employer should offer voluntary redundancies
What severance packages typically look like in voluntary redundancy situations
Throughout the episode, Sanam provides practical information for employees considering voluntary redundancy and employers navigating workforce restructuring.
With an eye on legalities and practical considerations, Law Lenz equips you with essential knowledge to navigate this challenging environment.
Subscribe to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE and secure your spot TODAY!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions like today? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Workplace Change Selection Process - Employment New Zealand
Voluntary Redundancy - LegalVision New Zealand
Public Service Job Cuts: What Ministries Are Proposing - Stuff
MSD Cuts 200 Staff Through Voluntary Redundancies - The Press
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Workplace Woes? Early Resolution Service is the Answer

Workplace conflict got you down? What if there was a way to address workplace issues before you feel the employment relationship is becoming untenable? The Early Resolution Service, a free resource offered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), is the answer you've been searching for!
Imagine a resource designed to help employers and employees nip workplace conflict in the bud before it explodes into a full-blown personal grievance. That's the magic of Early Resolution Service! This episode of Law Lenz, hosted by Sanam, will be your guide through this valuable service.
In this episode, you'll learn everything you need to know about Early Resolution Service, including:
What is Early Resolution & how does it help?
Is Early Resolution right for your workplace issue?
Benefits of Early Resolution (faster, cheaper, better!)
When to look elsewhere for solutions
Using Early Resolution: A step-by-step guide
Tips for employers & employees to succeed
Stop workplace conflict from derailing your business! Tune in and discover how Early Resolution can save your work environment. Listen now and learn how to resolve conflict quickly and easily. 
SECURE YOUR SPOT - CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST TODAY! 
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Early Resolution Service - Employment NZ
Early Resolution Application Form - Employment NZ
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Accredited Employer Visa Changes You Shouldn't Miss!

Have you been hearing rumblings about changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)? Well, the rumours are true. The immigration law update that came into effect on 7 April 2024, has left many migrant workers and employers scrambling.
Back in February, the Public Services Commission released a scathing report highlighting serious issues with the AEWV process. Fast forward to April 2024, and the government responded with a significant shakeup designed to tighten controls and ensure migrant workers are genuinely needed.
This episode of the Law Lenz podcast is your one-stop shop for understanding the recently announced AEWV changes. Join Sanam as she breaks down the key changes for both employers and migrant workers. 
In this episode, Sanam covers changes relating to:
Reduced stays for workers
New English language requirement
Employer obligations such as stricter assessment requirements and visa conditions
Work & Income labour market tests
Skilled residence pathways
Lastly, Sanam will provide a refresher on key AEWV information and requirements that all employers should be aware of. 
Tune in now because this episode is here to give you a head start, so you can navigate the new regulations with confidence.
SECURE YOUR SPOT - CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST TODAY! 
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Listen to more Law Lenz episodes:
Click Here to tune into our update about no more 90 day trials for AEWV related applications. 
Click Here to tune into the changes to worker protection laws and the legal impacts on employers hiring migrant workers.
Resources:
Immigration New Zealand's update on AEWV changes
Immigration New Zealand - The accreditation process
ANZSCO list for checking job classifications
Immigration New Zealand webinar on 17 April 2024
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Where is Law Lenz Headed?

In this episode Sanam takes the mic to share some exciting updates and insights into the future direction of the podcast. Join her as she discusses the evolution of Law Lenz and where it's headed next. From building a community to offering training and consultancy services, Sanam invites listeners to join the waitlist and share their ideas for the journey ahead.
She also dives into her mission to bring forward the employer's perspective in workplace discussions, advocating for better understanding and education among employers and HR professionals. Whether you're nodding along in agreement or curious about a different approach, Sanam's passion for positive change shines through. So, buckle up and tune in to discover where Law Lenz is headed next!
SECURE YOUR SPOT - CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST TODAY! 
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Inflation's Impact on Compensation for "Hurt & Humiliation"

One of the key remedies available to an employee in a successful personal grievance claim is compensation. The compensation is associated with humiliation, loss of dignity, and injury to feelings. Over the years we have seen a steady increase with compensation. In 2023, there was a reassessment of compensation awards, which has now been adopted by the Employment Relations Authority and Employment Court. 
Whether you're an employer navigating the complexities of dispute resolution or an employee seeking justice in the face of adversity, understanding compensation is paramount. In today's episode, we're not just scratching the surface. We're diving deep into the nuances of compensation, exploring recent developments, real-world case studies, and practical insights that can equip you to navigate this terrain with confidence.
In this episode, we cover:
Understanding compensation and its significance in employment disputes.
Understanding the 3 band approach to compensation.
The five-step approach used by courts to assess compensation.
Real-world case studies illustrating compensation outcomes.
Insights from the GF v Customs (2023) case and its implications.
Observations on post-inflation adjustments and recent trends.
Key takeaways and the importance of knowing the bands.
Stay tuned as we unravel the intricacies of compensation remedies in employment law. 
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Section 123(1)(c)(i) - Employment Relations Act 2000
Awarding Costs & Remedies - Employment Relations Authority
Banding Together: The Court's New Approach to Awards for Injury to Feelings
GF v Comptroller of Customs Judgment (PDF)
Parker & Magnum Hire - Bullied Manager Wins Over $130k Against Former Employer
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Unpack the Holidays Act: Transferring Public Holidays with Ease

We are back with another “Unpack the Holidays Act” episode! This time around we're unpacking a topic that often flies under the radar: transferring public holidays. It's a provision that might be unfamiliar to many, yet it can provide great benefits to a workplace. Like with all other areas of New Zealand employment law, employers and employees must understand their obligations. 
Join Sanam as she uncovers the rights, obligations, and potential pitfalls involved in transferring public holidays. From the complexities of transferring part of a public holiday to reasons behind the transfer - she leaves no stone unturned.
This episode covers:
Automatic transfers under the Holidays Act
Transferring a whole public holiday under section 44B
Transferring part of a public holiday under section 44A
Analysis of Flower and Allied Investment 2018 ERA case 
Employer rights under the Holidays Act
Reasons why an employer or employee would suggest a transfer
Whether you're an employer seeking clarity or an employee navigating your entitlements, knowledge is your most potent ally in this complex employment law landscape.
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Holidays Act Section 44
Transferring a Public Holiday by Agreement - Employment NZ
Flowers and Allied Investment 2018 Employment Relations Authority Case
Flowers and Allied Investment 2019 Employment Court Case
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

The Coalition Proposes to Shake-up Employment Law

Last week was a saucy week for employment law, but not that kind of saucy! It was a whirlwind of developments in New Zealand's employment law landscape. We saw the resurfacing of the leaked Cabinet papers debacle from last year. Additionally, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Hon. Brooke van Velden, hinted at the employment law changes on the horizon by the Coalition Government.
Join our host Sanam, as she delves into the practical implications for workers and businesses alike. The episode explores the proposed reforms touching on the Holidays Act, health and safety regulations, treatment of independent contractors and revision to the personal grievance process. Finally, Sanam discusses the Minister's plans to assess the performance of frontline services such as WorkSafe and MBIE.
With the new government, the landscape of New Zealand's employment regulations are shifting! Don't miss out on valuable insights into these evolving laws and how they could impact you.
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow Law Lenz on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
 
Resources:
Fair Pay Agreements - Newshub
Speech at Auckland Business Chamber - Beehive.govt.nz
Sanam's LinkedIn Post Summarising the Changes
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Easter Sunday's Weird & Wacky Side

People wouldn’t usually connect Easter Sunday with employment law. So being a day where religious significance is at the forefront, why does employment law matter?
In this episode, Sanam takes you on a journey through the intriguing twists of the Shop Trading Hours Act. A piece of legislation that came into play in 1990 and gained peculiar amendments in 2016. Forget what you know about the Employment Relations Act, this one's all about Easter Sunday and the nuances that come with it. Discover the weird and wacky rules that often elude many employers, especially those with retail, hospitality and market related businesses.
This episode explores:
The intersection of Easter Sunday and public holidays
Insights into the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990
Requirements for working on Easter Sunday
Peculiarities of refusal to work
Practical tips for navigating Easter Sunday
How to handle employee requests and pay
Whether you own a shop or are simply curious about Easter Sunday peculiarities, join Sanam on Law Lenz for an eye-opening episode proving that employment law can be weirder and wackier than you ever imagined. Don't miss out—hit play and stay informed!”
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
 
Resources:
Shop Trading Hours Act 1990
Working Over Easter - Govt.nz
Easter Sunday Rights and Responsibilities - Employment NZ
Easter Sunday Trading Template Letter for Employers (PDF)
 
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.

Ask Law Lenz: Leap Year, Loopholes & Free Labour

The 29th of February may not have shaken New Zealand, but it sure stirred up some internet commotion. Every four years, the leap year brings with it the familiar question that never fails to spark debates. In this Ask Law Lenz segment, Sanam unravels the age-old query: Are you really working for free on a leap day?
Dive into a lighthearted episode where Sanam dissects the confusion surrounding leap years and workdays. From employment relations specialists to HR experts, everyone's weighing in, but the real surprise comes when Sanam's partner calls her out of the blue with a burning question about leap years. Thus, the genesis of a hilarious and informative episode.
As pay day may be fast approaching, and you may have stumbled upon confusing articles, this episode is a must-listen to better understanding if you have a “get outta work card”. Ease your worries, have a laugh, and leap into this episode with Law Lenz!
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we will feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
HRD Leap year loophole
Stuff - Why the belief that you don't get paid on a leap day is wrong
Stuff - Are you really working for free on a leap day?
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.