Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

It’s a new year, and major reforms are on the horizon! In late 2024, the Coalition Government unveiled sweeping changes set to shake up New Zealand’s employment law landscape. These updates aren’t just policy tweaks, they’re set to reshape how businesses operate in 2025 and beyond.
Join host Sanam as she unpacks these reforms in plain English and provides insights to help you prepare.
What’s in this episode:
Personal grievance reforms: stricter rules for serious misconduct, reduced remedies, and changes to reinstatement eligibility
Proposed changes to restraints of trade
The new minimum wage rates for adult, starting-out, and training wages from April 2025
What about the Holidays Act? Clearer definitions and simpler leave calculations
If you’re an employer, HR professional, or business leader, now is the time to get ahead of the curve. From hiring and terminations to everyday workplace management, these reforms will impact every corner of your business. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make 2025 your most compliant year yet!
Coming next week: A deep dive into the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) reforms and their impact on recruitment strategies in 2025.
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
More flexible dismissal process for high-income employees - The Beehive
Removing rewards for poor employee behaviour - The Beehive
Restraint of Trade Bill
Minimum wage increase - Employment NZ
Minister response to consultation on Holidays Act replacement - The Beehive
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.

As Law Lenz wraps up for the festive season, host Sanam wants to take a moment to say a huge THANK YOU!
This year has been nothing short of phenomenal, thanks to you. We’ve reached more listeners than we ever imagined, and we’ve had the absolute privilege of connecting with so many of you. Your support, whether it's spreading the word, reaching out, and tuning in each week, has been the driving force behind the growth of Employment Law Done Right. Truly, it wouldn’t have been possible without you!
To help you navigate the holiday period, we have put together a list of past episodes you might find useful:
Unpack the Holidays Act: Closedown Periods, but the Right Way
Unpack the Holidays Act: Is the Public Holiday an Otherwise Working Day?
Ask Law Lenz: Navigating Casuals on Holidays
For those celebrating, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! If you’re not celebrating, we hope you enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation. We will be back mid-January. See you in the new year!
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
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.

Annual closedowns are a regular occurrence for many businesses across New Zealand. However, they often come with a range of questions and compliance concerns. Whether your business shuts its doors over Christmas or during another seasonal break, getting the details right is essential.
In this episode of Employment Law Done Right, host Sanam provides a quick refresher on the top tips for managing annual closedowns effectively. This episode is perfect for businesses seeking a simple compliance checklist without diving into every detail.
Need more? Check out Sanam's comprehensive episode (CLICK HERE) for a full breakdown of annual closedown requirements.
What we cover in this episode:
What is an annual closedown?
Tip 1: Is it a customary closedown?
Tip 2: Have you given proper notice?
Tip 3: What happens to annual leave?
Tip 4: What about public holidays?
Whether you are finalising plans for the holiday season or refining your processes, this episode provides the compliance essentials to help your business closedown smoothly and stress-free.
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
Law Lenz Full Annual Closedowns Episode
Annual Closedowns and Holidays - 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.

‘Tis the season for festive cheer, and that means one thing… the work Christmas party! But before you deck the halls and celebrate, there are a few key things to keep in mind to make sure your holiday bash is both merry and safe.
In this episode, host Sanam covers everything employers need to know for a memorable (and incident-free) work party. From employer obligations under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 to setting expectations for unacceptable conduct, we’ll dive into practical strategies that go beyond the basics. We’re talking everything from choosing the right type of event, managing alcohol, ensuring safe transport, and even handling complaints if they come up on the night.
Join us as we explore how to create a holiday celebration that ends the year on a positive note, strengthens team bonds, and keeps everyone in the holiday spirit! 
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
Section 36 Primary duty of care - Health and Safety At Work Act 2015
Managing risks at events - WorkSafe
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.

Imagine working hard, only to face the spine-chilling reality that your pay is nowhere to be found. Payday quickly turns into a nightmare as days creep by unpaid and all while you’re still putting in the hours. In most cases, employers across New Zealand get payroll done on time, but some face cash flow issues or accounting oversights that lead to the horror of delayed pay runs.
In this Halloween special of Ask Law Lenz, we’re diving into the nightmarish reality of missed payroll - chilling experience too familiar to workers who find their earnings mysteriously delayed. Host Sanam explores the legal consequences of missed payroll deadlines and the rights New Zealand employees have when payday takes an unexpected turn. She’ll also discuss the common reasons behind payroll delays and practical steps employers can take to avoid falling into this haunting trap.
So settle in, and prepare for the spooky side of employment law as we dive into the chilling tales of payroll gone wrong in New Zealand.
Want to know more about why wage and time records matter? Check out THIS Law Lenz podcast episode! 
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions like Melody? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
What if I'm not paid what I'm owed - Community Law
Failure to pay on time breaches employment agreement - Rainey Collins Lawyers
What happens if my employer stops paying me? - Watermark Lawyers
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.

Bereavement leave isn’t always top of mind when we think about employee entitlements. It tends to fly under the radar, only becoming relevant during deeply emotional and often difficult times. But just because it’s not as frequently discussed as other types of leave doesn’t mean it’s without its challenges. In fact, what might seem straightforward on the surface can quickly become tricky when real-life complexities arise. Whether it’s determining eligibility, understanding cultural differences around grief, or dealing with sensitive situations of misuse - there’s more to navigate than you might expect.
In this back to basics episode, host Sanam takes you through everything you need to know about bereavement leave, from the essentials to the more nuanced issues.
This episode covers:
Eligibility and bereavement leave entitlement
Employer obligations
Payment of bereavement leave
Other types of bereavements
Misuse of bereavement leave and requesting proof
Upcoming Holidays Act changes to bereavement leave
From understanding the basics to processing payments correctly, and even addressing those tough conversations around misuse, Sanam has got you covered. Tune in for practical tips and insights that can make a challenging time easier for both you and your employees.
Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Want to know more about HRHQ? CLICK HERE to check out Lisa Young's community, resources and workshops. 
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
Section 63 Entitlement to bereavement leave - Holidays Act
Section 69 Bereavement leave - Holidays Act
Section 70 Duration of bereavement leave - Holidays Act
Section 72 When payment of bereavement leave must be made - Holidays Act
Bereavement leave - 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.
 

Navigating New Zealand employment law can be tricky, but the Law Lenz Newsletter is here to help! Get expert insights, real-world examples, and practical tips delivered straight to your inbox - with a touch of light-hearted fun too. Host Sanam keeps you updated on the latest legal developments, helping you avoid costly mistakes and stay compliant. So what are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on this valuable resource! 
 
Sign up today by CLICKING HERE.
 
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Email your queries through to Sanam at asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz episodes and website HERE. 
 
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.

Have you heard about the latest announcement from Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke van Velden?
The recent legal update is making waves across New Zealand, as it proposes to create certainty when entering into contractor arrangements. Businesses are now facing a potential legal shake-up that will provide greater clarity around the status of independent contractors. But what does this mean for your business?
In this episode, our host Sanam breaks down the key points you need to know, including:
The difference between an independent contractor and an employee
An overview of the current "true nature of the relationship" tests
The Government’s reasoning and motivation behind this important legal shift
What the proposed Gateway Test is, how it works, and what it means for businesses 
How these changes could impact businesses, from gig economy workers to traditional industries
What steps your business can take right now to prepare for these upcoming changes 
If you're a business owner, contractor, or HR professional navigating the complexities of worker status and legal compliance, this episode is a must-listen. Stay ahead of the curve and make sure you’re ready for these significant changes in the employment law landscape!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
Increased certainty for contractors coming - Beehive Announcement
Employee or contractor (current tests) - Employment NZ
Employment Relations Act Amendment (proposed flow chart) - MBIE website
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.

Emojis have become the new language of the workplace - but is it all just fun banter, or could it turn into a HR nightmare? 
In this light-hearted episode, join host Sanam as she delves into the cheeky world of emojis and what they mean for workplace communication. Whether you're sprinkling them into Slack messages or firing off a playful emoji in a work email, these tiny icons can carry serious compliance and HR implications.
Tune in for a fun yet insightful look at where to draw the line with emojis in the workplace. We’ll break down the legal consequences of misusing them, share real-life cases, and offer practical tips to avoid potential pitfalls.
If you're an employer, HR pro, or a leader who loves using emojis at work, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
Emojis in the workplace, potential risks and guidance for HR - HRD Article
Emojis and the office: Is it okay to use them at work?
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.

Wage and time records might seem like just another admin task, but they’re actually the backbone of fair and compliant employment practices. These records aren’t just about ticking boxes - they ensure employees get what they’re legally entitled to and shield employers from serious legal and financial risks. In this episode, we’re diving deep into why accurate wage and time records are more crucial than you might think.
We’ll explore the importance of wage and time recording requirements under the Employment Relations Act, the Privacy Act's requirements on record retention, and a recent Employment Relations Authority decision that slapped hefty penalties on a business that dropped the ball. Plus, we’ll briefly touch on wage claims and how they differ from other personal grievance claims.
Join our host, Sanam, as she breaks down real-world cases, showing how even small lapses in record-keeping can snowball into major legal nightmares. We’ll also discuss the broader impacts of breaching employment laws, from personal liability for business owners to lasting damage to a company’s reputation.
Whether you’re an employer, manager, or HR professional, this episode is packed with insights to keep your business on the right side of the law. Don’t miss out - stay ahead of the curve and protect your business by tuning in!
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights.
Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 
Resources:
s 130 Wages and time record - Employment Relations Act
s 132 Failure to keep or produce wage records - Employment Relations Act
Horticulture firm, owner penalised for failed record-keeping - HRD article & case
Privacy Act / retaining employee records - Privacy Commissioner
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.