18 Jun 2026
4 months ago
1201 views
From 1 July 2026, the maximum weekly paid parental leave rate in New Zealand will increase to $811.05, reflecting rises in average weekly earnings, providing eligible parents with up to 26 weeks of financial support. This leave applies not only to parents of newborns but also to those experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, adoption, or surrogacy, ensuring time for bonding and recovery. The increase, mandated by the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, also raises the minimum rate for self-employed parents to $239.50 per week.
12 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1260 views
The Employment Leave Bill, recently passed its first reading in Parliament, aims to replace the complex Holidays Act 2003 with a simpler framework that reduces errors and provides clarity for businesses and workers. It introduces hours-based accrual, pro-rata sick leave, and improved entitlements such as immediate access to leave and full pay after parental leave, addressing compliance challenges and worker benefits. Minister Brooke van Velden emphasized extensive consultation and encouraged public feedback to ensure the legislation is effective and sustainable long-term.
23 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1491 views
The speaker acknowledges the complexity and challenges associated with the Holidays Act 2003, highlighting the need for reform to simplify calculations and reduce compliance costs. They introduce the Employment Leave Act as a replacement, outlining key changes such as transitioning to an hours-based accrual system for annual and sick leave. Additionally, the new legislation includes provisions for casual workers through a Leave Compensation Payment system and addresses issues related to parental leave entitlements, with a focus on clarity, fairness, and simplicity in the new employment laws.
23 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1410 views
Cabinet has approved the repeal of the Holidays Act 2003 and its replacement with the Employment Leave Act, aiming to simplify leave entitlements for both employers and employees. The key changes include a shift to hours-based accrual for annual and sick leave, pro rata sick leave entitlements, and a Leave Compensation Payment system for casual employees and additional hours worked. The reforms also address issues related to parental leave, family violence leave, mandatory pay statements, and cashing up annual leave, with a 24-month implementation period planned post-legislation passage.