Because employment law is always evolving, we share our insights, expertise and knowledge on a regular basis and comment in the media.
Knowledge
July 2, 2024
Employment Court finds TVNZ fails to uphold employer obligations during restructure
E Tū Incorporated v Television New Zealand Ltd Earlier this year, TVNZ announced the surprise cancellation of Sunday, Fair Go, Midday, Tonight news and the disestablishment of 68 roles. In response, E Tū Incorporated raised proceedings (on behalf of impacted employees) on the grounds that TVNZ had breached their obligations under the Employment Relations Act […]
May 17, 2024
Workplace Banter or workplace Bullying – A fine line
Workplace Banter or workplace Bullying – A fine line In today’s modern workplace, fostering a relaxed, positive, and inclusive environment is more important than ever and humour and wit is a great way many employees and employers do so. However, there can be a fine line between friendly workplace banter and bullying. This article sets […]
May 10, 2024
Breastfeeding in the workplace – A guide for employers
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, it is crucial that we recognise the role of all mothers, including those who are having to balance the various demands of motherhood alongside their careers. One area where support is particularly crucial for mothers within the workforce is breastfeeding. For new mothers who wish to breastfeed, returning to work […]
May 8, 2024
Intergenerational Workplaces – Stop the Battle of Generations
Recently, the Black Door Law team has noticed an increase in the number of articles portraying a negative view of Generation Z workers. One example of this is the Herald’s “Hiring Gen Z is a nightmare” article. On reflection, these articles seem to identify a harmful stereotype that young workers are becoming increasingly lazy and […]
April 24, 2024
Anzac Day – Considerations for Businesses
Anzac Day (25 April) marks the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915. New Zealanders have commemorated the Gallipoli landings ever since and Anzac Day has been a public holiday since 1921. On this day people gather to acknowledge the sacrifice of all those who have […]
April 16, 2024
Hybrid Working – Here to Stay
The COVID-19 pandemic saw us adapt to new ways of working. While the lockdowns and mandates may be a distant memory, there are a significant number of employers that continue to allow, and even encourage, employees to work from home on either a full-time or part-time basis (the hybrid model). A 2021 report by the […]
March 26, 2024
Public Holiday Refresh – Easter 2024
As we approach the Easter long weekend, it is a good time to reflect and refresh our understanding of obligations and entitlements on public holidays. In this article we review the rights and obligations of employers and employees with a specific focus on the Easter Weekend. Public Holidays In New Zealand there each employee is […]
March 24, 2024
Dealing with Workplace Burnout
A 2023 report found that employees in New Zealand were more likely to suffer from workplace burnout than any other country globally (70% versus the global average of 59%).[1] The report, published by global workplace strategy and design experts, Unispace, found that half of the employees surveyed cited workload as the main driver of […]
March 7, 2024
Women in the Workplace: It’s 2024; where are we at? (International Women’s Day)
8 March 2024 is International Women’s Day. It is a day that celebrates the successes of women, but also reminds us of the work still to go. While New Zealand women have come a long way in paving the way for equal and fair treatment in the workplace; an 8.6% pay gap still exists. In […]
February 14, 2024
Managing romantic relationships in the workplace – A guide for employers
Romantic relationships in the workplace also known as office romances or workplace romances are common and many successful couples met at work. However, office romances can often pose unique challenges and potential risks to organisations and its people. Accordingly, it is crucial for employers to take active steps to navigate through the challenges and risks […]