Knowledge

High-Income Threshold Removes Dismissal Rights: What Could Happen Next? The intended and unintended consequences.  A new law is on the horizon that could change workplace rights for high earners.  Our previous article discusses how under the proposed legislation, anyone making over $180,000 a year will no longer have the automatic right to claim unjustified dismissal. […]

The government is planning a series of employment law changes in 2025, many of which stem from the ACT – National Party of New Zealand Coalition Commitment. One notable change is a proposed income threshold for unjustified dismissal claims. If passed, employees earning over $180,000 per year will no longer have the automatic right to […]

We’re proud to celebrate Black Door Law Founder, Caroline (Caro) Rieger, who has been named one of the 2025 Law Firm Leaders of the Year by NZ Lawyer and Australasian Lawyer! This recognition comes after a rigorous selection process conducted by a 30+ member Intelligence Unit, combining extensive research and industry feedback to identify the […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]