Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

The two biggest payroll changes of the year land on the same day! In this episode, join Sanam as she breaks down exactly what changes are coming up on 1 April 2026, what you need to do before your first April pay run, and the questions that are front of mind for employers. Sanam covers: The change to KiwiSaver default rates The pay date rule that trips people up when a pay period crosses 1 April What to do when an employee says they can't afford the increase The employer contribution trap when a temporary rate reduction expires Employer KiwiSaver contributions for 16 and 17-year-olds The minimum wage increase Tune in and have those burning KiwiSaver questions answered by Sanam. Whether you have two employees or two hundred, these changes apply to you. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow me on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Send them our way, and I will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com. Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. Other Minimum Wage Episodes: Minimum Wage is Increasing! Here's Your Quick 2025 Checklist Preparing for the Minimum Wage Increase on 1 April 2024 Resources: Minimum wage set for 2026 - MBIE KiwiSaver changes - IRD 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.

Engaging a contractor usually starts with good intentions. Sometimes it can end with you realising you have an employee on your hands instead. This bite sized breakdown gives you a practical look at why contractor arrangements often fall apart when you move from paper to practice. In this episode, join me, Sanam, as I unpack what a true contractor actually looks like in the real world. Not in theory. Not in templates. In practice. Using everyday examples like plumbers, cleaners, writers and gig workers, this episode explores how contractors should operate day to day. It covers the exact factors the Employment Relations Authority and the Courts focus on when deciding whether someone is genuinely independent or actually an employee. Think control, independence, risk, tools, and how integrated they really are. You will also hear why the legal test does not suddenly change just because the work is modern, digital, or part of the gig economy. Plus a quick update on the contractor law reforms that may be coming later this year, and what still applies right now in New Zealand. Perfect for a coffee break listen. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow me on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Send them our way, and I will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com. Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. Resources: Employee or Contractor - MBIE 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.

Is the Holidays Act finally getting scrapped? The Coalition Government has officially announced plans to ditch the Holidays Act and replace it with a new Employment Leave Act. If your brain immediately went to “uh oh… payroll,” you’re not alone! In this episode, join host Sanam as she breaks down everything we know so far about the announcement. From key changes to what the new rules mean for different types of workers, this episode covers everything you need to know. The road ahead is long, but this episode sets the scene and gives you a solid foundation to start preparing your business now. Want the full breakdown of the Employment Leave Act, including FAQs, timelines, comparison tables and a 3-phase action plan? [CLICK HERE] to download your free guide now! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! 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: Holidays Act reform - Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment 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 shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk has ignited global conversations about free speech, politics, and the boundaries of expression. But how does this play out in your workplace? In New Zealand, political expression by employees is a legal minefield. Employers must carefully balance freedom of expression with the duty to protect reputation, maintain trust, and comply with employment law standards. In this episode, host Sanam breaks down the rules around political conversations at work. Here's what we'll cover: When an employee’s political opinions cross the line into misconduct How the Employment Relations Authority and Courts assess off-duty social media posts The tricky space for public sector employees under the their guidelines and framework Why “freedom of expression” is not a free pass in the NZ employment context Using recent cases and real-world examples, Sanam unpacks what NZ employers need to know about politics in the workplace. Because when global headlines collide with workplace compliance, you need more than opinions. You need to know your rights. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Need help figuring out if you have the right worker on your hands? Download the ‘Who’s Your Worker?’ guide HERE - this is a FREE resource packed with top tips, FAQs, quizzes + more to help you classify your worker with confidence. Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. 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: Talking politics at work a bad idea - Wmrk Lawyers Discrimination at work - NZ Government Turner v. Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand, in respect of the former Wairarapa District Health Board [2023] NZEmpC 158 - Employment Court Case Pros and cons to political discussions at work: survey - HRD Mag NZ Political opinions at work: when is it grounds for dismissal? - HRD Mag 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.

The Coldplay kiss cam broke the internet last week and no one expected to see a CEO and CPO (yep, the head of HR!) in the spotlight. But beyond the headlines lies a much juicier compliance dilemma. We recognise that many employers across New Zealand probably haven't even thought about workplace relationships or where they can go wrong. In this episode, host Sanam pulls apart the legal implications of workplace romances, especially when the power dynamic is off-kilter. She unpacks the real-life case of Raravula v Northern Rescue Helicopter Ltd [2025] NZERA 238, where a workplace romance collided with serious employment consequences. You’ll learn: Whether NZ employers can actually "ban" relationships at work When disciplinary action could be justified How to manage risks without overstepping legal boundaries The key lessons from the Raravula case (and what Northern Rescue got right and wrong) If you’re in HR, lead a team, or just love a good case breakdown with a side of legal tea - this one’s for you. Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Need help figuring out if you have the right worker on your hands? Download the ‘Who’s Your Worker?’ guide HERE - this is a FREE resource packed with top tips, FAQs, quizzes + more to help you classify your worker with confidence. Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. 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: ERA Determination Raravula v Northern Rescue Helicopter Ltd - Employment Relations Authority 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.

In this Ask Law Lenz episode, we tackle one of the most common and misunderstood questions in New Zealand workplaces: “Can I just hire them as a casual?” While it might be easy to label someone a casual employee, ensuring they actually are casual in the eyes of the law is a whole different story. Join host Sanam as she unpacks what legally defines a casual employee under New Zealand employment law, busts common myths, and highlights red flags that could mean your so-called “casual” is really a permanent employee in disguise. In this episode, Sanam covers: The legal definition of casual employment in New Zealand How casual, "part-time", and permanent roles differ Common mistakes employers make when classifying workers Best practices for managing casual employment the right way Real case examples where casual missteps led to big consequences A step-by-step guide to help you confidently classify your workers (HERE) Whether you’re in HR, managing a small business, or an employer trying to stay compliant, this episode is packed with practical information to help you navigate casual employment. Tune in to find out: is your employee really a casual, or just labelled one? Need help figuring it out? Download the ‘Who’s Your Worker?’ guide HERE - this is a FREE resource packed with top tips, FAQs, quizzes + more to help you classify with confidence. Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Check out Lisa Young’s HRHQ Membership HERE! Feel supported with tailored guidance, content and access to a massive HR community. Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. 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: Casual employment - MBIE 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.

Law Lenz is officially back from break! While we were gone, employment law kept on moving. So much so, that on 13 May 2025, the Coalition Government passed urgent changes to New Zealand’s Equal Pay laws. By introducing hierarchical comparators, that claims must have "merit" and redefining what counts as a female-dominated workforce, the changes have impacted employees across industries such as healthcare, teaching and corrections. As the changes have swept the nation, it has caused major outrage and controversy. In this episode, join host Sanam as she breaks down: What changed in NZ’s pay equity legislation Why the Coalition Government says the changes were necessary What the unions and opposition party thinks The controversy of equal pay and the Federal Budget What other countries have done with their pay equity systems The current real-life impact across NZ Whether you're a compliance guru, a business owner, or just want to understand how gender, politics and budgets collide, this bite-sized episode is your go-to explainer. 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: Changes to improve pay equity process - Beehive Equal Pay Amendment Bill - NZ Parliament ‘Women’s pay' and ‘retirement funds’ paying for Budget 2025, Labour says - Stuff article 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 theft has become a major topic of debate, especially with Australia recently criminalising intentional underpayments. The conversation has recently resurfaced in New Zealand and it seems we may be following suit. In this episode, we explore New Zealand’s Wage Theft Bill, officially known as the Crimes (Theft by Employer) Amendment Bill. This proposed law aims to make it a criminal offense for employers to intentionally withhold wages, salaries, or entitlements. But what does that actually mean in practice? Join host, Sanam, as she breaks down: The current laws and penalties relating to unpaid wages Why the Wage Theft Bill was introduced Employer obligations if the Bill becomes law The challenge of proving intent in wage theft cases The political debate surrounding the Bill and its impact on businesses With hundreds of wage arrear cases over the past five years, the question is whether this Bill is necessary, or whether this is an unnecessary burden on employers? If you want to know what this means for you and your business, then tune in for a deep dive into wage theft. Craving more insights? Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. 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: Crimes (Theft by Employer) Amendment Bill Zhang v Panda Restaurant Ltd [2024] - Employment NZ Wage Theft Bill Explanatory Note - Parliament NZ Labour’s Wage Theft Bill Gets Support from NZ First - The Post 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.