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: 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 ChecklistPreparing for the Minimum Wage Increase on 1 April 2024 Resources: Minimum wage set for 2026 - MBIEKiwiSaver 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.

Guess who’s back… and newly married! After a couple months away for a big, bold, beautiful and very chaotic wedding, Sanam is back behind the mic! And she is ready to dive into the latest shake up in New Zealand employment law. The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 has officially passed. That means new rules, new thresholds, and plenty of questions for employers. What does the contractor gateway test actually mean in practice? Does the $200k unjustified dismissal threshold change the game? And do businesses need to do now? This episode is a quick catch up and an open invitation to the Law Lenz community. Send through your questions and Sanam will tackle them in next week’s deep dive. Send your questions: On LinkedIn HEREasklawlenz@gmail.com Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! 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.

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.

Restraints of trade are one of the most misunderstood clauses in New Zealand employment agreements. Some employees think they are meaningless. Some employers think they are bulletproof. Both assumptions can land you in trouble. In this episode, host Sanam unpacks how restraints actually work in practice and why the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) has moved well past the idea that they are “not worth the paper they’re written on”. Drawing on real world examples and ERA cases, this episode focuses on what genuinely makes a restraint enforceable. You’ll hear why reasonableness is everything, why overreaching is risky, and why evidence matters more than intention. In this episode, Sanam covers: If restraints have ever felt confusing, intimidating, or oddly ignored, this episode will bring you clarity and help you adapt them to your business. Don't miss our updates and legal 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: Cookright Filtering Services v Hill & ThomasCookright Filtering Services v Hill & Thomas (Cost Determination)What is a Restraint of Trade in New Zealand? - Legal Vision NZNon-Solicitation Restraint Clause Example - MBIE Employment Agreement Builder 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.

You’ve just been hit with a personal grievance. Stress is high and the stakes feel even higher. The last thing you need is confusion about who to turn to or how to brief them. In this episode, host Sanam talks through the difference between lawyers, advocates and consultants, and how to decide who is the best fit for you. She also shares what to say when you meet with them, how to avoid wasting time and money, and a simple framework you can use to keep the conversation clear and focused. By the end, you’ll know how to find the right representative, ask the right questions, and walk into that meeting confident and prepared. 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: Find a lawyer - NZ Law SocietyRepresentatives, help and advice - 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.

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 LawyersDiscrimination at work - NZ GovernmentTurner v. Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand, in respect of the former Wairarapa District Health Board [2023] NZEmpC 158 - Employment Court CasePros and cons to political discussions at work: survey - HRD Mag NZPolitical 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.

Pay secrecy in New Zealand workplaces is on its way out! With the Employment Relations (Employee Remuneration Disclosure) Amendment Bill moving through Parliament, employers will soon no longer be able to rely on confidentiality clauses to stop staff talking about pay. This is more than a legal technicality. It’s a cultural shift that will shape workplace transparency, trust, and team dynamics. It's critical to know how the law applies to you, but also what to expect when the change officially comes into place. Employers and HR need to be ready for the questions, the comparisons, and the conversations that will follow. In this episode, join our host Sanam as she breaks down what the bill is really about, what’s changing, and the new personal grievance risks. She will also share practical steps to prepare now. From auditing pay structures to reviewing employment agreements, building your comms plan, and training managers. This one is for HR professionals, business owners, and leaders across every industry in New Zealand who want to stay compliant and confident before the law changes hit. 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: Employment Relations (Employee Remuneration Disclosure) Amendment Bill - Parliament NZNew Zealand businesses urged to prepare for pay secrecy law - CFOtech articleLegislation that lets workers talk about salaries likely to pass into law - RNZ 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.

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.

Job advertisements are often overlooked in the compliance conversation, but under New Zealand employment law, they matter more than you might think. The language you use can shape your brand, attract the right candidates, or land you in legal trouble (yikes!). In this episode, join host Sanam as she breaks down the legal risks hidden in everyday job ads. From subtle bias in wording to outright discriminatory requirements. You’ll learn what makes a job advertisement lawful, what crosses the legal line, and when exceptions might genuinely apply. Expect practical, real-world examples of non-compliant job ads, why they don’t meet the legal standard, and how to rewrite them in a way that is inclusive, accurate, and compliant. This episode covers: If you’re an HR professional, hiring manager or business owner involved in hiring, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to strengthen your recruitment process and protect your business. 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: Discrimination & prohibited grounds - 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.

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: 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.

Dismissing an employee always feels scary. Even if you think you've got it in the bag, you’re left wondering… have I done everything right? Because the reality is when you get it wrong, it can cost you time, trust, and cash. So what does “getting it right” actually look like? In this episode, we're diving into a real-life case from the Employment Relations Authority involving a shift manager, suspicious GPS data, and a whole lot of time spent… not working. But this isn’t just about what the employee did wrong. It’s about what the employer did right! From the investigation to the disciplinary process, this is a masterclass in handling serious misconduct, maintaining procedural fairness, and making a dismissal stand up legally. Join Sanam as she breaks down: If you’re an employer, HR lead, people manager or business owner thinking, “I know something’s off, but I’m not sure what to do next”, this one’s for you. Because when it comes to dismissals, being fair and reasonable isn’t optional. It’s the law. 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: Sahil v First Security - ERA Determination 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: 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.

The minimum wage increase is just around the corner - 1 April 2025 isn’t far away. The big question is, are you ready? Many employers focus on payroll adjustments, but there’s a lot more to consider. From pay parity concerns to budgeting strategies, pricing reviews, and employee conversations, this episode breaks down everything you actually need to consider. Join host Sanam as she walks through key steps to ensure a smooth transition, avoid last-minute payroll headaches, and keep your team engaged. Whether you're a small business owner or an HR leader, this quick checklist will help you navigate the increase with confidence. Tune in now and get ahead before 1 April! 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: Minimum wage set for 2025 - 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.

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: 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 BillZhang v Panda Restaurant Ltd [2024] - Employment NZWage Theft Bill Explanatory Note - Parliament NZLabour’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.

Big changes are coming to New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). The government is rolling out a series of reforms throughout 2025, fundamentally shifting the way employers hire and retain migrant workers. So, what’s changing? From scrapping the median wage requirement to adjusting job check processes, reducing experience thresholds, and introducing new seasonal visa pathways, these reforms are designed to address skill shortages while maintaining fairness in the job market. In this episode, join host Sanam as she breaks down the key updates, including: If you employ migrant workers, these changes will affect you. Tune in to get the full breakdown so you can stay ahead of the curve. 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: Reforms to Accredited Employer Work Visa announced - Immigration New ZealandAccredited Employer Work Visa changes - Dentons 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.

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: 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 BeehiveRemoving rewards for poor employee behaviour - The BeehiveRestraint of Trade Bill Minimum wage increase - Employment NZMinister 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 WayUnpack 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: 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 EpisodeAnnual 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 2015Managing 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.