NZ Employment Law 2026 Forecast

Start the year informed, aligned and ready to act. From pay secrecy protections to changes under the Employment Relations and Holidays Acts, it is essential for HR professionals, business owners and leaders to stay up to date and proactively prepare for what lies ahead in New Zealand employment law.

Join Employment Hero’s local Employment Counsel, Sanam Ahmadzadeh Salmani for a concise overview of the key employment law changes from 2025, followed by an outline of the important shifts shaping 2026 and beyond. Together, we will unpack what has changed, what is coming and what HR leaders and business owners should prioritise to stay compliant, confident and people first in the year ahead.

Key employment law changes from 2025

• Criminalising wage theft
• Pay secrecy protections
• Access to Employment Agreements

Forecasted for 2026 and beyond

• Employment Relations Amendment Bill
  • High-income threshold for unjustified dismissal
  • Reform of personal grievance remedies
  • Contractor ‘Gateway Test’
• Employment Leave Act
• KiwiSaver contribution changes
• Minimum wage increase from 1 April 2026

Employment law continues to evolve and keeping pace is not optional. This session is designed to help Kiwi businesses move beyond reactive compliance and into proactive ownership of your employment obligations, setting your business up for a strong and sustainable year.

Disclaimer: The information in this webinar is current as at January 28 2026, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this webinar are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. The Information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising either directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this webinar. You should undertake your own research and to seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this webinar.