Employment law updates 2026

2026 is already proving eventful when it comes to New Zealand employment law. Significant changes to the Employment Relations Act have now come into force, while an upcoming increase to the Kiwisaver default contribution could have ripple effects on many employer budgets. 

And, with the general election set for November 2026, we can expect to see even more changes to employment law in the coming months. 

As employers, it’s critical that you stay up to date with the latest information. In this factsheet, we’ll be covering all the new updates, as well as the ones in the works. This includes:

• Amendments to the Employment Relations Act (including a new contractor gateway test)
• A minimum wage increase
• Changes to the default Kiwisaver contribution
• Pay deductions on partial strikes
• Wage theft
• Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa
• Pay disclosure legislation
• Proposed reforms to health and safety law
• The potential replacement of the Holidays Act with a new Employment Leave Act

Understand your employer obligations with our 2026 Employment Law updates, so you can boost your compliance confidence and get back to focusing on growing your business. 

The information in this article is current as at 30 October 2025, 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 article are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. Some 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 directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.