NZ Employment Law: What Changed in 2026 & What’s Next?

Reflect on the year, stay informed and prepare for what’s next. From changes to employment relations and contractor classifications to the landmark reform of New Zealand’s leave legislation, 2026 has brought significant developments for employers. Understanding what has changed, what’s now in effect and what lies ahead is essential for HR professionals, business owners and leaders navigating New Zealand’s evolving employment landscape.

Join Employment Hero’s local Employment Counsel, Sanam Permal, for a concise wrap-up of the key employment law developments from 2026 and what employers should be prioritising as they prepare for the year ahead. 

Together we’ll unpack:

• Employment Relations Amendment Act: Where are we now? Have the changes to personal grievance remedies, the high-income threshold for unjustified dismissal claims and the contractor gateway test been tested in practice?
• Employment Leave Act 2026: What guidance is available, what do we know so far, and what should employers be doing now to prepare for the new leave framework?
• Health and safety reforms: With changes scheduled to take effect from April 2027, what should employers understand and prioritise in Q1?
• Minimum wage in 2027: What do we know so far, and what should employers be watching for?
• The post-election landscape: Could a change in government mean further shifts to employment law and workplace policy in 2027?

Employment law doesn’t stand still. This session will help you understand where things stand today, make sense of the developments from 2026 and identify what to watch, review and prepare for as you head into 2027.

Disclaimer: The information in this webinar is current as at Nov 25, 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.