September Newsletter

1. Record Fine in Health and Safety Case That Sets Legal Firsts
An Auckland concrete manufacturing company was fined $225,000 in the Papakura District Court... read more >>

2. Drug Testing
When one looks at the issue of testing in the workplace, there are many conflicting rights. On one hand, the community rightly expects healthy and safe workplaces. On the other, there is the individual's right to be free from unreasonable search and the right to privacy.... read more >>

3. Contractor or Employee
This can sometimes be a really difficult question to answer. If you are engaging worker, you need to be really clear about the worker's status, and take advice before the relationship begins. ...  read more >>

4. Redundancy
Following the correct process for redundancy terminations is essential - you may be able to show that the redundancy is necessary, but if you get the process wrong the dismissal may be unjustifiable - and costly.. read more >>

5. Dismissal for Illness or Injury
While dismissing an employee when they are sick could potentially invite criticism for being heartless; an employer legitimately needs to know whether they will have staff to run a successful business... read more >>

6. Holidays Act - 4 weeks go to 5?
In the course of the past year a number of decisions have been issued, dealing with key provisions of the Holidays Act 2003 .. read more >>

7. Can public holidays be transferred to another day ?
Under the Holidays Act 2003 employees and employers can agree to observe public holidays on different days, providing the intention is not to reduce the number of public holidays to which an employee becomes entitled. .. read more >>

8. Can alternative holidays be taken in conjunction with their annual leave entitlement?
New Zealand Fire Service Commission v New Zealand Professional Fire-fighters Union.. read more >>

9. KiwiSaver update
Please note that not only are Employers required by law to provide a copy of the IRD Employee KiwiSaver pack and a copy of their preferred providers (if the employer has chosen a preferred provider) investment statement to all new employees within 7 days of commencing employment, but they are also required.. read more >>

10. Minimum Wage - Change on the law!!!!
The Minimum Wage (New Entrants) Amendment Bill was passed on 5 September 2007.
The effect of this legislation is that: .. read more >>

11. Unsolicited Electronic Messages Act 2007
The Act comes into force with effect from 5th September 2007. It is intended to stop unsolicited electronic communication. Of primary interest to business is email, but the Act also covers SMS (text messaging) for example. It does not include fax or voice. .. read more >>

12. Employment Contracts Creator UPGRADE
Update your Contracts software. New Holidays Act information and several other important changes in law mean business owners have to take several actions to comply with law.:.. read more >>

13. We have moved
Please note our new contact details :.. read more >>