Changes to New Zealand’s Employment Law: What You Need to Know
When did the Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 come into force? The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 came into force on 21 February 2026. This legislation made significant changes to the existing Employment Relations Act 2000. The Act redefined certain aspects of employment law, primarily focusing on three areas: Understanding the New “Gateway Test” for […]
Managing New Zealand Employment Obligations During a Crisis
New Zealand businesses often face disruptions from emergencies like fuel shortages, extreme weather, or public health crises. During these times, employers must maintain their good faith obligations while managing staff and operations. Practical planning and early consultation are essential to overcoming hurdles like commuting issues or stalled deliveries. How should New Zealand employers prepare for […]
Rice Craig welcomes Rani Amaranathan as new Partner
Rice Craig is pleased to announce Rani Amaranathan has become a partner of the firm from 1 January 2025. Rani has been at Rice Craig for 15 years and specialises in employment law, civil litigation and workplace investigations. “Being appointed as a partner at Rice Craig is a tremendous honour,” says Rani Amaranathan. “I am […]
Introducing Samuel Johnston: Continuing the Legacy of Excellence at Rice Craig following the retirement of John Sieprath
We are pleased to announce that Samuel Johnston has taken over the practice of John Sieprath, who has retired after many years of dedicated service at Rice Craig. Sam, a seasoned legal professional with an exceptional background, is poised to continue and enhance the high standards of legal excellence that clients have come to expect. […]
Rights and Obligations when the Employment Relationship Ends
RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS AFTER TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT: CURRENT ISSUES “Breaking up is hard to do”. This can apply to all relationships, including the employment relationship. We commonly see disputes arise about “who gets what” when the employment relationship ends. Below are some recent issues our clients have faced after termination of employment. We find these […]
Centenary Celebrations
Rice Craig, the largest and most successful law office between Auckland and Hamilton, celebrated its 100th anniversary in practice on 17 March 2024. The firm was started by Stephen Rice 100 years ago. The celebrations were held at the Hilton Hotel in Karaka, and it was a fun event to be among such esteemed friends, […]
Trust Busting: a new Inheritance Act and Property at Death
On 28 May 2022, the New Zealand Herald published an article titled, “Trust busting: Inheritance, divorce law changes mean assets will no longer be safe.” It reported on the New Zealand Law Commission’s “Review of Succession Law Report.” The key question addressed by the Law Commission was: Who has rights to a person’s property on […]
End to Working from Home
Back to the office for good or is working from home a new normal? During the pandemic many employees worked from home. Now that it is safer to return to the workplace, with a highly vaccinated population and the end of New Zealand’s COVID-19 Protection Framework (traffic light system), some employers are strongly encouraging staff […]
Uncertain times call for certain contracts – Current issues plaguing Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate
With rising interest rates, tougher loan restrictions, and a looming possible recession vendors and purchasers need to best protect themselves when entering into Agreements for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate. These protections are vital in a housing market where prices are declining. Below we outline some common issues that we have encountered thus far […]
Employment Law Changes in 2021
New changes to workplace relations aiming to improve legislation around pay equity, sick leave entitlements and the minimum wage has been enacted. The main changes that both employers and employees should be aware of are: Minimum Wage Increase The minimum wage has increased from $18.90 to $20 per hour effective 1 April 2021. Sick Leave […]