16 Jun 2025
Workers could be worse off under potential change to sick leave
Government plans to change the number of paid sick days workers can take could leave part time employees worse off. Since changes in 2021 New Zealand workers are legally entitled to ten paid sick days a year,regardless of how many hours or days they work. But the government's looking to change to a pro rata system or proportional leave; where sick day allowances will be different for part and full time workers. The Prime Minister confirmed the review, but says the exact details are yet to be decided. Workplace Relations Minister Brooke Van Velden, who will lead any changes, spoke to Lisa Owen.