ERS provides trusted, senior employment relations advice and representation for employers, unions and organisations across Auckland and throughout New Zealand.
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Restructuring steps including selection process
During the first part of 2025 I provided many clients with assistance to restructure. While most businesses understand they need substantive justification for the changes they are proposing and then must follow a procedurally fair process, many are not as familiar with the requirement to consult over selection criteria. Where a business has a pool […]
Abandonment of Employment
I field many enquiries regarding situations that are described as “abandonment of employment”. Today I will share information on your obligations as an employer in this area. An employee may have abandoned their employment when they are absent from work for an extended period of time without explanation. Not all unauthorised absences are abandonment. Not […]
Interpersonal Workplace Conflict
In this newsletter I provide guidance on how to effectively address interpersonal conflict in the workplace before it escalates into allegations of bullying or harassment. As a licensed investigator of harassment and bullying, sexual harassment and general investigations, I see first-hand the lost opportunities within organisations to take proactive steps to manage these disputes before […]
Conditional Offers of Employment
A recent decision involving Fire and Emergency New Zealand has explored the area of “Conditional Offers of Employment”. In KNN v Fire and Emergency New Zealand [2025] an appointment was made conditionally pursuant to the Fire and Emergency Act 2017 (the FENZ Act). A completed review in their favour was required for the employment to […]
Employer Guide to Medicinal Cannabis
In this Newsletter I provide a guide provided by the New Zealand Drug Foundation (attached) to assist you in navigating the issue of medicinal cannabis in the workplace. Understanding Medicinal Cannabis Legal Status: Medicinal cannabis is a prescription-only pharmaceutical product accessed through the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme (since April 2020). It must meet minimum quality standards […]