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  • COVID-19 Protection Framework supported by new testing and contact tracing strategy
    26 November 2021

    The EMA welcomes the Government’s announcement of support for Auckland business in particular, and the new COVID-19 protection framework which aims to move away from lockdowns and enable businesses and events to full re-open to vaccinated New Zealand

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  • Border reopening a relief for business
    25 November 2021

    Exporters will be queueing to get back into their Australian and international markets in January and February next year, predicts EMA Chief Executive, Brett O’Riley.

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  • Clarity around border welcomed but still uncertainty around business reopening
    17 November 2021

    The EMA says while it is good to have clarity about the Auckland border reopening on December 15, it remains concerned about a firm reopening date for business.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 22 October 2021
    22 October 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a compliance order imposed with interest and an overpayment made by an employer which seen as a genuine administrative error.

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  • Clear plan welcome, implementation critical
    22 October 2021

    The EMA welcomes the Government’s announcement of support for Auckland business in particular, and the new COVID-19 protection framework which aims to move away from lockdowns and enable businesses and events to full re-open to vaccinated New Zealand

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  • UK FTA ‘Back to the Future’
    21 October 2021

    Today’s announcement of a comprehensive new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom will offer some welcome variation in market access to New Zealand exporters, say the EMA.

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  • National plan rightly rewards vaccination efforts
    20 October 2021

    The EMA says recognising vaccination efforts and freeing up restrictions for those vaccinated in the workplace and in their everyday lives is a welcome approach in the National Party’s ‘Back in Business’ plan released this morning.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 15 October 2021
    15 October 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about the High Court dismissed challenge against COVID-19 vaccination order, unjustified suspension and disciplinary processes upheld.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 8 October 2021
    8 October 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a dismissal for non-vaccination held to be justified, an employer withholding entitlements for public holidays.

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  • Call for precise plan for getting people back into workplaces
    8 October 2021

    The EMA is asking for a precise plan for getting businesses and their people back to work that goes well beyond the confusing and vague Auckland Alert Level 3 stepped process that offers virtually nothing for business.

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  • Make vaccine passports mandatory in the workplace
    6 October 2021

    The EMA is asking for the mandatory carrying of digital vaccine passports to enter the workplace, with digital exemptions and extra precautions applying to those who can’t or choose not to be vaccinated.

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  • Closed borders not an option under reduced Auckland alert level
    4 October 2021

    New Zealand’s three leading business organisations are dismayed at the Prime Minister’s announcement to continue the iron ring around Auckland next week if alert levels change.

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  • COVID-19 Update: Auckland remains at Alert Level 3, with less restrictions
    4 October 2021

    Auckland remains at Alert Level 3, but with reduced restrictions from midnight tomorrow, October 5. Parts of the Waikato also remain in Alert Level 3 to the end of the week, and the rest of the country remains at Alert Level 2.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 1 October 2021
    1 October 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an application for interim reinstatement that was declined, and funding cuts upheld as sufficient justification for redundancy.

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  • Biggest immigration change in decades applauded
    30 September 2021

    The most significant immigration change in decades will be welcomed by businesses struggling to retain and find staff and a huge relief for migrant workers and their families struggling with the uncertainty about their futures, says the EMA.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 24 September 2021
    24 September 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about the minimum entitlements of vulnerable employees breached over four years and a compliance order issued against an employer.

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  • Auckland savaged by COVID restrictions
    21 September 2021

    The savage impact of Level 4 lockdown on businesses is shown in a recent BusinessNZ Network survey, EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 17 September 2021
    17 September 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a failure to consult for conduct and restructure led to unjustifiable dismissals.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 10 September 2021
    10 September 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employer who failed to act fair and reasonable in a redundancy process, an application to transfer paid parental leave payments made too late and more.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 03 September 2021
    3 September 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about compliance orders, sexual harassment in imbalanced employment relationship and a secret recording by employee deemed admissible.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 27 August 2021
    27 August 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about claims for constructive dismissal and disadvantage, non compliance with earlier determinations led to costs and wage arrears.

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  • COVID-19 Update: Country-wide Alert Level 4 lockdown continues
    27 August 2021

    The entire country remains at Alert Level 4 until midnight on Tuesday, August 31. It has also been signaled that Auckland is likely to remain in lockdown for at least a week after that, likely two. More details on boundaries will come tomorrow.

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  • EMA Advocacy in Action
    25 August 2021

    The nationwide lockdown forced an abrupt switch of focus in our Advocacy programme but there are still some business-as-usual issues that remain a key focus for the EMA’s Advocacy team.

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  • COVID-19 Update: Country-wide Alert Level 4 lockdown continues
    23 August 2021

    The entire country remains at Alert Level 4 until midnight this Friday, August 27, and Auckland until midnight on Tuesday, August 31.

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  • COVID-19 Update: Country-wide Alert Level 4 lockdown continues
    21 August 2021

    The entire country remains at Alert Level 4 for the full seven days, until midnight on Tuesday, August 24. As of today, Saturday August 21, there are 51 cases confirmed infected by the latest outbreak of COVID-19.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 20 August 2021
    20 August 2021

    In this weeks’ Employer Bulletin, read about an employer who was able to keep the wage subsidy following the termination of an employee, a failure to make an agreed payment which disadvantaged an employee and more.

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  • COVID-19 Update: Country-wide Alert Level 4 lockdown
    17 August 2021

    The three-day Alert Level 4 lockdown from midnight tonight for the whole country, and seven days for Auckland and Coromandel, does not come as a complete surprise.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 13 August 2021
    13 August 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about breaches against migrant employees, unlawful final pay deductions and a heated situation that resulted in constructive dismissal.

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  • Reconnecting plan positive but parts need to be turbo-charged
    12 August 2021

    The EMA says the plan for reconnecting New Zealand to the world will be a relief to those in the business community needing to travel but pressing issues remain with the current system.

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  • Survey reveals how employees are really feeling about their work
    11 August 2021

    It really is the small things that count - that is one of the key findings revealed as part of the inaugural EMA Workplace Wellbeing Survey in partnership with nib. The online survey of nearly 600 people - spanning all business sizes, sectors and fro

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 06 August 2021
    6 August 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about determination of confidential information in mediation, a breach of a Record of Settlement and an employee's breach of implied terms.

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  • Immigration issues widen the skills chasm
    4 August 2021

    The skills gap is now a skills chasm for New Zealand and there is no solution that does not include people crossing our borders and being able to isolate. We are doing lasting damage to our businesses and impacting the wellbeing of their managers, wo

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  • COVID-19 Response Update - Suspension of QFT travel with Australia
    23 July 2021

    Quarantine-free travel from Australia is being suspended from midnight 23 July with a 7 day window for people currently in Australia (except NSW) who ordinarily live in New Zealand.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 23 July 2021
    23 July 2021

    In the latest edition of Employer Bulletin you can read about an employee who was not paid wages during the employment relationship and an interim injunction sought to enforce a restraint of trade provision.

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  • Simplifying and streamlining some visas a good start
    16 July 2021

    The EMA is pleased to see the Government is increasing the duration of the Essential Skills visas and streamlining the application process to smooth the way for employers and their people.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 16 July 2021
    16 July 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a bullying allegation against a manager, an intentional breach of a settlement agreement and a procedurally flawed restructure process.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 09 July 2021
    9 July 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a bullying allegation against a manager, an intentional breach of a settlement agreement and a procedurally flawed restructure process.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 02 July 2021
    2 July 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about how the pressures of COVID-19 did not negate employer obligations, penalties sought for the breach of a settlement agreement and an employer who failed to check compliance with employment legislation.

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  • Top three things about 10-days’ sick leave
    2 July 2021

    On the 24th of this month everyone will be entitled to 10-days’ sick leave instead of five. And while we might think this is a solution looking for a problem – on average only 4.7 per cent of the five days are used per year – it is something everyone

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  • Z Energy’s Mike Bennetts on meeting the climate change challenge
    1 July 2021

    Z Energy’s leadership is very open about the fact that climate change will 100 per cent change the game for a business that was built around selling fossil fuels. It already has.

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  • Replacement RMA on right track but much work still to be done
    29 June 2021

    The EMA says the proposed Natural and Built Environments Act is tracking in the right direction but there is still much work to be done in replacing the outdated Resource Management Act (RMA).

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 25 June 2021
    25 June 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about the ending of a fixed term agreement inconsistent with its provisions, breaches of a settlement agreement and a breach of good faith.

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  • NZ COVID Tracer QR code key to keeping safe
    23 June 2021

    EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley is urging businesses to continue their vigilance with displaying the NZ COVID Tracer QR code and encouraging people to use it.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 18 June 2021
    18 June 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employee constructively dismissed when hours reduced and employee unjustifiably dismissed via redundancy during COVID-19.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 11 June 2021
    11 June 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a casual employee who challenged the nature of their employment, an employee who was unjustifiably dismissed and disadvantaged and a minor procedural defect which did not flaw a disciplinary process.

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  • Business needs climate change action to be equitable and achievable
    10 June 2021

    The EMA says the Climate Change Commission’s final recommendations on the pathway to a net carbon zero economy by 2050 still leave questions unanswered.

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  • Tough calls on transport to balance budget and get economy moving
    4 June 2021

    The EMA says the downgrade of the New Zealand Upgrade programme will make moving freight and people around Auckland and Northland more difficult.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 04 June 2021
    4 June 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employer who failed to follow fair procedure which lead to unjustified dismissal and interim reinstatement found to be inconvenient.

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  • Health and safety at the heart of Lifetime Achievement Award
    3 June 2021

    The EMA’s Paul Jarvie is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Safeguard New Zealand Health and Safety Awards, for the invaluable contribution he has made in advancing the level of professionalism in the industry.

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  • Mill news great for Whakatane and Eastern Bay of Plenty region
    31 May 2021

    Confirmation today that the Whakatane Mill continues to have a future is great news for the town, the wider region and the New Zealand pulp and paper industry, says the EMA.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 28 May 2021
    28 May 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about justifiable circumstances for breach of Record of Settlement and Shareholder claim outside Employment Relations Authority jurisdiction.

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  • More funding for economic recovery in the regions welcomed
    27 May 2021

    The EMA says the government’s announcement of a new fund to replace the Provincial Growth Fund is good news for the economic recovery of the regions.

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  • EMA Workplace Wellbeing Survey 2021 – in partnership with nib Health Insurance
    25 May 2021

    We are inviting you to complete the EMA Workplace Wellbeing Survey 2021 – in partnership with nib Health Insurance. We want to get a picture of your wellbeing challenges so we can help to address these.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 21 May 2021
    21 May 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about minimum wage questions removed to the Employment Court for resolution, an unjustified dismissal claim upheld but reinstatement declined and an employer ordered to pay an employee for each hour worked.

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  • No great benefits for business from the balanced Budget 2021
    20 May 2021

    The EMA says there is not much in Budget 2021 for business, but that is as expected.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 14 May 2021
    14 May 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an Application for Joinder, a variation without agreement, suspension followed by dismissal, privileged material and more.

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  • More spaces for skilled and critical workers’ welcome
    10 May 2021

    The EMA says its members will be pleased with today’s announcement that more spaces have been allocated in managed isolation facilities for skilled and critical workers.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 07 May 2021
    7 May 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a restraint of trade breach, a failed constructive dismissal claim and a medical retirement process upheld.

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  • No positive outcomes from FPA proposal
    7 May 2021

    The EMA says there will be no positive outcomes from the Fair Pay Agreement (FPA) proposal for businesses.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 30 April 2021
    30 April 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employee who was dismissed on grounds of “medical frustration”, directors ordered to pay penalties after breaches of holiday legislation and an employer’s refusal to pay guaranteed hours which led to a c

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 23 April 2021
    23 April 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a privacy breach, employee able to pursue a personal grievance as settlement not signed and an invalid 90-day trial period.

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  • Health reform goals should have positive impact on productivity
    21 April 2021

    The EMA says if the goals of the health reforms announced today are realised, productivity will increase as people will have a better base level of wellness which will enable them to work.

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  • Immigration policy review won’t address bigger picture
    21 April 2021

    The Productivity Commission’s call for a revised immigration policy to better meet the skills demand in New Zealand provides the prompt for a much bigger piece of work about a population strategy.

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  • Submission on the Immigration
    19 April 2021

    The EMA supports the need to have flexible immigration system, as stated in the General Policy Statement of the Bill.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 16 April 2021
    16 April 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about procedural deficiencies, assumed termination and an interim reinstatement application declined.

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  • Trans-Tasman quarantine-free travel
    12 April 2021

    Whether travelling for business or pleasure there are things you need to know about travel to and from Australia from April 18.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 09 April 2021
    9 April 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about unjustified dismissal, heat of the moment resignations not held to be resignations and unlawful deductions made from migrant employees.

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  • Trans-Tasman bubble critical first step
    6 April 2021

    The EMA says today’s announcement that the two-way trans-Tasman bubble will go ahead from midnight, April 18, will be welcomed by all businesses reliant on trade with Australia.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Thursday, 01 April 2021
    1 April 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employee who was not paid despite the wage subsidy being received by their employer, an employee’s claim for wage arrears upheld and termination on medical grounds deemed to be fair and reasonable.

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  • Business could do with a breather
    29 March 2021

    The call for a halt to new business-focused legislation for the next two years is an idea that has merit for a business community desperately in need of a breather, says the EMA.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 26 March 2021
    26 March 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a police check conducted, paid parental leave and reinstatement declined.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 19 March 2021
    19 March 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a privileged lawyer-client conversation, penalties for incorrect wage and holiday payments and incorrect reliance on a business interruption clause.

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  • Whakatane Mill closure terrible news
    16 March 2021

    The EMA says the announcement today that the Whakatane Mill is closing is terrible news for the management team, employees, and the wider community.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 12 March 2021
    12 March 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read an out of time personal grievance allowed, a Director liable for employer’s outstanding amounts and a migrant employee who was unjustifiably dismissed.

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  • Extra ATAP spend welcome but is the balance of transport modes right?
    12 March 2021

    The additional $500 million spend announced today as part of the revised $31 billion Auckland Transport Alignment Programme (ATAP) is welcome at a time when Auckland Council’s budget is under extreme pressure, says the EMA.

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  • Get Auckland back to Alert Level 1 to take advantage of weekend trade
    11 March 2021

    EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley is urging the Government to immediately return Auckland to Alert Level 1 after its cabinet meeting tomorrow rather than wait until 6am Sunday.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 05 March 2021
    5 March 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a debt management company who held debts against the wrong person, a dismissal both procedurally and substantively flawed and an employee unjustifiably dismissed three days into the 90-day trial period.

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  • Rolling restrictions highlight precarious business positions
    4 March 2021

    The recent series of alert level restrictions have shown just how close to the edge many businesses are being forced to operate with increasing numbers facing ever harder decisions.

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  • EMA echoes calls for more input into future management of COVID-19
    2 March 2021

    Calls by senior business leaders for more openness and cooperation around the Government’s plan for the ongoing management of COVID-19 are strongly supported by the EMA.

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  • Auckland back at Alert Level 3 and rest of country at Alert Level 2
    27 February 2021

    The Government announcement that Auckland is back to Alert Level 3 and the rest of New Zealand at Alert Level 2 for the next seven days is unwelcome.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 26 February 2021
    26 February 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employer who failed to investigate before dismissing an employee, a restructure consultation that was a charade and an employer who created a payment system to underpay migrant workers.

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  • Holidays Act overhaul short-term pain for long-term gain
    23 February 2021

    The EMA says its business members will welcome the overhaul of the Holidays Act, although it will potentially be challenging for them to implement.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 19 February 2021
    19 February 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin an out of time grievance, an alleged assault against an employer and interference in an employee’s private life.

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  • Resurgence Support Payment welcome for struggling businesses
    17 February 2021

    The rules have been changed with payments available to hard-hit businesses after seven days instead of 14, including at Alert Level 2.

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  • Speed and scale key to Auckland moving from Alert Level 3
    16 February 2021

    Being able to move quickly up - and down - the alert level scale will be the key to dealing with COVID-19 flare-ups in future.

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  • Border crossings easier for business at Alert Level 3
    15 February 2021

    The Government has set up an online system for workers needing to cross regional borders.

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  • Auckland back at Alert Level 3 and rest of country at Alert Level 2
    14 February 2021

    The Government has announced that as a precaution Auckland will go to Alert Level 3 for the next 72 hours from midnight tonight, February 14.

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  • Premium Article
    Vaccines another welcome tool to manage COVID-19
    12 February 2021

    The Government’s announcement today confirming the prioritised roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine will give Kiwis confidence of the country’s ongoing commitment to managing the pandemic.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 12 February 2021
    12 February 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an unjustified dismissal and breach for unpaid wages, the Employment Relations Authority required to determine remuneration owed to employee and a compliance order granted for a previous determination regar

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  • More money to hire people gives business a boost
    11 February 2021

    More money to hire people through the extension of Flexi-wage will save businesses money and provide more jobs.

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  • SMEs welcome additional Government support for employers
    9 February 2021

    The $350 Short Term Absences Payment for those off work awaiting COVID-19 test results is good news for employers, employees and those self-employed.

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  • ReTrain results in renewed passion for employment
    9 February 2021

    For Hinemihi Rikihana the ReTrain programme has given her the confidence and skills to pursue her passion and turn it into paid work.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 05 February 2021
    5 February 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a significant procedural omission in a restructure, a Director personally involved in a breach, and a relationship found to be one of employment.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 29 January 2021
    29 January 2021

    In this week’s Employer Bulletin an unlawful deductions clause, shortcomings in disciplinary process and an MBIE decision on parental leave payments reversed. Plus, we bring you the latest employment related news.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 22 January 2021
    22 January 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin an unjustified dismissal raised after the close of a business, bullying claim failed as no repeated behaviour and a contractor found to be an employee.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 15 January 2021
    15 January 2021

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a lockdown obligations regarding minimum wage, compensation and reimbursement for unjustified dismissal.

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  • Timing wrong for minimum wage rise
    22 December 2020

    The EMA says the long-planned minimum wage increase to $20 per hour is coming at precisely the wrong time for some of its members and many other New Zealand businesses.

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  • Free guide for the silly season
    21 December 2020

    It’s not called the silly season for nothing, which is why we have put together a free Social Events Action Guide to highlight the challenges with workplace gatherings.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 18 December 2020
    18 December 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a redundancy process both procedurally and substantively flawed, an employee unjustifiably dismissed for health reasons, awards ordered against an employer for failing to meet minimum employment standards a

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  • The top five things on employers wish lists for 2021
    18 December 2020

    Finding staff, the difficulties of dealing with immigration, the increasing costs of business and compliance, and uncertainty are the key issues facing business in the findings from the EMA’s recent annual member employer survey.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 11 December 2020
    11 December 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin penalty ordered despite steps taken to rectify compliance issues, employee dismissed on holiday and unjustified dismissal claim dismissed.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 04 December 2020
    4 December 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a kiwisaver entitlements sought, drug allegations lead to breaches, compliance order sought for record of settlement.

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  • NZPPA and EMA partner to support payrollers
    3 December 2020

    The EMA have partnered with the New Zealand Payroll Practitioners Association (NZPPA) to help upskill payrollers and give them a career pathway.

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  • Congestion charging could work if offset by productivity gains
    1 December 2020

    Introducing congestion charging to Auckland and other congested cities around New Zealand is a matter of when not if but the conversation with the road using public needs to start now, says the EMA.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 27 November 2020
    27 November 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a personal grievance raised outside of 90-day time frame, dismissal unjustified as management could have maintained relationship and holiday pay not paid.

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  • Premium Article
    More than 1700 attend EMA Spring Briefings
    27 November 2020

    New Zealand border issues, skills and staff shortages and new rules around compulsory Christmas shut-downs dominated discussions during the EMA’s recently completed Spring Briefing round.

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  • 2020 Annual Report
    24 November 2020

    This is the first time the EMA has offered an online report rather than a printed copy and provides the ability for more visually dynamic and easily navigable content.

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  • Life memberships honour long-term contribution
    24 November 2020

    Two former board members were presented with life memberships at the EMA Annual General Meeting (AGM) this afternoon to honour their contribution to guiding the member business organisation.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 20 November 2020
    20 November 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an employee awarded $25,000 after being constructively dismissed, no process followed in alleged theft and outstanding pay sought by employees in Employment Relations Authority.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 13 November 2020
    13 November 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a non-compliance to minimum entitlements, ulterior motives to an unjustified redundancy, breach of record of settlement.

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  • Northland poised for massive growth if infrastructure comes to fruition
    10 November 2020

    Northland is poised for a massive growth surge if the current infrastructure project pipeline comes to fruition. This is according to EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley, who has just been involved with the EMA’s Spring Briefing series for member busi

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 06 November 2020
    6 November 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a contractor status challenged, parties to consider mediation as ongoing employment and a temporary reinstatement claim which failed an overall justice test.

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  • Positive signs for SMEs from Prime Minister
    5 November 2020

    The EMA is pleased that small business loans will be extended for three years and interest-free loans for two years, and that the scheme would be extended for a broader range of purposes including innovation and technology advancement.

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus October 2020
    3 November 2020

    Businesses grow economies, not governments. It’s a stark statement, but I believe it is true. It was something we used to often reflect on when I was at ATeeD, considering what economic development strategies and interventions we could be making.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 30 October 2020
    30 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an ingenuine fixed term agreement issued to avoid a restructure, a dismissal deemed procedurally deficient, a determination for lost wages and feedback not heard during a restructuring process.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 30 October 2020
    30 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an ingenuine fixed term agreement issued to avoid a restructure, a dismissal deemed procedurally deficient, a determination for lost wages and feedback not heard during a restructuring process.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 23 October 2020
    23 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a paid parental leave application reversed, compliance orders sought, substantially and procedurally unjustified dismissal.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 23 October 2020
    23 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a paid parental leave application reversed , compliance orders sought, substantially and procedurally unjustified dismissal.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 16 October 2020
    16 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin employee challenged penalty for intellectual property breach, employee claims dismissed and employer breached drug and alcohol policy.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 16 October 2020
    16 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin employee challenged penalty for intellectual property breach, employee claims dismissed and employer breached drug and alcohol policy.

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  • Election Manifesto 2020
    13 October 2020

    The 2020 general election on October 17 is one of the most critical in New Zealand’s history. The economy and the businesses that drive our economic and social wellbeing have taken a beating that no-one saw coming just a few short months ago. The glo

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 9 October 2020
    9 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an unjustified dismissal upheld in the Employment Court, reasonable steps not taken in raising a personal grievance and a settlement agreement held to be full and final on all employment matters.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 2 October 2020
    2 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin Employment Court denied security for costs, trial period upheld and complaint to professional body allegedly breached settlement agreement. Plus, we bring you the latest employment-related news and statistics.

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  • Bulletin - Friday, 9 October 2020
    2 October 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin Employment Court denied security for costs, trial period upheld and complaint to professional body allegedly breached settlement agreement. Plus, we bring you the latest employment-related news and statistics.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 25 September 2020
    25 September 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a former employer and employee’s applications both accepted, a dismissal over the telephone held to be unjustified and a flawed redundancy process.

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  • Best policies for business post-election
    24 September 2020

    The EMA has today released its 2020 Election Manifesto detailing what it believes the next Government needs to do to create the economic and social conditions for the country’s post-COVID transformation.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 18 September 2020
    18 September 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a denied application for leave , breach of good faith obligation, unfair dismissal from flawed redundancy procedures.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 11 September 2020
    11 September 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin deduction clause in employment agreement upheld, application to join Director to proceedings granted and a restraint of trade clause unenforceable.

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  • Resident visa extension welcomed by business
    9 September 2020

    The EMA says the Government’s announcement extending resident visas gives certainty to skilled workers trying to return or get into the country and into work and is a relief for member businesses.

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  • Extra public holiday worth the cost?
    7 September 2020

    The EMA says the Government’s announcement today of an extra public holiday for Matariki from 2022 is unlikely to find favour with its business members.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 4 September 2020
    4 September 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an unjustified dismissal, a director ordered to pay monies to an employee and an unauthorised withholding of wages.

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  • Time to Transform
    2 September 2020

    Our team of five million has been congratulated many times for our success in dealing with the COVID-19 public health crisis.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 28 August 2020
    28 August 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a breach of Holidays Act 2003, failure to honour settlement terms and successful application for parties to join proceedings.

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  • Alert Level change on Sunday welcomed but border issue remains
    24 August 2020

    The EMA welcomes the Government’s announcement of Auckland returning to Alert Level 2 at midnight this Sunday, August 30, but says border control issues will still be a major hurdle for businesses in the next six days.

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  • Alert level changes should be confirmed if conditions allow
    23 August 2020

    The EMA is urging the Government to announce tomorrow that Auckland will be moving to Alert Level 2 at midnight next Wednesday, August 26, so that businesses can be prepared.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 21 August 2020
    21 August 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin unilateral changes to employment agreements during COVID-19 lockdown, employer assaulted employee, and contradictory terms deemed unconscionable.

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  • Regional border process must be better
    18 August 2020

    The EMA says a main concern of many of its member businesses from Taupo to Northland is getting through regional borders, with or without the right paperwork.

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  • Further extended Wage Subsidy Scheme good news for business
    17 August 2020

    The EMA says the Government’s further extension to the Wage Subsidy Scheme is good news for Auckland businesses who are unable to operate at all or are operating at reduced capacity at Alert Level 3.

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    Bulletin - Friday, 14 August 2020
    14 August 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a work trial that created an employment relationship, an unjustifiable dismissal following an improper redundancy process, a sham employment agreement and confusion surrounding a resignation prior to a crim

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  • Businesses urged to adapt to keep trading
    14 August 2020

    The Employers and Manufacturers Association is urging businesses to adapt to the restrictions of Alert Level 3 so they can stay open and keep trading

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    SMEs welcome additional Government support for employers
    9 August 2020

    The Government’s announcement today of the new Short Term Absences Payment (STAP) will be welcomed by both employers, employees and those self-employed, says the EMA.

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    Bulletin - Friday, 7 August 2020
    7 August 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a justified dismissal, compensation for unjustified disadvantage and an order for unpaid wages of a director shareholder.

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus August September 2020
    1 August 2020

    In this edition we include our 2020 Election Manifesto, look at our Member Survey feedback and look at the latest case law around COVID-19.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 31 July 2020
    31 July 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin a claim of breach in a refusal of parental leave application, compliance orders sought, incorrect redundancy lead to reinstatement.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 24 July 2020
    24 July 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin no employment relationship was found in a family arrangement, record of settlement breached by employee and penalty for suspension period not paid.

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  • 120 NZ businesses secure funding for fast-tracking global growth
    20 July 2020

    120 New Zealand businesses have been accepted into the Export Excelerator Programme designed to fast-track their global export plans.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 17 July 2020
    17 July 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a justified dismissal upheld by the Employment Court, flaws in a redundancy process breaching reasonable standards, applications for reinstatement and an unjustified dismissal.

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  • Randerson Report welcome alternative for resource management future
    17 July 2020

    The new Government in September must act quickly on the Randerson Review Panel’s recommendations on New Zealand’s resource management future if the country is to transform quickly after the impacts of COVID-19 says the EMA.

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  • Rail boost impactful for Auckland commuters
    17 July 2020

    The four-lane highway from Whangarei to Tauranga may be the eye-catching part of National’s new infrastructure plan, but it is arguably the significant rail upgrades and busway projects that could have the biggest impact on Aucklanders, says the EMA.

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  • Balance about right in Rebuilding Together budget
    15 July 2020

    The EMA says the Government's budget amidst COVID-19 was always going to have to strike the right balance between spending and debt levels to regenerate the economy for the benefit of all. Chief Executive Brett O'Riley believes it does provide a

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 10 July 2020
    10 July 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about an application for security of costs, an employer who acted fairly and reasonably during a restructure process, a compliance order granted and wage arrears granted for a variable hours role.

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  • ACC levy freeze relief for businesses
    6 July 2020

    The EMA is pleased with the Government’s announcement today that it is freezing ACC levies, paid by businesses, the self-employed and motorists to cover the costs of accidents, for two years.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 3 July 2020
    3 July 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin Employment Court redundancy process upheld, reinstatement of employment declined, remedies sought for breach of settlement.

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    BusinessPlus July 2020
    1 July 2020

    Our team of five million has been congratulated many times for our success in dealing with the COVID-19 public health crisis.

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  • Infrastructure spend good start for regions
    1 July 2020

    The shovel ready projects infrastructure programme will inject almost $1 billion dollars into the EMA’s region in the Upper North Island, and generate important employment opportunities.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 26 June 2020
    26 June 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin Record of Settlement intentionally breached, determination whether parties were owners or employees, bonding agreement not documented deemed void.

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  • Last chance for fully funded fast-track to global growth
    26 June 2020

    Exporters throughout New Zealand will have to get in quickly if they want to be one of 120 businesses to fast-track their global expansion plans through the Export Excelerator Programme.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 19 June 2020
    19 June 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin remedies sought for Covid-19 restructure, bullying allegations not properly investigated and wage arrears claim time barred.

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  • Fast-tracked consents good for recovery
    15 June 2020

    Fast-tracking consents for 11 significant infrastructure projects across the country is a good start aiding the recovery and will be particularly welcome in the Auckland region where a number of the projects are based.

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    Bulletin - Friday, 12 June 2020
    12 June 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin an Employment Court’s determination on status of employee, urgent facilitation application and claims for wages on a casual employee and more.

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  • Alert Level 1 a relief but many businesses will still struggle
    8 June 2020

    The EMA says its 7000 members and businesses across the country are relieved at the Government’s announcement of Alert Level 1 from midnight Wednesday but warns the hard work for the economy lies ahead.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 5 June 2020
    5 June 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin Holiday pay liability was transferred to another entity, aggressive performance management was a disadvantage to employee and an independent contracting relationship was imposed.

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus June 2020
    1 June 2020

    Recovery, it is the word of the day as businesses try to return to something like normality. For many in New Zealand this will feel like enough, but I think we must go further and grasp the opportunity to truly transform our economy with sustainable

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 29 May 2020
    29 May 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a proceeding that was not removed to the Employment Court, an employee protected under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987 and a disciplinary process deemed to be procedurally unfair.

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  • Alert Level 1 coming but too late for many
    25 May 2020

    The EMA is disappointed with the Government announcement today that the country will not move to Alert Level 1 until at least Monday, June 22, saying every day at the moment counts, particularly for struggling SMEs.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 22 May 2020
    22 May 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin an Employment Court’s narrow interpretation, loss of trust and confidence and breach of settlement agreement and more.

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  • Restructures and redundancies on the rise for businesses
    21 May 2020

    The EMA says rising inquiries to its AdviceLine and the announcement by Fletchers of about 1000 redundancies underlines the tough times businesses big and small continue to face under COVID-19 restrictions.

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  • Level 2 needed for business continuity
    8 May 2020

    The survival of businesses and people’s livelihoods needs to now be the focus for New Zealand, says the EMA.

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  • Fast-track consents necessary for Covid 19 recovery
    4 May 2020

    Fast-tracking resource consents for critical infrastructure and development projects is a pragmatic and welcome government response to assisting the Covid 19 recovery process says Resource Reform NZ* (RRNZ), a coalition of business and environmental

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus May 2020
    1 May 2020

    New Zealand business needs a new approach from Government to industry development, regulation, projects and procurement if the economy is going to start to recover.

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  • Time for economy to move to Alert Level 2
    1 May 2020

    The EMA says the economy needs a return to Alert Level 2 on May 12 to get business back to work and kick-start the country’s economic engine.

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  • Cashflow help welcomed by SMEs
    1 May 2020

    The EMA says its members will welcome the Government’s announcement of the Small Business Cashflow Loan Scheme, which will definitely help some survive.

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  • Support package welcomed but small business may need more
    15 April 2020

    The recent announcement by Government to extend further support small to medium enterprises is very welcome.

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  • New approach needed for economic recovery to begin
    13 April 2020

    New Zealand business needs a new approach from Government to regulation, projects and procurement if the economy is going to start to recover.

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  • Thousands seek expert business advice
    7 April 2020

    EMA Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says an early decision to open the organisation’s AdviceLine to all has meant thousands of businesses have been able to access expert advice and guidance as the Covid-19 lockdown hit the economy.

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  • Free web series to help businesses get through
    3 April 2020

    The EMA in partnership with ATEED and the Regional Business Partner Network has this week launched a free web series to help all businesses get through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus April 2020
    1 April 2020

    I have mentioned many times publicly during my tenure as EMA Chief Executive the positive challenge of leading an organisation with 134 years of history servicing the needs of businesses, and facilitating business as a community or eco-system that wo

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  • Business continuity amid COVID-19
    1 April 2020

    We’ve got the resources and information you need to manage your business through COVID-19, including latest updates and changes in Alert Levels, as well as support to help you get back on track.

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  • Postponement of minimum wage increase only option
    30 March 2020

    The EMA is urging the Government to postpone the planned significant increase to the minimum wage on Wednesday, as employers grapple with keeping their doors open amid COVID-19.

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  • EMA applauds extra measures to keep people in work
    27 March 2020

    The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the extra measures to keep people in work will be a huge relief to businesses across New Zealand, and have saved jobs.

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  • EMA urging businesses to hang in there
    26 March 2020

    The EMA is urging its members to hang in there as reality bites with the first day of the enforced four-week shut down of the country.

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  • Extra support for businesses struggling with Covid-19 impacts welcomed
    23 March 2020

    The Government’s massive boost to business support is welcome recognition of the impacts of Covid-19 on the economy as New Zealand faces a Level 4 lockdown says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 20 March 2020
    20 March 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin an unlawful suspension leads to unpaid wages, a peaceful protest leads to dismissal and more.

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  • Push the ‘go’ button on infrastructure plans
    19 March 2020

    The EMA is joining the call for Government and councils to push ahead and fast-track critical infrastructure projects throughout the upper North Island.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 13 March 2020
    13 March 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about a one wage payment made in six months, the Authority declining to strike out proceedings and employee conduct deemed as "sufficiently egregious".

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 06 March 2020
    6 March 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin ecstasy caused disheveled appearance, breaches of settlement agreements, penalty for unpaid wages, employer alleged disparaging comments. Plus, we bring you the latest employment-related news and statistics.

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  • Premium Article
    BusinessPlus Issue 178 March 2020
    1 March 2020

    In this edition we profile Milk New Zealand Dairy & Dawn Aerospace, look at why some start-ups survive and prosper and farewell Mike Moore.

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  • Premium Article
    Bulletin - Friday, 28 February 2020
    28 February 2020

    In this week's Employer Bulletin read about breaches of minimum entitlements by an employer, performance concerns not managed properly, an order for facilitation made after difficulties in concluding a collective and more.

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  • Annual Report 2019
    1 November 2019

    View our 2019 Annual report here!

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