Many Kiwis trust their pay is right — but mistakes and underpayments happen. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting what you’re owed.
1. Know Your Legal Rights
Minimum wage (Apr 2025): $23.15/hr (adult rate).
Annual leave: 4 weeks per year (or 8% if casual).
Public holidays: Time-and-a-half + day in lieu.
Sick leave: 10 days/year after 6 months.
All hours paid: Including prep, meetings, training, and work travel.
2. Check Your Payslip
Review every pay cycle: hours worked vs paid, pay rate, deductions, leave balances.
3. Compare to Market Rates
Use tools like Seek NZ, Hays, Trade Me Jobs to see if you’re competitive. Consider location, industry, and experience.
4. Look at the Full Package
Salary + KiwiSaver, bonuses, perks, flexibility, and career growth all count toward your total value.
5. Watch for Red Flags
No pay review in 18–24 months, unpaid overtime, job creep without pay rise, late wages, or unclear payslips.
6. Raise Concerns Professionally
Gather evidence, choose the right time, stay factual, and focus on solutions.
7. Know Your Support Options
HR, Unions, MBIE and employment representatives like us can help. Retaliation for speaking up is illegal.
Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Pay
Being paid fairly is a basic right – not a bonus. Whether it’s a small payroll error or a larger issue of systemic underpayment, taking the time to check and question your pay is part of protecting your own financial wellbeing. In today’s job market, knowledge is power.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, compare your pay, or advocate for better. You work hard – make sure you’re being rewarded accordingly.
Get in touch for a free consultation! You can fill out this form – or contact us at help@mahilaw.nz, or 0800 624 452
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