Working from home was once a stopgap — now it’s the norm for thousands of New Zealanders. Whether fully remote or hybrid, your legal rights don’t end at your home office.
So, do remote workers have the same protections as office workers? Yes — but how they’re applied looks a little different.
1. Your Agreement Still Applies
Your employment agreement is binding wherever you work. That means you’re still covered by New Zealand laws, including:
- Employment Relations Act 2000
- Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
- Minimum Wage Act 1983
- Holidays Act 2003
If remote work is ongoing, get it formalised in writing to avoid confusion over hours, costs, and expectations.
2. Pay and Benefits Stay the Same
Remote work doesn’t mean reduced entitlements. You’re still owed:
- Agreed pay rates or salary
- Sick, annual, and parental leave
- KiwiSaver contributions
- Rest and meal breaks
3. Health and Safety at Home
Your employer is still responsible for your wellbeing, even if you work from your lounge. They must:
- Provide safe workstation guidance
- Manage risks
- Support mental health and prevent overwork
You’re also expected to take reasonable care and report hazards.
4. Hours and Overtime Rules Apply
Being remote doesn’t mean being “always on.” Your contract hours and break entitlements still stand. If workloads shift or become excessive, raise it early with your manager.
5. Privacy and Monitoring
Employers may monitor work activity on company systems, but they must:
- Inform you of what’s monitored and why
- Follow the Privacy Act 2020
- Avoid intrusive or secret surveillance
6. Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination
Misconduct can happen online too — through exclusion, messaging, or unfair treatment. Employers are still responsible for preventing and addressing it. If something feels wrong, speak up.
7. Changing Your Work Arrangement
Under NZ’s Flexible Working Arrangements law, you can request:
- Remote work part- or full-time
- Adjusted hours or start/finish times
- A return to the office if you prefer
Employers must respond within a month and can only refuse on genuine business grounds.
8. Where to Get Help
If your rights aren’t upheld, support is available:
- Employment NZ – Free advice
- MBIE Mediation – Dispute resolution
- Unions or advocates – Representation
- Citizens Advice Bureau – General guidance
Final Thoughts
Remote work has changed where we log in, but not what we’re entitled to. Pay, safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment still apply — whether you’re at a desk in town or your kitchen bench.
If something doesn’t feel right, ask, check, and protect your rights.
Need Help Navigating Retaliation at Work?
If you’re facing backlash for speaking up, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Mahi Law, we help employees understand their rights, navigate workplace issues, and make confident decisions.
📌 Reach out for a free consultation → Mahi Law – Your Trusted Employment Relations Specialists
📱 Call 0800 624 452
